When it comes to must-have food to eat in Italy, pizza and pasta in Rome always top the list. So, I know you’re going to be searching for the best places to eat in Rome and I’m going to make it nice and easy for you. Whether they’re down ancient cobbled streets or just around the corner from the Colosseum, here are some of the best restaurants to eat pizza and pasta in Rome.
Naumachia Ristorante
One of the best restaurants near the Colosseum and just one minute from the beautiful Basilica of San Clemente al Laterano, Naumachia Ristorante is the place to go for pasta in Rome. On my most recent trip to Rome, I went there two days in a row because I was loving it so much.
My favorite pasta in Rome is their homemade fettuccine with tomato sauce, basil, and topped with Italian cheeses. Pair it with a glass of wine and a bruschetta starter for a perfect lunch near the Colosseum.
Beyond pasta, this Rome restaurant also serves a variety of pizzas and Italian meat and seafood dishes. However, as a vegetarian, I cannot attest to the latter.
Head here for lunch after exploring the Roman Forum and Colosseum!
Non c’è trippa pe’ gatti
This Roman restaurant is near Basilica Papale di Santa Maria Maggiore, and they’re serving up some delicious pizza! All pizzas at Non c’è trippa pe’ gatti are Roman style. I had the marinara pizza with oregano, tomato, and garlic and it was so simple yet mega tasty. I paired it with an Italian red wine and it hit the spot. Apparently pizza is better served with beer but I’m not a beer girl these days, so wine was the move.
They have several other Roman pizza options like the classic margherita, funghi pizza, and capricciosa pizza with tomato sauce, artichokes, ham, eggs, mushrooms, and olives.
Plus, the restaurant is close to the Colosseum, just an 11 minute walk away.
Gli Angeletti
For amazing traditional pastas in a cozy dining terrace in Rome, Gli Angeletti is a must! Not only do they serve delicious dark red Chianti wine (I love), but they have great food and a large menu suitable for vegetarians, vegans, and meat eaters alike. It’s one of the best places for dinner in Rome.
I would recommend the Trofie with garlic, basil, green beans, potatoes and Pecorino cheese for vegetarians. It’s nourishing and very flavorful. Beyond pasta, they have small starts, seafood mains, and risotto. It’s a great pasta restaurant in Rome for soaking up the lively Roman atmosphere, while enjoying a variety of Roman and Italian dishes and wines.
Finish up your meal with their large portion of tiramisu for a complete Italian dining experience!
Find this restaurant in Rome near the Colosseum, Roman Forum, and Basilica di San Pietro in Vincoli.
See my guide on the best things to do in Rome, Italy for more inside tips!
Bonus: Coffee at Trecaffè
Not a pizza or pasta restaurant by any means, but this unassuming cafe is the perfect spot to have a macchiato or cappuccino. The small place may not look like much, but I had the BEST coffee here. You’ll also find sandwiches and pastries here, so it’s a great option for Italian breakfast or pick-me-up. The Trecaffè coffee shop is near the Pantheon and many of the loveliest piazzas.
