Dear travelers,
Truly yours,
The Creation of Us
After a full day of exploring Rome, you definitely deserve some delicious food to recharge. After all, you’re in one of the best cities in the world for food lovers. It would be a shame to visit Rome without tasting some of the local delicacies. Here are the must-try dishes.
Cacio e Pepe
Let’s start with the most famous Roman pasta dish: Cacio e Pepe. Translating to “cheese and pepper,” this simple dish consists of spaghetti, Pecorino Romano cheese, and black pepper. The creamy, peppery sauce sticks to every piece of pasta, giving it a flavor that’s both simple and elegant. For the best Cacio e Pepe, head to Da Felice in Testaccio, a neighborhood known for its authentic Roman cuisine.Carbonara
Another iconic Roman pasta, Carbonara is a must-try. Made with eggs, Pecorino Romano cheese, guanciale (cured pork cheek), and black pepper. The secret to a perfect Carbonara is in the technique: the eggs should be added off the heat to avoid scrambling, creating a silky sauce that coats the pasta. Try an exceptional Carbonara at Roscioli, a gourmet deli and restaurant in the heart of Rome, or at Osteria da Fortunata, you can even see how they make the fresh pasta. Similar pasta dishes to carbonara include: matriciana (tomato, guanciale, and pecorino) and Gricia (similar to Carbonara but without egg).
Roman Porchetta
For meat lovers, Roman Porchetta is a must-try. This slow-roasted pork is seasoned with garlic, rosemary, and wild fennel, resulting in juicy, flavorful meat with crispy skin. Enjoy it sliced and served in a sandwich or as a main course, accompanied by roasted vegetables, potatoes, or a simple salad.
Supplì
Rome’s answer to the arancini of Sicily. Supplì are deep-fried rice balls typically stuffed with mozzarella and ragù (meat sauce). Crispy on the outside and soft on the inside, they are the perfect street food snack. Enjoy these tasty treats at Supplì Roma in Trastevere, a legendary spot known for its variations.
Espresso and Cornetto
Start your mornings like a true Roman with a shot of espresso and a Cornetto, Italy’s answer to the croissant. Whether plain or filled with jam or Nutella, I am sure you will love it.
Maritozzo
For a sweet treat, try a Maritozzo. This soft, sweet bun is often filled with whipped cream and sometimes flavored with citrus zest. It’s perfect for breakfast or a snack. Head to Pasticceria Regoli, one of the oldest pastry shops in Rome, for a taste of this delight.
Tiramisù
Though not originally Roman (it’s from Treviso), tiramisù is widely enjoyed in Rome. Close to the Spanish Steps, Pompi has been making this coffee-flavored dessert since 1960. Whether you pick classic, pistachio, or strawberry, each bite is a delicious mix of creamy mascarpone, espresso-soaked ladyfingers, and cocoa.
Gelato
No trip to Rome is complete without gelato. Do you know that not every ice cream is gelato? Read about the difference here. Some must-visit places:- Gelateria del Teatro – Known for its artisanal approach and unique flavors like lavender and honey.
- Giolitti – One of Rome’s oldest gelaterias, famous for its classic flavors and rich texture.
- Fatamorgana – Offers a wide variety of creative and natural flavors, with a focus on high-quality ingredients.
- Venchi – A chocolate lover’s paradise, also serving delicious gelato.
- La Romana – Known for its creamy gelato and beautiful presentation.

Buon appetito!