The Best Pasta Restaurants in Rome

UPDATED JULY 2024
By Megan Hills

What else were you going to eat in Italy? Here's the best pasta restaurants in Rome

Nothing compares to a steaming dish of home-cooked Italian pasta and luckily, there's a number of fantastic places to order some in Rome. The city's full of options (and recipes), for every creamy carbonara at a family trattoria, there's a sea urchin pasta across the way at a modern bistro. Check out some of the best pasta restaurants in Rome below.

Uma legítima pasta a carbonara italiana, al dente e queijo pecorino.

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Da Danilo

Nothing beats homemade food and the adage follows in Italy. Da Danilo, a trattoria owned by a mother-son duo, whip up some of the best pasta in the capital and as such are always in high demand. Specialising in carbonara, Rome's signature dish, as well as other simple comforts like cacio e pepe, Da Danilo's a perfect place for authentic classics. Via Petrarca, 13, 00185 Roma, Italy http://www.trattoriadadanilo.com

When in Roma.... My home away from home @fabianaf1979

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Armando al Pantheon

After roaming the iconic Pantheon, head over to the nearby Armando al Pantheon for a meal that will really hit the spot. Despite being surrounded by subpar tourist trap restaurants, the food is next level with favourites including the spicy and garlicky Spaghetti Aglio, Olio e Peproncino as well Spaghetti alla Gricia, a hearty dish comprising of Pecorino Romano cheese, guanciale and black pepper. Salita dei Crescenzi, 31, 00186 Roma, Italy http://armandoalpantheon.it

Roscioli

Whether you're tucking into peppery Cacio e Pepe or buttery Rigatoni Burro e Parmigiano, Roscioli is a pasta restaurant that always delights. These chefs know and prioritise quality ingredients, as in a previous life Roscioli was once a fine foods boutique, and elevate their dishes beyond the norm. They've also got a killer wine list if you're looking for something to wash it all down with. Via dei Giubbonari, 21/22, 00186 Roma, Italy http://www.salumeriaroscioli.com/restaurant

Grandissimo spaghetto con le vongole del lago di Caprolace. #lagodicaprolace #solouva #arcariedanesi #roma #ilsanlorenzo

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Il Sanlorenzo

There's a time and place for cheesy pasta and a meal at Il Sanlorenzo isn't it. Specialising in seafood pastas, Il Sanlorenzo is a welcome change from the carbonaras of the city. The menu tends to change depending on the season and what seafood is freshest, but you can expect to see razor clams, octopi, prawns and sea urchin topping their pastas. Via dei Chiavari, 4/5, 00186 Roma, Italy http://www.ilsanlorenzo.it

Lasagne

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La Tavernaccia da Bruno

This family-run trattoria is located on the outskirts of the effortlessly hipster Trastevere neighbourhood and serves up quality Roman pasta classics, as well as a handful from Umbria where the owner hails from. The standout dish here is the lasagna, made with layers and layers of freshly made pasta and bechamel sauce baked in their wood-fired oven. Via Giovanni da Castel Bolognese, 63, 00153 Roma, Italy http://www.latavernacciaroma.com

Osteria Bonelli

While it's not the fanciest joint on the list, Osteria Bonelli's hearty pasta recipes give any restaurant a run for their money and they're also luckily a fraction of the price. With seasonal dishes as well as the classics, the osteria's recipes attract a diverse crowd of locals and tourists. If you're feeling up to it, they also have a few quinto quarto - or offal - dishes worth the culinary adventure. Viale dell'Acquedotto Alessandrino, 172/174, 00176 Roma, Italy https://www.facebook.com/Osteria-Bonelli-427233444051834
Megan Hills
Rome Travel Expert

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Secret Parks in Rome

Rome is a-flurry with people, sounds and visual delights so it’s not surprising that a visit can leave your senses a bit assaulted. Although Rome’s historically famous for its ancient Empire whose ruins you can’t escape, dotted all around the city, from the impressive Coliseum to the looming dome of St Peter’s Basilica, the city also has some hidden areas to explore – and some only the locals know. So alongside these must-see monuments, take some time-out to enjoy a bit of rest and relaxation in some of Rome’s greenest of oases. In no particular order, our favourite verdant spaces are as follows... Villa Borghese There’s no escaping this little pocket of greenery which sits in the middle of the city, coincidentally in the shape of a heart. Villa Borghese is one of the most popular spots for love-struck teenagers and elderly veterans alike and is a handy resource for a quiet break. With 148 acres to explore, its green meadows and manicured lawns are there to host picnics and Frisbee games, as well as sooth sore feet and unclutter busy minds. In the park are elegant temples and classic buildings, inspired by English architecture, which provide a stunning backdrop and perfect photo opportunity. Within walking distance from most major attractions, you can find it at the top of the Piazza del Poplo – where the Pincio will offer you a great viewpoint over the city, too – and is a safe option for those travelling with a family as there are plenty of toy-selling kiosks and ice cream vendors at hand! Villa Aldobrandini For something a bit more romantic and private, and dare we say it, more adult (sorry kids), Villa Aldobrandini is a tiny stamp sized garden nestled between the Trevi Fountain and Coliseum, up a hill to the East of the Vittorio Emmaneuel monument. Tree lined paths and handy benches make it the perfect stop-off if you’ve been exploring the Roman Forum and are working your way back into the city. If you walk to the very edge, you can overlook the Wedding Cake, the Roman's name for the big white Vittorio Emmanuele, and watch the world go by underneath your feet. Giardino delle Arance If secrecy and seclusion are your thing then the Giardino delle Arance, or Orange Garden to you and me, is just the one. A gorgeous private garden for you and your loved one to explore, or for your kids to pick an orange or two off the trees (there are plenty to go round), it’s an urban oasis and promises spectacular views over the city. Along the banks of the Tiber, to the left of Circus Maximus and the Aventine Hill, you can see the dome of St Peter’s Basilica and the terracotta topped buildings that stretch across the Eternal City. If you’re after a view to remember, go at dusk when you can see the city illuminate under nightfall and you’re guaranteed a bit of calm as the park is at its quietest. Just across the river is Trastevere, the perfect place to find a delicious local meal to finish off your evening in true Roman style. Villa Ada Villa Ada is great escape from the hustle and bustle of the city as it lies slightly out of the centre to the northeast. Best reached by local buses, it’s a huge expanse of green with windy paths through its impressive 450 acres and peaks at a historical summit, Monte Antenne. With a picturesque lake, you’d never think you were in Rome as Villa Ada transports you into a rural, exotic setting with squawking parrots in the trees, bright flowers in bloom and thick grassy fields. A great park if you’re in Rome for a few days and have time to spare out of your busy sightseeing itinerary, and great if you have kids – let them run wild and free and expend all their energy while you sit back and relax with a book. Villa Doria Pamphilj As Rome’s largest landscaped park, Villa Doria Pamphilj is actually the name of the monumental seventeenth century villa (or palace) whose landscaped meadows stretch for over 1.8km2. Up on the Janiculum, it was nicknamed the Bel Respiro, or beautiful breath, thanks to the spectacular views from its post up high on the hill. Much like Villa Borghese this park drew heavily on the classical English influences and is reminiscent of 18th century gardens in Stowe and Stourhead. So if you’re an Anglophile and know your classic architecture, this park has your name on it, not to mention for the Sound of Music qualities. That is of course substituting the Alps for a Mediterranean vista and ancient ruins. With the OMNIA Vatican & Rome Card you can save both time and money and make your trip to Rome that extra bit easier. With Fast Track Entry and free admission into Rome's most popular sights, as well as a 3 day travelcard included, it's your all-inclusive ticket to a stress-free vacation. Find out more, here...
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1 Day Itinerary: the best of Rome

Are you counting down the days until your anticipated arrival? Are you devouring information about the Eternal City like your life depends on it? Well, we’ve made it simple: we’ve come up with the perfect 1 day itinerary so if you dedicate just 24 hours to sightseeing and experiencing Rome by this quick-fire bucket list then you can rest assured that you will leave satisfied. Make sure you've had a hearty breakfast and got some good walking shoes on before you head to the cobbled streets... Morning: Head straight to Rome’s oldest and longest standing landmark, the Colisseum, and start your day on a high. This near 2000 year old building has seen its fair share of history and is one of the best places to learn about the importance of the Roman culture. From gladiator fights to miniature naval races (yes, who knew!) this building has been through it all – even destructive earthquakes that are partly to blame for its half crumbled state. Alongside the Colisseum is the impressive expanse of the Roman Forum where you can walk along the ancient cobbled streets and up the Palatine Hill to survey what used to be the hub of all Roman activity. As an old marketplace, the Roman Forum is one of the most transforming areas in Rome and you can really send yourself back in time as you walk along the marble pillars and ancient ruins. Mid-morning: Past the Vittorio Emmanuele monument (or the wedding cake as the Romans call it) and further into town you’ll get to another one of Rome’s most iconic buildings, the Pantheon. This building is free to enter and it will take your breath away as you marvel at the unique concept and religious history behind it. Built as a temple to the ancient Roman gods in 126AD it is one of the best preserved buildings in Rome and has been in constant use since the 7th century – and to this day it’s a place of worship and even marriage! It’s large opening, or oculus, is exactly 43m from the floor, and 43m in diameter – a mathematical feat and with no cover or window, it remains open all day, every day. Ever wondered what happens when it rains? There’s a small drainage system implanted into the mosaic flooring below. Definitely a sight to behold, and well worth a visit even if it rains to see it with your own eyes! Lunch: Next up are the Spanish Steps and the Trevi Fountain so wind your way through the cobbled streets of bustling central Rome and just follow the crowds towards this resplendent urban oasis. Built in 1732 this Baroque masterpiece is one of Rome’s most picture-perfect landmarks with its turquoise water and contrasting marble façade. Designed by Bernini, Nicola Salvi and Pietro Bracci it is Rome’s largest baroque fountain – and without a doubt the most impressive. Legend has it if you throw a coin into the fountain you are guaranteed a return to the city. Did you know that as a prank, someone once added red food colouring into the water and turned the fountain blood red? Needless to say it didn’t go down very well with the state officials... A stone’s throw from the Trevi Fountain are the Spanish Steps – which boast the widest staircase in Europe and some say is one of Rome’s most romantic spots. Take a small picnic or find a café and get a take away panino and proper Italian coffee and go and sit on the steps to recharge and take in your surroundings. At the top of the steps is a viewing point where you can overlook the terracotta roofs of Rome and survey the stunning historic scene. Afternoon: Walk off lunch and stroll through the verdant Villa Borghese park, one of the most relaxing places in Rome. This heart shaped park is a quiet refuge from the vivacious Roman life, perfect if you want a bit of R&R. Within the landscaped lawns, sprawling greens and classic buildings is one of Rome’s best galleries, Borghese Gallery. A must-see if you’re an art buff and love a bit of Renaissance culture – and even if you’re not, there’s really nice restaurant where you can stop for a refreshing glass of wine should you need a pick-me-up. Mid-afternoon: Continuing in the realm of art appreciation, take it up a notch and head to St Peter’s Basilica, a masterpiece in itself, and it’s the perfect way to end your afternoon. The colonnade-lined square and the impressive marble façade doesn’t even measure up to what is beyond the huge bronze Holy Doors. Step inside this huge cathedral and be mesmerised by the sheer scale of gilt religious decoration, such as Bernini’s Renaissance architecture and the 30m high bronze pavilion, the Baldacchino. If you’re after a view to remember, you must go up into the Dome where you will get breathtaking views all across the city and into the Vatican. Evening: After that exhausting day, what better way than to reward yourself with good local cuisine and Italian wine. Walk along the Lungo Tevere to Trastevere one of Rome’s most trendy districts and chose from a selection of pizzerias to gelaterias. Take a seat in one of the tables in the piazza where you can watch the world go by and reflect upon the Rome you’ve just discovered! With the OMNIA Vatican & Rome Card you can visit St Peter’s Basilica with a free audio guide and get VIP fast track entry to skip the long queues – a huge advantage in the summer! The Colisseum, Roman Forum & Palatine Hill are also included in the Roma Pass package and you can visit them as two out of your five free entitled entries. Want to find out more about how you can make your trip to Rome that extra bit easier? Click here.
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How well do you know these Ancient Rome Facts?

Ancient Rome facts Do you want to learn a little more about the Eternal City and its origins? Then look no further than this handy pop quiz full of ancient Rome facts. 1. Rome was founded by twin brothers Twins Romulus and Remus were abandoned by their mother at birth, but discovered by a lone she-wolf who nursed them. They then grew up to found a city, but had a fatal disagreement over who would rule. Romulus killed Remus in the fight and named Rome after himself. You can find the original bronze statue Capitoline Wolf, of the wolf suckling the brothers, inside the Capitoline Museums. 2. The Colosseum was once filled with water The legendary stadium served as the location for gladiator combats, animal hunts and even... naval battles. That’s right, great ships were built and ‘sailed’ out into the flooded Colosseum where theatrical battles would be held, with hundreds of actors and live animals including alligators in the water! 3. The hills of ancient Rome influenced the language of today Capitoline Hill, the location of political power in Ancient Rome is responsible for the word ‘capital’ we use today. Not only that, but neighboring Palatine Hill, home to temples, monuments and religious structures gave way to the word ‘palace’. 4. Rome is the only city with a whole country inside it Vatican City, the smallest nation in the world, lies wholly inside Rome, taking up just 44 hectares. Governed by the Pope this tiny city has a population of just over 800, its own army, its own currency and its own post office! 5. Ancient Rome was home to the largest stadium ever Circo Maximo was a vast chariot racing stadium. It was so big almost 3 Colosseums could fit inside. On race days, it could welcome 250,000 spectators - the largest stadiums of today cannot even hold half that number! 6. Romans are the inventors of health spas The Romans took bath time very seriously. The word ‘spa’ comes from the Latin term Sana Per Acquam (health through water) and ancient bathhouses are still enjoyed to this day. Check out the ruins of the Baths of Caracalla to get an idea of how the Romans would get clean and unwind. 7. St Peter’s Basilica took 120 years to build To this day, St. Peter’s Basilica is the world’s largest church and the center of Roman Catholicism. With its opulent decorations and stunning vaulted ceilings, is it any wonder construction took so long to complete? In fact, five different architects took the helm during this magnificent structure’s build. 8. Archangel Michel appeared over the city to signal the end of the plague Yep, Archangel Michel is said to have appeared above the citadel sheathing his sword as a sign that the Justinian plague of 590 had ended. Formerly known as the Mausoleum of Hadrian, the building was renamed Castel Sant’Angelo to honor this event. Pick up an Omnia Rome and Vatican pass and make great savings on attraction admission. You can use your pass to gain free entry to Rome and Vatican City’s top attractions, as well as discounted entry to lots more museums, landmarks and famous locations.
Samuel Ford

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