Your Survival Guy’s Best Insider’s Guide to Rome

In recent conversations, you’ve told me about your trips to Rome and beyond. In one conversation, we discussed the favorite piece of pizza you enjoyed after an insider in your group walked you all through the streets of the city on a mission. When you got there, the line was out the door, and the host asked you how many in your party—”15,” someone said. He turned around and went back inside. “No go?” You all wondered. Not exactly. Minutes later, he returned carrying a big, folded table, opened it up in the alley, and before you knew it, you were having the best slice in Rome, eating outside under the stars, and all was good with the world.

We can all learn from each other. Here’s some of the places we hit on our most memorable trip to the ancient city.

Fine Dining Restaurants & Bars in Rome | Hotel de Russie (roccofortehotels.com)

We stayed at Hotel de Russie. The restaurant Le Jardin is excellent for lunch and/or dinner. I recommend the lower-level garden for tea/drinks as well.

Ristorante Rocco – Monti – Rome – The Infatuation

Rocco is a classic Italian neighborhood type restaurant. It’s family run. The waiter helped us order several dishes etc.

Pizzeria Roma Sparita

We had lunch at Sparita. The Tagliolini cacio e pepe is classic. There was a table of US military guys behind us. Great spot for lunch.

Rome Cavalieri Waldorf Astoria | La Pergola Rome Restaurant

This is a three Michelin star restaurant. The only one in Rome. It’s a pricey, special event type experience. The sommelier has been there over 30 years, and Chef visited with us after dessert.

Aroma Restaurant, 1 Michelin Star in Rome (manfredihotels.com)

This is like eating in the Colosseum. It’s where gladiators were trained. One Michelin star. Pretty amazing setting.

Ad HOC Piazza del Popolo – Ristorante Ad Hoc Roma | Prenota Ora | Ristorante Gourmet Roma

An easy walk from Hotel de Russie, making it worth it right there.

P.S. Read more about my recent research trip to Rome and Paris here: