Campo Marzio Restaurants

This sweet little spot near the Borghese gardens has great, fresh vegetable dishes and a perfect, concise wine list, so it's easy to tuck into before an afternoon tour.

In a city filled with good restaurants, we’ve been told on good authority that ReCafé serves the best pizza in Rome.

This family-owned restaurant, located near the Spanish steps—but not at all touristy—is a great spot for handmade seafood pasta, and the artichokes and meatloaf are pretty phenomenal, too. The local favorite can book up pretty quickly, so call in or email for a reservation in advance; a handwritten placard will mark your table when you arrive.

If you’re spending an afternoon strolling the banks of the Tiber, pop into this traditional Roman restaurant for a seafood-centric dinner: If you can’t decide between fish and pasta—both excellent options here—the pro move is to order the linguine with lobster or spaghetti with clams to get the best of both worlds. There are two dining rooms inside, though since the restaurant takes up a lovely corner overlooking the Piazza Nicosia, the best seat in the house is on the outdoor patio— perfect for observing your fellow diners (mostly locals) in their natural habitat.

It's hard to differentiate some of the eateries in this city given that there's so many gems, but 'Gusto stands apart for its ingenuity. More of a market-osteria-restaurant-bar hybrid, this warehouse, industrial-style space boasts some of the best provisions in the city, all under one roof. Owners Alessandra Marino and her husband, Alessandro Tudini, founded the space in the late 1990s, to offer patrons a place to grab a drink, a meal, a quick pizza, or some kitchen essentials. Since 'Gusto has grown to become sort of a culinary emporium. Do not come here expecting good service, but rather a bustling environment and exceptional dishes.

With its fresh, al dente pasta, robust wine cellar, and romantic interiors, this restaurant is classic Rome. Pasta is made in house, while seafood is brought in daily–and with almost every dish, the truffle reigns. We particularly love how the waitstaff is so patient and friendly, always willing to help you pair the best wine for your meal. You'll inevitably leave full, so take a stroll through the city's center after.