DINING ON A BUDGET IN ROME

While Rome is renowned for its world-class cuisine and elegant trattorias, it also embraces travelers on a budget with open arms—and a full plate. In this chapter, we explore how to dine affordably in the Eternal City, where you can savor authentic Roman flavors without overspending. Discover time-honored traditions, street food staples, and hidden gems that offer a true taste of Rome for just a few euros. ( + addresses! )

Pasto Fisso: Affordable Lunch Options

Similar to Spain’s Menu del Día, many Roman eateries offer “pasto fisso”—a fixed-price lunch menu featuring multiple courses. Expect a starter (like bruschetta or soup), a pasta or meat dish, dessert, bread, and water or house wine. These meals, often found in non-touristy districts, deliver incredible value and a traditional Italian dining experience.

Pro tip: Look for chalkboard menus outside local trattorias and osterias advertising daily specials.

Pizza al Taglio: Rome’s Iconic Street Slice

Pizza al taglio, or “pizza by the slice,” is one of Rome’s most beloved budget bites. Sold by weight, this style of pizza features a thick, crispy crust and creative toppings—from classic margherita to truffle mushroom. You’ll find it in small neighborhood pizzerias, perfect for a quick, inexpensive meal on the go.

Must-try: Supplì—deep-fried rice balls with tomato and mozzarella—usually sold alongside pizza.

Trattorias and Osterias: Local, Cozy, Affordable

Rome’s traditional trattorias and osterias are the heart of local cuisine. These laid-back eateries offer generous portions of Roman classics at reasonable prices. For a satisfying meal under €15–20, look for these favorites:

Cacio e Pepe – Pasta with Pecorino Romano cheese and black pepper
Amatriciana – Pasta with tomato sauce, guanciale, and Pecorino
Saltimbocca alla Romana – Veal with prosciutto and sage
Tonnarelli alla Gricia – The porky, peppery predecessor to carbonara

Eating Like a Roman in Enoteche

Enoteche, or wine bars, are a great way to eat cheaply while mingling with locals. Order a glass of wine and enjoy free or low-cost stuzzichini—small bites like olives, cheese, or bruschetta. Some enoteche even offer aperitivo buffets in the early evening, where €10 gets you a drink and access to a spread of pasta, salads, and more.

💡 Tips for Dining on a Budget in Rome

Eat lunch out, dinner in: Lunch menus offer the best value; save on dinner with grocery store snacks or a light picnic.
Head away from tourist areas: Neighborhoods like Testaccio, San Lorenzo, and Trastevere offer authentic meals at better prices than those near major landmarks.
Skip sit-down drinks: Ordering coffee or a drink at the bar (standing) is significantly cheaper than table service.
Check for coperto: Many restaurants charge a cover fee (€1–3); it’s not a tip but a standard table charge in Italy.
Markets are your friend: Snack on fresh produce, cheeses, and panini at local markets like Campo de’ Fiori or Mercato Testaccio.

🍝 20 Affordable Places to Eat in Rome

1. Pastificio Guerra

Address: Via della Croce, 8, 00187 Rome
Specialty: Fresh pasta dishes with a drink (water or wine) for around €4.50.
Tip: Near the Spanish Steps — perfect for a quick, budget-friendly lunch.

2. Forno Campo de’ Fiori

Address: Campo de’ Fiori, 22 / Vicolo del Gallo, 14, 00186 Rome
Specialty: Pizza bianca and rossa sold by weight, usually under €6.
Tip: Famous bakery — great spot for a quick snack during your walk.

3. Pizzeria La Boccaccia

Address: Via di Santa Dorotea, 2, 00153 Rome
Specialty: Pizza al taglio with lots of topping options, around €1.50 per 100g.
Tip: A top choice in Trastevere for grabbing pizza on the go.

4. Trapizzino Trilussa

Address: Piazza Trilussa, 46, 00153 Rome
Specialty: “Trapizzino” (triangular pizza pockets) filled with classics like chicken cacciatore, €3–€5.
Tip: A local favorite and unique street food concept.

5. Sto Bene Roma

Address: Piazza della Trinità dei Pellegrini, 88, 00186 Rome
Specialty: Gourmet paninis with fresh ingredients, €5–€8.
Tip: Known for carbonara-style sandwiches — creative and satisfying.

6. Gelateria Fassi (Palazzo del Freddo)

Address: Via Principe Eugenio, 65-67, 00185 Rome
Specialty: Traditional gelato, cones starting at €2.
Tip: One of the oldest gelato shops in Rome — they also serve semifreddo and gelato-filled brioche.

7. Kathmandu Fast Food

Address: Via Michelangelo Buonarroti, 38, 00185 Rome
Specialty: Nepali food like momos and curry, full meals under €7.
Tip: Great non-Italian option that’s cheap and delicious.

8. Dar Filettaro a Santa Barbara

Address: Largo dei Librari, 88, 00186 Rome
Specialty: Fried salt cod fillets (filetti di baccalà) for about €5.
Tip: A Roman classic — quick, cheap, and full of flavor.

9. Pane e Salame

Address: Via di Santa Maria in Via, 19, 00187 Rome
Specialty: Artisan sandwiches with Italian cold cuts and cheese.
Tip: Cozy and close to Trevi Fountain — perfect for lunch.

10. Pasta Imperiale

Address: Via di San Francesco a Ripa, 104, 00153 Rome
Specialty: Fresh handmade pasta with classic sauces, around €10–€15.
Tip: A great casual eatery in Trastevere.

11. Da Enzo al 29

Address: Via dei Vascellari, 29, 00153 Rome
Specialty: Roman favorites like carbonara and amatriciana (€12–€18).
Tip: Family-run trattoria, loved for its authenticity.

12. Mordi e Vai

Address: Via Beniamino Franklin, 12E, 00153 Rome (inside Testaccio Market)
Specialty: Roman-style sandwiches filled with things like beef stew and tripe, €5–€8.
Tip: Ideal for a fast, flavorful lunch in Testaccio.