During my solo trip to Rome last October, I had the pleasure of dining at some of the best pasta spots in the city. Not only did I savor incredible meals, but I also made new friends along the way. Here’s a list of the best pasta spots I visited, what I ordered at each, and a bit about my Rome experience:
- SantoPalato
- I tried their rigatoni alla carbonara, a classic Roman dish that was rich and creamy with a perfect balance of guanciale and pecorino. The restaurant had a retro vibe, and I loved the lively atmosphere.
- Armando al Pantheon
- Just steps from the Pantheon, I ordered the amatriciana, which was unforgettable—tangy tomato sauce paired with the salty kick of guanciale. A cozy spot where tradition shines through in every bite.
- Flavio al Velavevodetto
- In the Testaccio neighborhood, I enjoyed tonnarelli cacio e pepe. The pasta was cooked to perfection with just the right creaminess from the Pecorino Romano. This restaurant is tucked away but well worth the visit.
- Piatto Romano
- I went for the spaghetti alla gricia, which was simple yet delicious, with the guanciale lending its rich, fatty flavor. It’s a great local spot in Testaccio where you really feel the Roman soul in the food.
- Da Cesare al Casaletto
- Here, I had gnocchi alla romana, a more delicate pasta dish baked with a crispy top and tender center. The neighborhood is away from the hustle, giving a peaceful, local vibe.
- Da Gino al Parlamento
- Nestled near Parliament, I ordered spaghetti alla carbonara, and it did not disappoint. The creamy egg sauce clung to the al dente pasta, and the guanciale added a rich, savory flavor.
- Checchino Dal 1887
- This historic restaurant is where I tried rigatoni with pajata (veal intestines). It was an adventurous choice but a must-try for anyone looking to explore the more traditional dishes of Roman cuisine.
- Tavernaccia Da Bruno
- I had lasagna alla bolognese here. The layers of pasta were perfectly thin and baked with just the right amount of béchamel and meat sauce. It felt like dining with family.
During my trip, I stayed at Hotel de Russie, a luxurious boutique hotel perfectly located near Piazza del Popolo. It had everything a high-end traveler could want—elegant rooms, a stunning courtyard garden, and a relaxing spa. I packed for October’s mild weather, bringing a mix of light layers, a stylish trench coat, comfortable shoes for all the walking, and a few chic dresses for dinners out.
One of my favorite evenings was spent walking through the city and sitting on the Spanish Steps at dusk. The view of Rome from the top was breathtaking, and the atmosphere was magical.
Later in the week, I met a fellow solo female traveler at a café. We instantly clicked and decided to explore some restaurants together, including Flavio al Velavevodetto and Da Gino al Parlamento. It was wonderful to share meals and travel stories.
As for getting around, I mostly walked since Rome is such a walkable city, but I also used taxis and the occasional bus for longer distances. Rome’s public transportation is efficient, though I preferred walking to truly take in the sights.
For more hidden gems in Rome, check out my previous post. Whether you’re exploring on your own or with new friends, Rome’s culinary scene never disappoints!