What Is the Most Popular Food in Rome?

By Alice Nichols

When it comes to food, Rome is a city that never fails to tantalize taste buds with its rich culinary heritage. From traditional pasta dishes to mouthwatering pizzas, the Eternal City offers a diverse range of flavors that have captivated the hearts (and stomachs!)

of locals and tourists alike. So, what is the most popular food in Rome? Let’s dive in and explore!

Roman Cuisine: A Gastronomic Delight

Roman cuisine is renowned for its simplicity and emphasis on fresh ingredients. The city’s traditional dishes are often rooted in centuries-old recipes, passed down through generations. From street food to fine dining, there is something for everyone in Rome.

Pasta: The Pride of Rome

Pasta holds a special place in Roman cuisine. One cannot talk about Roman food without mentioning classics like carbonara and cacio e pepe. These delectable pasta dishes, made with eggs, pecorino cheese, guanciale (cured pork cheek), and black pepper, perfectly represent the essence of Roman cooking.

Rome is also known for its amatriciana, a tomato-based sauce with guanciale and pecorino cheese. This combination creates a harmonious blend of flavors that will leave you craving more!

Pizza: A Slice of Heaven

The influence of Naples can be felt strongly in Rome when it comes to pizza. Although Naples takes credit for inventing this beloved dish, Romans have embraced it wholeheartedly.

A typical Roman pizza features a thin and crispy crust topped with simple yet delicious combinations such as margherita (tomato sauce, mozzarella cheese, and basil) and marinara (tomato sauce, garlic, oregano, and olive oil). The sheer variety of toppings available in Rome ensures that there is a pizza for every palate.

Supplì: Deep-Fried Delight

When strolling around Rome, keep an eye out for supplì. These crispy rice balls, filled with ragù (meat sauce), mozzarella cheese, and sometimes peas, are a popular street food snack. Biting into a hot supplì and experiencing the burst of flavors is a must-try experience in Rome.

The Roman Food Experience

A visit to Rome is incomplete without indulging in the culinary delights this city has to offer. Whether you choose to dine at a fancy restaurant or savor street food while exploring the vibrant neighborhoods, the flavors of Rome will leave an everlasting impression.

To summarize, pasta dishes like carbonara and cacio e pepe, along with classic Roman-style pizza and supplì, are among the most popular foods in Rome. Don’t miss the opportunity to immerse yourself in the rich gastronomic culture of this enchanting city!