Italy is synonymous with pasta, and where better to sample its most representative dishes than in Rome? The Eternal City is renowned for being a treasure trove of history, art, and culture. But what truly sets it apart is its rich culinary heritage based on fresh, seasonal, and simply prepared ingredients from the surrounding countryside. Join us on a gastronomic journey through the winding streets of the city as we reveal where to eat the best pasta in Rome, from hidden gems to iconic trattorias. 

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Classic pasta dishes of Roman cuisine 

If you love pasta, a culinary pilgrimage to Rome is a must. It’s impossible for us to choose a favourite dish, but we bring you four major contenders – why not try them all during your stay? 

Pasta alla carbonara

Let's start with a classic – carbonara: perfectly al dente spaghetti coated in a velvety sauce made from egg yolk, Pecorino Romano cheese, guanciale (cured pork jowl), and a generous grind of black pepper. The simplicity of the dish’s ingredients belies its complexity, and the perfect balance of richness, saltiness, and acidity has to be tasted to be believed. It's the epitome of Roman comfort food, a dish that transcends time and trends. 

Pasta all’amatriciana

If you're looking for a more vibrant, tangier pasta dish, amatriciana is the answer. Originating from the nearby town of Amatrice, this dish also features guanciale, cooked in a simple yet flavourful tomato and chilli sauce and topped with grated Pecorino Romano cheese. The smoky notes of the guanciale create an irresistible depth of flavour that’s a perfect match for the chewy pasta. 

Pasta alla gricia

Often considered the precursor of both carbonara and amatriciana sauces, gricia is generally made with rigatoni (large pasta tubes). Guanciale seasoned with black pepper is cooked in its own fat until crispy, then mixed with the pasta and tossed together with Pecorino Romano cheese and a little of the pasta’s starchy cooking water to create a simply, salty and ever-so-silky sauce. 

Pasta cacio e pepe

Featuring just three ingredients, this dish, with its humble yet luxurious combination of Pecorino Romano, black pepper, and pasta, provides a masterclass in the beauty of minimalism. The key to a perfect cacio e pepe lies in the ideal balance of cooking time, emulsification, and seasoning, with every strand of spaghetti offering a delicate, cheesy embrace that leaves you wanting more. 

Best pasta restaurants in Rome 

Now we’ve got your mouth watering, allow us to share a few of our favourite addresses for eating the best pasta in Rome. 

L’Antico Forno Roscioli 

A food lover's haven, Roscioli is not just a trattoria; it's a gastronomic institution. Here you can sample the best cacio e pepe in Rome, with the pasta made fresh daily. The wine selection is extensive and the atmosphere is buzzing. 

Trattoria da Enzo al 29 

Tucked away in the Trastevere district, this family-run trattoria has been serving traditional Roman cuisine for over 50 years. Home to the best carbonara in Rome – simply pair with a glass of local wine for a culinary trip to heaven. 

Armando al Pantheon

Nestled near the Pantheon, this is a charming eatery offering impeccable service and classic Roman dishes. Armando is for you if want to try the best amatriciana in Rome. Ensure you make a reservation, as it tends to get busy – a testament to its popularity. 

Flavio al Velavevodetto 

Located in the former slaughterhouse district of Testaccio, this is a charming restaurant offering traditional local cuisine, including the best gricia in Rome. The pasta is fresh and homemade daily, and the sauces nothing short of textbook. 

Reinventing the classics 

If, on the other hand, you are keen to explore the future of Roman cuisine, head for the contemporary Osteria Fernanda, modern Bistrot 64 or on-trend Retrobottega, to see what the capital’s creative young chefs are up to in the kitchen. 

No time to dine? 

Think again – thanks to Fiumicino airport’s “Book a Table” service, you can still try some of the best pasta in Rome even if you’re only touching down for a stopover or simply need to refuel before boarding. This convenient, online service enables you to reserve a table at one of the airport’s many eateries, so you can relax in comfort and style. Check out the Bistro by Mastercard restaurant or the Eataly Wine Bar for an authentic taste of ‘la dolce vita’! 

Enjoying Rome, one bite at a time 

In conclusion, whether you're a seasoned foodie or a first-time traveller, Rome’s magical ways with pasta are bound to leave an indelible mark on your culinary memories, leaving you hungry for more. Buon viaggio e buon appetito!

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