Eating Out in Rome

Spaghetti alla Carbonara. (Photo credit: Wikipedia) By Aidan Fitzgerald


Italian Food...
What is it that makes Italian food so unique? Well, it's exceptionally varied and every area in Italy has its own specialties. The North tends to use more cream, butter and parmigiano cheese while the south prefer to use olive oil, dried pasta, mozzarella and pecorino (sheep milk) cheeses. The pizza bases in Rome are very thin while the Sicilian pizzas are much thicker.
Don't worry about making a mess, as it can be quite hard to eat gracefully when in Rome! No one cares if you've dribbles of spaghetti or toppings of floppy pizzas around your chin! Just be sure to dab it off when the meal is over!
Mealtimes...
Breakfast - the most important meal of the day? The Romans don't agree! It's not really a big thing in Rome but instead; they make lunch the main meal of the day. They normally keep breakfast light with your typical morning fare consisting of a cappuccino, some sort of sweet pastry or just a shot of espresso coffee. Breakfast usually isn't eaten at home; instead Romans pop into one of the many coffee shops that line the city's streets.
Romans see lunch as the big meal! A typical meal begins with an antipasto - this is a type of starter, which can be hot or cold.
Then you'll have a primo piatto, which is a first course. Rice, risotto, pasta or other carbohydrates are popular choices!
The secondo piatto is your second and main course, with meat or fish being the main constituent. It's said that veal, pork and chicken are the most popular among Rome's citizens. This second course is usually served with a side dish consisting of either vegetables or a salad and then fresh fruit. This side dish is called the contorno. Sometimes a light dessert is had after the secondo. The Italian word for dessert is dolce. The meal is brought to a close with a coffee - caffe - or a strong liqueur.
Dinner was never a big thing but now it's similar to lunches. It's never eaten before 8.30 and you'll often see people sitting down to a four course meal as late as eleven o clock!
Rome's specialities...
Most of us are familiar with the Italian specialities pizza, spaghetti alla carbonara and even lasagne. All of these have been adopted into the western world but only in Italy itself will you get the authentic taste of these! Be sure to enjoy pizza from one of Romes array of top pizzerias.
In Rome a wide range of recipes can be found. These are just a few popular ones that you'll see in original Italian restaurants. Veal escalopes with ham, 'saltimbocca'; the famous Roman tripe; as well as a delicious plate of roast lamb seasoned with rosemary and thyme, 'abbacchio alla romana'. Ham is eaten together with figs, and there is a wide choice of vegetables including peas, asparagus and artichokes
A typical Roman menu contains the essential bruschetta, which is grilled bread cut into finger sized slices and is marinated in fine olive oil and garlic. There are many classic pasta dishes such as spaghetti bolognese, bucatini all'amatriciana and bucatini cacao e pepe. Choosing what you want from the restaurants menu will be the hardest decision. My advice is to go for something different, after all it's not everyday that you're in Rome!
Wine...
If your can't tell your chardonnay from your sauvignon blanc, I can't think of a better place to introduce yourself to wine than Rome. Italy has the best variety of Vino, ranging through nearly every colour, flavour and style imaginable. From well known Chiantis to rustic Pinot Grigio's, Italy's wine's are renowned to be the finest in the world.
For Italians themselves wine is food and no mealtime is complete without a glass of a fine white to accompany foul and fish, or maybe a sultry red to add to the flavour of a well seasoned pasta.
Italians waiters are among the finest in the world and will be glad to give you a taste of various wines before you choose which one you'd like to have to accompany your meal. And, if you're going to be really adventurous, why not enjoy a dessert of red wine and a selection of fine Italian cheeses, like Bel Paese, Gorgonzola and Romano.
Rome's best places to eat...
Wondering where to dine? Well Rome has loads of restaurants to choose form so you'll be spoilt for choice here!
If you see a place packed with locals, you know it'll be good, as the Italians love their food! You'll find a lot of restaurants are quite expensive, most commonly in the popular tourist areas like Piazza Navona and the Pantheon. If you're on a budget, avoid these as they are over priced and the food is just as good in other areas of the city.
On the other hand, there are many decent and reasonably priced eateries near by. The most popular areas being Campo dei Fiori, Trastevere, Via di Tor Millina (you'll find it just off Piazza Navona) and Via del Goveno Vecchio.
Popular restaurants include the Papa Re restaurant located in the Trastevere area (it boasts genuine recipes from Rome) or Dar Poeta, who're renowned for their pizzas.
If your looking for a vegetarian option, Marguta Vegetarian Restaurant is extremely popular and it is located at the corner of the Via Margutta.
Prices...
If all you want is a tasty authentic pizza and a beer altogether it'll cost about �15.
If your dining Italian style, your typical three course meal can vary in price - it all depends on where you eat. At a midrange restaurant, a three course meal could cost about �30 and in a top restaurant the price ranges from �50 upwards.
Know before you go!
Tipping is not essential - it's your own choice but the least you can do is round up the bill. The Italians usually don't leave a tip but the tourists are expected to (about 5% of your bill in pizzerias and 10% in top restaurants).
Opening Hours in Rome...
The opening hours vary from restaurant to restaurant and waiting for a table is not unusual! The best way to get a table is by arriving before 8.30pm or later than 10pm.
Restaurants tend to open for dinner at about 9pm but in tourist's areas, doors' opening at 7pm is a common practice. Lunches are the main meal of the day and normally served from about 12.30pm to about 3pm.
Ready to dine in Rome...
So now you've read this article you should be ready to face Romes restaurants! A big part of your holiday in Rome will consist of consuming superb foods and gorgeous wine! Remember the most important thing is to choose foods you like to eat while embracing Roman tradition at the same time.
Whatever your individual interests are when visiting Rome; you're guaranteed to come across a restaurant that you'll love! Ciao!
Aidan writes for top travel and accommodation website PlacesToStay.com
Visit PlacesToStay.com to book a wide range of carefully selected hotels in Ireland, Europe and throughout the world at great value prices!
Heading to Rome soon? Then check out our Rome Hotels page for a comprehensive range of budget, mid range and luxury hotels in Rome.

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Guide to Rome For Family Travel

Rome (Photo credit: ryarwood)
By James Burrows


Rome is one of the best-loved and most beautiful tourist destinations in the world and a visit to this city will give tourists a chance to visit some of the best museums, architectural wonders, churches and parks in Europe. There are a number of different sights and activities across the city which can be enjoyed by both adults and children alike. Here is a guide to help visitors to Rome plan a family holiday.
If you are travelling to Rome with young children or elderly people, it is important to keep in mind any special needs they may have. This is especially important when choosing accommodation in Rome. There are many hotels across the city that are suitable for children that have many extra facilities like children's beds, play areas and day care centres or nannies available.
Another factor to consider when travelling with families is food. While there are a number of restaurants around Rome that cater to different budgets and provide excellent meals, you may have to do some research before hand on the different types of restaurants near your hotel if you are travelling with children or with elderly people who have special dietary requirements. It might also be a good idea to find a hotel or vacation rental that allows self catering.
The main attractions in Rome are architectural in nature, and when travelling with children, it is a good idea to plan the day ahead of time. Visiting the tourist attractions early in the morning, or at times when the crowds are smaller is a good idea, since it will allow you more time to enjoy the sights while not getting caught up with the many groups of people.
When you are choosing accommodation for a family holiday, it is also a good idea to stay in a place that has easy access to a number of attractions, which will allow you to cut down on travel time. Some of the most important sites in Rome are the Spanish Steps, the Coliseum, the Pantheon, the Campi dei Fiori, the Piazza Navona, Saint Peter's Basilica and the Roman Forum. In addition to this, there are many museums and galleries across the city. Visitors to Rome will also be able to enjoy the many concerts, shows and theatrical displays put up from time to time.
You could also take your family to one of the many gardens in Rome and have a picnic. The Temple of Hadrian, Hadrian's wall, the Piazza del Popolo and some of the temples in the area are also worth visiting.
James works in the travel industry and works with Rome family accommodation and Vacation Guides.

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5 Restaurants You Must Try in the Pantheon Area, Rome

The Pantheon in Rome, Italy (Photo credit: Wikipedia)By James Burrows


The Pantheon is a hugely historic site in Rome. It is a temple which was rebuilt by Emperor Hadrian in 126AD. Its vast history and intriguing design mean that it is a huge draw for tourists who arrive to enjoy the architecture as well as for religious reasons. One thing is for sure, a visit to the Pantheon area is not complete for any tourist unless the sample some of the surrounding culture. The range of eateries is a great way to experience local customs. Below are some of the restaurants which you must try in the Pantheon area:
Da Gino - The Da Gino restaurant offers regional food cooked to a good standard. The music from the gazebo and the authentic roman vibe means that this restaurant is a cultural experience and ideal for that mid day meal amidst the site seeing.
Il Bacaro - The quietness and calm outside this restaurant make it hard to believe that it is only a few minutes walk away from some of the largest tourist attractions in Rome. Situated down a side street and under a marvellous vine tree, the Il Bacaro is a wonderful place if you enjoy food which has been prepared directly for you. Don't be fooled by the reasonably low levels of custom inside, the food is delightful and deserving of a more prominent spot.
La Rosetta - One of the original fish restaurants to be opened in Rome, you can be sure that all items on the menu at La Rosetta have been prepared using years of experience. A real treat for the seafood lover and a nice way for those who are not sure about this type of menu to dabble in its delights. La Rosetta has received acclaim in various international publications....and for good reason.
Pizzeria Il Leoncino - It would be a shame to visit Rome, or Italy in general, without experiencing one of the countries signature dishes. Pizza is one of Italy's most successful exports, but you can't beat the taste of a fresh cooked pizza in an Italian restaurant. At Pizzeria Il Leoncino you can experience genuine Roman pizza for a pleasantly low price in what can be an expensive area.
Otello alla Concordia - Reliable is often a word used to describe this characteristic side street restaurant, so those of you looking for that safe bet, look no further. Choose between a seat inside or move outside under the arbour-covered courtyard and select from the variety of traditional Roman dishes.
James spends a lot of time in Rome, Italy and especially loves the local foods and wines. James also promotes Pantheon apartments and Spanish Steps accommodation for tourists in Italy.

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ANZIO (Rome) Is One of the Last "Best Kept Secrets" For Italy Fans and Individualists

The Vatican Museums are the world's 37th most visited tourist destination, with over 4.2 million tourists a year. (Photo credit: Wikipedia)
By Adrian Coman


The picturesque and genuine harbour is located directly at the Mediterranean Sea, 45 km south of Rome and free of mass tourism. The culture and the history of the region, the nature and the typical Italian way of life invite the visitor to enjoy "la dolce vita" atmosphere and sea life. In recent times, the Allies landed on its shores during World War II, and the American Monumental War Cemetery is not to be missed.
In ancient times, Emperor Nerone chose it as the site for the Complex of the Imperial Palace and the Roman Theatre. The Roman Port and the Grotto of Emperor Nerone represent two more salient features of the town. By day time, the town lazily lies in the sun along its beautiful sandy beaches (both free or equipped with parasols, sun beds, restaurants, snack bars) and is an ideal sea life resort. At night has a very lively night life with many open air restaurants, pubs and genuine pizza houses all over town and along sea shore offering exquisite Italian cuisine, wines and day-fresh sea foods. The region has a mild climate. The summers are sunny, dry and temperate with refreshing soft winds coming from the sea , the warm water enables swimming from May to October.

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One of the best places to begin your day is at the Arc De Triomphe, the largest roundabout in France's capital and one of the most hazardous in the world. No insurance company will cover a vehicle travelling around it, as twelve roads feed into the circle with no clear road markings an and even less clear is who has right of way.

What to Do on Holiday in Lazio and Rome

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Rome is capital city of Lazio and Italy and is the most populated one as well. It is situated in the western- central portion of the Italian peninsula over the River Tiber.

Rome Auditorium - Events, Music and Modern Architecture in Rome

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One of the best example of modern architecture in Rome is, on my opinion, the Renzo Piano's "Auditorium Parco della Musica", a large multi-function public music complex.
Unfortunately, this wonderful construction is located out of the historic centre, in the north side of Rome, so tourists generally miss it.
Opened in 2002, Auditorium Parco della Musica combines architectural innovation with perfect acoustics. The complex is composed of three separate enormous bug-like halls whose forms are inspired by musical instruments. A fourth concert hall is the open air theater evoking Greco-Roman theaters.

How to Do Venice in 48 Hours

Piazza San Marco, the Campanile and Doge's Palace (Photo credit: **Mary**)


By Katy Hyslop


Canals, gondoliers, romance, swaying buildings and mystery persons wearing painted masks. This guide will help you get behind the mask of Venice in just 48 hours.
Providing you haven't spent the better part of the day trying to locate your accommodation you may find some time after checking in to do some exploring. One of the first things you will notice is no traffic. Vehicles are restricted to the last piece of solid ground near the train station, Piazzale Roma. This is where the bus terminal and public carparks are located and where your journey begins.

Portugal's Culinary Popularity

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Portugal is very popular for their cuisine, which makes this country a very popular travel destination. In the 15th century, the Age of Discovery greatly impacted cooking in Portugal. Cinnamon and curry power were very popular ingredients brought to Portugal during this time.
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Trevi Fountain - Rome's Most Famous Fountain

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How to do Barcelona in 48 hours

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You have just 2 full days to see and experience all Barcelona has to offer. It sounds like mission impossible but you can do this wonderful vibrant city in just 48 hours with the help of this guide.
13:00
The main streets of Barcelona are wide and long, criss-crossing the city taking you off in new directions and new sensations. Spend some time familiarising yourself with Las Ramblas and the top of Plaça de Catalunya.
You could spend hours on the Ramblas alone, taking in the unique stalls selling everything from newspapers, to birds, to reptiles, to flowers and rabbits. Then there are the street performers, colourful characters that pose, mime, sing, dance and juggle for the passing crowds.
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Paris and the Avid Shopper

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Holidays With a View - 5 of Our Favourite Views You Can Take in on Holiday

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French Alps
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Image via WikipediaBy Sarah Dudleymore


1). Agata & Romeo:Is a family based restaurant that has been around for three generations serving traditional local Roman cuisine. Its large collection of different types of wine to delicious. Romeo is an expert sommelier (more than 1500 labels in his cellar), he can help you select the appropriate wine to best match your desired meal. Agata is the chef known for her delicious unique recipes of her traditional Roman dishes.
Cuisine: Italian, European
Opening Times: Monday-Friday 12.00pm-3.00pm, 7.00pm-11.30pm, Closed: Saturday/Sunday
Location: Via Carlo Alberto,45
2). Checchino da 1887:This is another perfect example of traditional Roman food with a more wide variety and taste. Try the veal hearts with artichokes or oxtail stew. These are highly recommended by everyone. Don't be scared by this, they are also very good in serving the finger-licking homemade pasta, and salads. Desserts are a must have!
Cuisine: Italian, Roman
Opening Times: 12.30pm-3.00pm, 8.00pm-12.00am
Location: Via di Monte Testaccio,30

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Rome, Santa Sabina (Photo credit: batigolix)
By Adam Singleton


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Spanish Steps in Rome - A Popular Tourist Attraction

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The Spanish Steps in Italian it's called "Scalinata". These are famous set of steps in one of the most well known areas of Rome. Despite of its name, the famous Spanish Steps were actually built by the French. The monumental stairway of 138 steps, "Scalinata di Spagna" or "Spanish Steps" were constructed between 1723 and 1725 with French diplomat Étienne Gueffier. They can be easily found and recognized at the Piazza di Spagna square rectangle like shape. The Piazza di Spagna is one of the most popular tourist sites in Rome. The Scalinata is without a doubt the longest and widest staircase in all Europe.

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Image via WikipediaBy Katy Hyslop


Is it possible? Yes. This guide gives you the low-down on how to see all the major landmarks and places of interest of Western Europe's largest cosmopolitan city in only 48 hours.
10:30
It is possible to get acquainted with London relatively quickly. Arm yourself with an A-Z map book, the pocket version is perfectly adequate, a travel card, a good pair of walking shoes and London is yours to discover.
Start from somewhere central such as St James's Park station and you can get around some of the major city sights as they are within easy walking distance of each other. You are already in the heart of Westminster. Straight ahead lies St James's Park, the lake in the centre casts a viewpoint left up towards Buckingham Palace and right towards Whitehall.
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Every morning at 11am the Queen's regiments perform the Changing of the Guard ceremony at the Wellington Barracks. They begin by warming up the band and marching the troops around the parade ground before heading over to the palace. They are joined by the Horse Guard coming up the Mall from St James's Palace.