5 Dishes to not miss out on when in Rome
A Culinary Journey Through Rome: Discovering the Eternal City's Finest Dishes
Rome, the Eternal City, is not just a treasure trove of ancient history and art; it's also a paradise for food lovers. With a rich culinary tradition that dates back centuries, the city offers an array of delectable dishes that capture the essence of Roman cuisine. At Orexi, we believe that experiencing the best of Rome means indulging in its iconic dishes at the finest dining venues. Here’s a guide to savouring Rome’s must-try dishes, each crafted to perfection at some of the city’s most recommended eateries.
Maritozzo: A Sweet Start to Your Day
Begin your Roman culinary adventure with a maritozzo, a delightful sweet bun filled with luscious whipped cream. This breakfast treat is a testament to the city’s love for artisanal pastries.
Where to Try It: Pasticcieria Regoli
Located in the heart of Rome, Pasticcieria Regoli has been a staple for pastry lovers since 1916. Renowned for its high-quality ingredients and traditional methods, Regoli’s maritozzo is a must-try. The soft, slightly sweet bun, filled to the brim with fresh, velvety cream, is the perfect way to start your day in Rome. The family-run patisserie prides itself on its artisanal approach, ensuring each bite is a taste of perfection.
Tonnarelli Cacio e Pepe: A Classic Roman Dish
No trip to Rome is complete without trying tonnarelli cacio e pepe, a simple yet incredibly flavourful pasta dish. Made with just three ingredients—pecorino cheese, black pepper, and fresh egg pasta—this dish is a true embodiment of Roman culinary ingenuity.
Where to Try It: Felice a Testaccio
For an authentic cacio e pepe experience, head to Felice a Testaccio. This beloved restaurant has been serving locals and tourists alike since 1936. At Felice, the pasta is mixed at your table, allowing you to witness the magic of this dish coming together. The creamy sauce, perfectly balanced with the sharpness of pecorino and the heat of black pepper, coats the tonnarelli beautifully, making each bite a celebration of Roman flavours.
Supplì al Telefono: A Delightful Snack
Supplì al telefono are deep-fried rice balls filled with mozzarella, which stretches like a telephone wire when bitten into. These crispy, cheesy, moreish delights are a favourite street food in Rome.
Where to Try It: Supplizio
For some of the best supplì in Rome, visit Supplizio. This charming eatery combines sophistication with authenticity, offering a range of traditional Roman snacks. The supplì here are perfectly crispy on the outside, with a gooey, cheesy center that oozes deliciousness. Supplizio’s dedication to quality and tradition ensures that each supplì is a bite of Roman culinary heritage.
Rigatoni alla Carbonara: The Quintessential Roman Pasta
Dive into rigatoni alla carbonara, a dish that epitomises the richness of Roman cuisine. Made with eggs, pecorino cheese, guanciale (cured pork cheek), and black pepper, this pasta dish is a creamy, savoury delight.
Where to Try It: Roscioli Salumeria
Roscioli Salumeria is the place to savour an exceptional carbonara. This renowned establishment seamlessly blends traditional recipes with high-end dining. The rigatoni alla carbonara at Roscioli is perfectly cooked and coated in a creamy sauce, with the guanciale adding a delightful crunch and depth of flavour. Dining at Roscioli is not just about the food; it’s about experiencing the essence of Roman culinary tradition in a refined setting.
Bucatini all’Amatriciana: A Flavourful Experience
Bucatini all’amatriciana is another Roman classic that you cannot miss. This dish features bucatini pasta tossed in a rich tomato sauce with guanciale and pecorino cheese.
Where to Try It: Antica Pesa
For an elegant take on this traditional dish, visit Antica Pesa in Trastevere. Established in 1922, this historic restaurant offers a refined dining experience in a beautiful, atmospheric setting. The bucatini all’amatriciana at Antica Pesa is a perfect blend of tangy tomato sauce, salty pecorino, and rich guanciale. The restaurant’s commitment to using high-quality, locally-sourced ingredients shines through in every bite.
Rome’s culinary landscape is as rich and diverse as its history. Each of these dishes offers a unique glimpse into the flavours that define Roman cuisine. At Órexi, we believe that experiencing these iconic dishes at the city’s finest dining venues is an essential part of any visit to Rome. Whether you're starting your day with a sweet maritozzo or indulging in a delightful pasta dish, Rome’s culinary treasures are sure to leave a lasting impression. Buon appetito!
