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Since 1918, this historic pasta shop near the Spanish Steps has been a savior for budget travelers and busy locals. Every day, they offer two types of freshly made pasta in plastic containers for a remarkably low price (usually around 4-5 Euros). There are no tables; people simply stand at the small counters inside or eat on the street. Expert recommendation: they usually have one classic meat-based pasta and one vegetarian option. Pro tip: the price often includes a small cup of water or wine. It's the fastest and cheapest 'real' meal in the high-rent district. Look for the crowd of people standing outside around 1:00 PM to find the entrance.
Exploring Rome on the back of an authentic Piaggio Vespa with an expert local driver guide is the most cinematic way to discover the Eternal City, replicating the Audrey Hepburn and Gregory Peck route of Roman Holiday through a series of iconic locations—the Mouth of Truth, the Circus Maximus, the Palatine Hill, and the via Appia Antica lined with ancient pine trees and Roman aqueduct arches stretching to the horizon. The Vespa's maneuverability through Rome's narrow medieval streets and historic neighborhoods allows access to piazzas, fountains, and viewpoints that tourist buses never reach, creating an intimate encounter with the living city between its monuments. Evening tours as the sunset light turns the Forum's stones golden and the streets fill with the passeggiata provide a particularly romantic experience.
A refreshing departure from heavy pasta and pizza, Ginger focuses on 'wellness' through high-quality organic produce, exotic fruit platters, and sustainably sourced meats. The interior is bright, white, and airy, feeling more like a modern Californian bistro than a traditional Roman eatery. It is located on one of the city's most beautiful shopping streets. Expert recommendation: their massive fruit smoothies and the 'Gourmet Salads' are perfect for a light lunch. Pro tip: they are open all day from breakfast until late night, making it an excellent fallback option when other restaurants are closed between lunch and dinner. It’s very popular with the fashion crowd, so expect a short wait during peak hours.

Founded in 1760, this is the second oldest cafe in Italy and has hosted legends like Casanova, Goethe, and Keats. The interior is a museum in itself, with red velvet chairs, marble tables, and over 300 works of art. The atmosphere is one of hushed, historic luxury amidst the high-fashion boutiques of Via dei Condotti. Expert recommendation: order a 'Caffè' and a small pastry. Pro tip: there is a significant price difference between standing at the bar (cheap) and sitting at the tables (very expensive 'service' fee). If you want the historic experience without the 15-euro coffee, stand at the bar and soak in the 18th-century vibes.
Located on the 6th floor of the legendary Hotel Hassler at the top of the Spanish Steps, Imàgo was the city's first panoramic restaurant. The dining room offers a 360-degree view of the Roman skyline, from the Villa Borghese to the dome of St. Peter's. The cuisine is contemporary Italian with an emphasis on texture and visual artistry. Expert recommendation: watch the sunset over the city's rooftops while enjoying their signature seasonal seafood dishes. Pro tip: the atmosphere is formal and hushed, perfect for a romantic milestone. Arrive 30 minutes early to have a drink at the Hassler Bar downstairs, a favorite of icons like Audrey Hepburn.
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