How to Eat Like a Local in Rome: Tips and Etiquette

🍽️Breakfast in Rome is small and on the go, with an espresso and a cornetto as a common choice.

☕Coffee culture in Rome revolves around espresso and cappuccino, while American-style coffee is less common.

🍕Avoid touristy restaurants with English menus; look for places with handwritten chalkboard menus for authentic Italian food.

🍝Traditional Italian pasta dishes like cacio e pepe are more typical than fettuccine alfredo or chicken parmesan.

🍦Seek out artisanal gelaterias with metal tubs and muted colors for the best and most authentic gelato in Rome.

What is the proper way to order coffee in Rome?

—Order an espresso or cappuccino in the morning, and opt for espresso in the afternoon to blend in with the locals.

Can I have a sit-down lunch in Rome?

—Lunch in Rome is typically quick and light, often enjoyed at pizzerias or bakeries. Sitting down for a long lunch is less common.

How are Italian meals structured?

—Italian meals usually consist of antipasti (appetizers), primi (pasta dishes), secondi (meat or fish dishes), contorni (side dishes), dolci (desserts), and digestivi (liqueurs).

What should I avoid when ordering gelato?

—Avoid gelaterias with vibrant colors or mounds of gelato displayed. Look for artisanal gelaterias using high-quality ingredients stored in metal tubs.

Is it common to have a long dinner in Rome?

—Yes, dinner in Rome is often a leisurely affair, with multiple courses enjoyed over several hours. Reservations are recommended.

00:00Learn the do's and don'ts of eating in Rome, from breakfast to dinner.

02:52Coffee culture in Rome revolves around espresso and cappuccino, while American-style coffee is less common.

04:35Seek out artisanal gelaterias with metal tubs and muted colors for the best and most authentic gelato in Rome.

05:52Italian meals usually consist of antipasti, primi, secondi, contorni, dolci, and digestivi.

07:19Avoid gelaterias with vibrant colors or mounds of gelato displayed. Look for artisanal gelaterias using high-quality ingredients stored in metal tubs.