Deciding where to eat in Rome is an adventure in itself, especially when traveling as a family. From cozy trattorias to casual pizzerias that welcome kids, dining in the eternal city is both relaxed and flavorful.
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Rome is a place that celebrates simple, comforting food made with fresh ingredients, making it easy to find meals that appeal to both adults and children—even in areas that can feel a bit touristy.
With the right spots, mealtimes become a highlight of the trip rather than a challenge, and during 2 days in Rome with kids, these breaks are also the easiest way to slow down, refuel, and enjoy the local culture together.
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Whether you’re following a detailed guide to Rome or exploring on your own, knowing exactly where to eat is one of our absolute best tips for traveling with kids.
- Traveling with children can feel overwhelming, so it's best to come prepared. Start by checking out my guide to packing hacks for travel with kids.
- If you’re flying, you’ll also want to know what to do before a flight, along with tips on how to handle a long layover with kids.
Trust me, I’ve been there. I survived a week in Barcelona with kids, and I know firsthand that traveling with little ones is practically a full-time job.
Restaurants We Ate At in Rome
After a long day of sightseeing, these family-friendly spots showcase the best food in Rome, with comforting classics, welcoming atmospheres, and menus that work just as well for kids as they do for adults.
We booked two food tours: Eternal Rome Food Tour: Jewish Ghetto, Campo de’ Fiori and Trastevere by Eating Rome and Testaccio Small Group Food Tour by The Tour Guy.
Thanks to our amazing tour guides, we were able to discover delicious restaurants that offer authentic Roman food culture.
To truly travel like a local, you have to eat like one. And yes, that’s possible even with little ones in tow. I’ve curated my top foodie guides to help you navigate global cuisines with confidence.
- You can start with my European favorites, specifically the best Barcelona food markets, and where to find the most incredible Florence food.
- For families looking for street culture and great value, my deep dives into must-try Colombian street food and the best cheap eats in Israel are essential reading for your next trip.
But of course, let me give you what you came here for.
Here are all the food places in Rome we visited, highlighting the ones we highly recommend:
La Taverna del Ghetto
Location: Via del Portico d'Ottavia, 8, 00186 Roma RM, Italy
I had my first-ever carciofi alla giudia here, the iconic deep-fried Jewish artichoke, and it was beyond my wildest dreams.
It was crispy, golden, and impossibly light with tender layers inside. One bite and I immediately understood why this dish is so beloved in Rome’s Jewish Quarter.
My husband went for an arancini-like baton stuffed with warm, melty cheese. Everything was great, and we highly recommend it.
Poldo e Gianna Osteria
Location: Vicolo Rosini, 6, 00186 Roma RM, Italy
We went here for lunch, and it was absolutely phenomenal. It has a Michelin recommendation, and it’s very easy to see why.
The wine pairings were thoughtful and well explained, and every dish that came out tasted exceptional: simple, well-executed Italian food.
This place serves some of the best pasta we've ever tried. My daughter absolutely fell in love with it, and honestly, with pasta like this, who wouldn't?
CiPASSO
We chose CiPASSO for my birthday celebration, and it started on a high note. That's to be expected, considering it’s another Michelin-recommended gem.
The appetizers were truly incredible; easily the standout of the meal and worth ordering on their own. The rest of the dishes were good, but they didn’t quite live up to how strong the beginning was.
- Enjoy a kid-friendly class to make authentic pizza and tiramisu with child-safe tools and a relaxed, playful vibe by booking here.
One thing that stood out was feeling a bit pressured by the staff to order more than we actually wanted, which ended up leaving us with to-go boxes.
It wasn’t a bad experience overall, but it didn’t feel as relaxed or memorable as we’d hoped for a special occasion meal.
Roscioli Salumeria con Cucina
Location: Via dei Giubbonari, 21, 00186 Roma RM, Italy
An amazing little hole-in-the-wall and easily one of those places you plan your day around.
The food is exceptional, the ingredients are top-notch, and the atmosphere feels intimate and special despite the small space. This is a place where you must make a reservation.
If you can’t get a table, don’t skip it entirely. They also have a grab-and-go bakery just around the corner, Roscioli Caffè Pasticceria.
We got their gluten-free chocolate cake and a layered cake with ricotta and cherries baked into the base. Both were excellent, but the ricotta and cherry cake really stood out.
We discovered these from the Eating Europe tour I mentioned earlier!
Ancient Pizzicheria Ruggeri
Location: P.za Campo de' Fiori, 1, 00186 Roma RM, Italy
If you want to experience authentic Roman charcuterie, this place is the best spot.
The shop itself dates back to 1919 and has been popular for its high-quality cheeses, cured meats, olives, wines, and artisanal pantry items that showcase real Italian flavors and tradition.
What makes Ruggeri stand out is not just the products you can buy, but the fact that they also let you order at the counter and sit in the small seating area in the back for a proper bite.
Mercato Hostaria Roma
This restaurant is known for its authentic Italian and Roman cuisine.
What’s especially nice for families and groups is the warm, cozy atmosphere and the fact that it’s open from breakfast through late evening, so you can pop in for lunch, dinner, or even just drinks and small plates.
Because it’s right in a busy piazza and quite popular with both locals and travelers, it’s best to make a reservation if you can, especially for dinner or on busy nights.
Trattoria della Stampa - Drogheria al Pellegrino
Location: Via del Pellegrino, 51/51a, 00186 Roma RM, Italy
Found this cute breakfast place near our apartment. The vibe is cozy and authentic, far from the tourist‑trap feel you might find in busier squares, and the staff are friendly and welcoming. They also serve brunch and coffee!
Osteria Luci in Cucina
Location: Piazza Pasquale Paoli, 15, 00186 Roma RM, Italy
This was a convenient stop near the Vatican City. We ordered a selection of grilled vegetables (zucchini, eggplant, and red peppers) served simply with olive oil.
We also tried a cheese plate with honey and fruit preserve, which was pleasant enough but felt a bit underwhelming given how memorable Italian cheeses can be elsewhere.
I had an Aperol spritz to round out the meal, which was refreshing and probably the highlight of the table.
This place wasn't too bad, but it just didn't leave a lasting impression.
Ristorante Spirito Divino
This family-run restaurant is housed in a medieval building that served as Rome's first synagogue in the 11th century.
We took our wine glasses downstairs to tour the cavernous wine cellar, which predates even the Colosseum itself. It was truly a unique experience.
We ate their famous Mazio-style pork stew served over perfectly al dente rigatoni and with crostini on the side. My husband and I shared a bottle of local Sangiovese that paired beautifully with the meal.
Voglia di Pizza - Gluten Free
Location: Via dei Giubbonari, 33, 00186 Roma RM, Italy
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Honestly, this place had the best pizza in Rome, but it's also arguably the best GF pizza I’ve ever had in my life: crispy yet soft, perfectly baked, and topped with fresh, flavorful ingredients.
My daughter immediately fell in love with their cacio e pepe pizza, and now she asks for it constantly at home.
The staff were welcoming, the atmosphere casual and fun, and the quality of the food makes this place an absolute must-visit for anyone, whether or not you need gluten-free options. I truly can’t recommend it enough!
Mama Eat Roma
Location: Via di S. Cosimato, 7/9, 00153 Roma RM, Italy
Located right in the heart of Trastevere, this spot is a legend for its dual-kitchen setup, which allows them to serve an entirely separate (and massive!) gluten-free menu without any risk of cross-contamination.
You can also find a massive selection of traditional staples, from crispy, deep-fried supplì and croquettes to artisanal pizzas and handmade pastas.
Pasta in Corso
Location: Corso Vittorio Emanuele II, 273-275, 00186 Roma RM, Italy
This restaurant specialized in the "Big Four" Roman pastas—Carbonara, Cacio e Pepe, Amatriciana, and Gricia—alongside highly-rated supplì (fried rice balls) that are some of the best in the city.
These handmade pastas are prepared in a dedicated, open gluten-free kitchen, where you can watch chefs hand-rolling pasta.
It also features a wheelchair-accessible entrance, seating, and restrooms, making it a comfortable and practical stop for seniors or those with mobility considerations.
Local Bakeries We Tried
Of course, no visit to Rome would be complete without stopping by a few local bakeries along the way.
These neighborhood spots are loved by locals and tourists alike, whether for a quick morning pastry, a mid-day snack, or the best desserts to eat after having a full, hearty meal.
All'Antico Vinaio
Location: Piazza della Maddalena, 3, 00186 Roma RM, Italy
This spot is famous for its fresh, generously filled Italian panini made right in front of you. They have quality meats, cheeses, and flavorful spreads tucked into crisp-on-the-outside, fluffy-inside bread.
Be warned, though, the line can be insane during lunch and early evening. Once you get your sandwich, there’s no indoor seating. So the best way to enjoy it is right there in the square or on a nearby bench.
Barnum Roma
Location: Via del Pellegrino, 87, 00186 Roma RM, Italy
A great stop for brunch, baked goods, or just a really good coffee, especially if you’re starting your day nearby. The pastries are beautiful and clearly made with care, and it was a relief to see gluten-free options available as well.
It does get very popular, and the line can be intense, particularly in the morning. It's better to treat this as a grab-and-go spot rather than planning to linger. Still, it’s well worth the quick stop
Sant' Eustachio Caffè
Location: Piazza di S. Eustachio, 82, 00186 Roma RM, Italy
Sant' Eustachio Caffè is a fantastic spot for coffee or a light brunch and one of those places that lives up to its reputation. Their espresso is rich and memorable.
The only thing to keep in mind is that they keep somewhat odd hours, so it’s worth checking before you go. Also, don’t be tempted by the café directly across the street. It may look similar, but it’s not the same experience and very much feels like a tourist trap.
Le Tartarughe Eat & Drink
An adorable bar‑style café right on Piazza Mattei. It's perfect for a stop during a day of wandering in Rome’s Jewish Ghetto/Ancient Rome area.
The menu includes a nice range of aperitivi, wines, spritzes, coffee drinks, and small bites like antipasti plates, salumi, cheeses, and pastries.
It's pretty easy to enjoy the vibe of sitting outside and people‑watching while sipping a drink or nibbling on snacks as the sun sets.
Le Altre Farine Del Mulino
Location: Via di Porta Cavalleggeri, 151/153, 00165 Roma RM, Italy
Located just steps away from the Vatican walls, this is a 100% dedicated gluten-free bakery and pastry shop run by welcoming Sicilian owners who bring a touch of Southern Italian warmth and expertise to Rome. It's an ideal spot for a quick, worry-free breakfast or a savory snack while exploring the St. Peter's area.
Glummy
Location: Via Urbana, 142, 00184 Roma RM, Italy
This bakery is a favorite for those seeking safe, high-quality Italian treats at any hour, as it famously operates 24 hours a day (except for Mondays).
Its location on the trendy Via Urbana and its nearly round-the-clock opening hours make it a perfect choice for an early-morning breakfast or a late-night craving.
Vivo Musei Vaticani Pizza Bio di Grani Toscani, anche Gluten-Free
Location: Via Leone IV, 32, 00192 Roma RM, Italy
This spot is a gem for anyone looking for high-quality, organic ingredients. It's a total lifesaver for families with dietary restrictions.
You absolutely cannot leave without trying the homemade gluten-free tiramisu. It’s often prepared personally by the owner, Alessandra.
Sweet Stops for Gelato in Rome
No trip to Rome is complete without stopping for gelato. The city's gelaterias take this beloved treat seriously. Most places have amazing flavor selections as well, from classic flavors like pistachio and stracciatella to seasonal fruit sorbets.
Here are some that we tried:
Fiocco di Neve
Location: Via del Pantheon, 51, 00186 Roma RM, Italy
This charming, small shop is entirely dedicated to gluten-free treats, meaning even the crispy cones and wafers are safe.
Gluten‑free cones can be surprisingly hard to find, especially ones that are genuinely crispy and enjoyable, which is why it's a welcome surprise for us here in Fiocco di Neve.
It's near the Pantheon, so it makes for a perfect, low-effort stop for seniors or parents with young children who need a quick, delicious break.
Gelateria Della Palma
Location: Via della Maddalena, 19-23, 00186 Roma RM, Italy
Another gelato place near the Pantheon. What truly sets Della Palma apart is its incredible variety. At any given time, you can choose from around 150 flavors, which is one of the widest selections in the city.
You can also try out vegan options, lactose‑free choices, and sugar‑free selections, meaning almost everyone in your group can find something delicious to enjoy.
Fatamorgana Gelato
Location: Via Roma Libera, 11, 00153 Roma RM, Italy
A famous gelateria founded by Maria Agnese Spagnuolo, who created the shop specifically to provide high-quality, artisan gelato for those with celiac disease.
Because the founder herself is celiac, the entire shop is 100% gluten-free—including the cones—eliminating any risk of cross-contamination.
This was the absolute best gelato in Rome that we tried and I highly recommend this place!
Otaleg
Location: Viale dei Quattro Venti, 70, 00152 Roma RM, Italy
Gelato here is made in small batches by a master gelataio, which means attention to texture and ingredient quality is a priority.
Yes, everything here is freshly made every day, even classic Italian staples like pistachio and unique seasonal creations alike.
They also have coffee and artisanal pastries, making it a nice stop not just for dessert but for a casual treat or midday break.
Eating Our Way Through Rome
Sampling different Rome restaurants gave us a deeper appreciation for the city’s culture, where even the simplest dishes can feel thoughtful and full of history.
Food has a way of slowing you down, turning a busy tour of Rome into moments of rest, connection, and enjoyment around the table.
Whether you’re visiting Rome for the first time or returning with family in tow, knowing where to eat makes the experience that much more rewarding. With the right mix of planning and spontaneity, every meal can become part of the adventure.
