Must-try street food in Rome
Rome’s street food culture is as lively and rich as its history, offering a variety of delicious, budget-friendly snacks perfect for enjoying on the go. Whether you’re looking for a quick bite between sightseeing or want to experience authentic flavors, Rome’s street food will not disappoint. Here’s a guide to some of the must-try Roman snacks and where to find the best versions in the city.
1. Supplì – The Roman Rice Ball Delight
Supplì, a classic Roman street food, is a deep-fried rice ball filled with mozzarella cheese. Often compared to Sicily’s arancini, supplì has a unique Roman twist, featuring tomato sauce in the rice and a gooey, melted cheese center. Biting into a warm supplì reveals the perfect blend of crispy breading and cheesy filling – a true comfort food!
- Where to Try It: Head to I Supplì in Trastevere or Supplizio near Campo de’ Fiori for some of the best supplì in Rome. These places specialize in artisanal versions, offering the perfect texture and flavor balance.
2. Pizza al Taglio – Pizza by the Slice, Roman Style
Unlike traditional round pizzas, pizza al taglio (pizza by the slice) is baked in rectangular trays and cut to order, letting you choose the amount you’d like. Pizza al taglio comes in a variety of flavors, from classic margherita to unique combinations with toppings like zucchini blossoms, anchovies, and mortadella. The crust is light and crispy, making it ideal for a quick snack or a full meal.
- Where to Try It: Pizzarium near the Vatican is a top spot for pizza al taglio, known for its innovative toppings and fresh ingredients. Another favorite is Antico Forno Roscioli, where you can try traditional Roman flavors crafted with high-quality ingredients.
3. Trapizzino – A Modern Roman Street Food
Trapizzino is a newer addition to Rome’s street food scene, but it has quickly become a local favorite. It’s essentially a pizza pocket filled with classic Italian stews and fillings like chicken cacciatore, meatballs, or eggplant parmesan. Created by a Roman chef, trapizzino combines the fluffy texture of pizza dough with hearty fillings, resulting in a satisfying snack or meal.
- Where to Try It: Visit Trapizzino in Trastevere or the Testaccio neighborhood, where the original trapizzino was invented. These locations offer a variety of fillings, each one as delicious as the last.
4. Porchetta – Savory Roasted Pork
For meat lovers, porchetta is a must-try. This savory, herb-stuffed, and slow-roasted pork is sliced thin and often served on a sandwich. The skin is crispy, the meat juicy, and the flavor intensely aromatic, thanks to rosemary, garlic, and other herbs. Porchetta is a popular street food across Italy, but Roman porchetta has a special reputation.
- Where to Try It: Head to Panificio Bonci or Er Buchetto near Termini Station for some of the best porchetta sandwiches. Grab one to go and enjoy this flavorful treat as you explore the city.
5. Maritozzo – Rome’s Sweet Breakfast Treat
While not traditionally “street food,” maritozzo is a Roman pastry that’s perfect for breakfast on the go. This sweet bun, filled with whipped cream, is a Roman classic that locals love to enjoy with coffee in the morning. The pastry itself is slightly sweet, soft, and generously filled, making it a decadent treat that’s hard to resist.
- Where to Try It: Try Pasticceria Regoli or Roscioli Caffè for some of the best maritozzi in town. Pair it with an espresso for the full Roman breakfast experience.
6. Gelato – An Essential Italian Treat
While gelato is available throughout Italy, Rome’s gelaterias offer an exceptional variety of flavors. From classic favorites like pistachio and chocolate to creative options like ricotta and fig, there’s a gelato for every palate. Unlike ice cream, gelato is denser and more flavorful, making it the perfect snack any time of day.
- Where to Try It: Visit Gelateria del Teatro or Fatamorgana, two artisanal gelaterias known for high-quality ingredients and unique flavors.
Tips for a Delicious Street Food Experience:
- Embrace Local Spots: While you’ll find street food throughout Rome, the best flavors are often in local neighborhoods like Trastevere, Testaccio, and Monti.
- Eat on the Go, Roman Style: Romans often enjoy their street food while walking or seated on a bench in a piazza. Find a nearby square to savor your treat and take in the local atmosphere.
- Try Seasonal Flavors: Many vendors offer seasonal ingredients, so ask about any special flavors if you’re visiting in spring or fall.
Rome’s street food scene is a fantastic way to taste the city’s culinary traditions without committing to a sit-down meal. Perfect for sampling flavors throughout the day, street food offers a window into Roman life and a chance to enjoy some of the city’s best-loved dishes on the go.