Rome, the eternal city, is not only famous for its ancient ruins and picturesque streets but also for its delectable cuisine. When it comes to lunch, Romans take their time to savor their meals and enjoy the company of friends and family.
So, what do people eat for lunch in Rome? Let’s dive into the culinary delights of the Eternal City.
Antipasti – The Appetizers
Antipasti, meaning “before the meal,” are small bites that tantalize your taste buds and prepare you for the main course. In Rome, you can find a variety of antipasti options.
One popular choice is bruschetta, toasted bread topped with fresh tomatoes, garlic, and basil. Another favorite is supplì, deep-fried rice balls filled with cheese and ragù sauce.
Pasta – The Main Course
No Roman lunch would be complete without indulging in a plate of pasta. Italians take pride in their pasta dishes, and Rome has some iconic options.
One classic choice is spaghetti alla carbonara. This creamy dish consists of pasta tossed with eggs, pecorino cheese, guanciale (cured pork cheek), and black pepper. Another beloved option is cacio e pepe, which features spaghetti coated in a rich sauce made from pecorino cheese and black pepper.
Secondi Piatti – The Second Courses
After enjoying a satisfying plate of pasta, Romans typically move on to their secondi piatti. These are heartier dishes that often include meat or fish.
A popular choice is abbacchio alla romana, which is lamb cooked with garlic, rosemary, and white wine. If you prefer seafood, grilled sea bass or branzino is a delightful option.
Contorni – The Side Dishes
Accompanying the main course are contorni, or side dishes, that add an extra layer of flavor to the meal. A classic Roman contorno is carciofi alla romana, artichokes cooked with garlic, mint, and olive oil until they become tender and flavorful. Another popular choice is puntarelle, a salad made from a type of chicory dressed with anchovy sauce.
Dolci – The Sweet Endings
To conclude the meal on a sweet note, Romans enjoy a variety of delightful desserts. One iconic choice is tiramisu, layers of coffee-soaked ladyfingers and creamy mascarpone cheese dusted with cocoa powder. If you’re craving something lighter, try panna cotta, a silky-smooth dessert made from cooked cream and gelatin.
Caffè – The Coffee Ritual
No Italian meal is complete without a cup of coffee. Romans take their coffee seriously and often end their lunch with an espresso or cappuccino. Soak in the lively atmosphere at a local café as you sip on your aromatic cup of coffee.
In Conclusion
Lunchtime in Rome is an experience filled with mouthwatering dishes that reflect the city’s rich culinary heritage. From antipasti to dolci, each course offers a unique taste of Roman cuisine. So, when in Rome, be sure to indulge in these traditional lunchtime delights and embrace the slow-paced Italian dining culture.
- Antipasti – bruschetta, supplì
- Pasta – spaghetti alla carbonara, cacio e pepe
- Secondi Piatti – abbacchio alla romana, grilled sea bass
- Contorni – carciofi alla romana, puntarelle
- Dolci – tiramisu, panna cotta
- Caffè – espresso, cappuccino
Now that you know what people eat for lunch in Rome, it’s time to plan your culinary adventure and discover the flavors that make this city a food lover’s paradise. Buon appetito!