Rome isn’t just about ancient ruins and historical landmarks. It’s a haven for food lovers! Just like the saying goes, when in Rome, do as the Romans do – and that includes indulging in the city’s gastronomic delights. Prepare to pack an extra suitcase, because you’ll be leaving with an abundance of delicious goodies after exploring the best food shops in Rome!
A City Overflowing with Culinary Treasures
Rome is a food shopping paradise for both locals and travelers alike. From bustling markets to cozy mom-and-pop shops, the city offers an incredible selection of premium Italian gourmet foods.
Whether you’re strolling through the vibrant stalls of San Giovanni di Dio, Testaccio, or Circo Massimo or exploring hidden gems tucked away in quaint alleyways, you’re guaranteed to discover culinary treasures that will tantalize your taste buds.
Discover the Essence of Rome’s Food Culture
One of the best places to start your culinary journey is at Antica Caciara, a Trastevere institution that embodies the true essence of Roman food culture. As you step inside, the rich aroma of sharp, sheepy pecorino will envelop you, instantly transporting you to a world of authentic flavors.
This is the real deal – pecorino romano DOP, produced on small farms outside of Rome, using traditional methods that have been passed down for generations. The friendly proprietor, Roberto, will happily share his passion for cheese and help you choose the perfect piece to take home.
A Journey Through Italy’s Wine Regions
No cheese lover’s journey is complete without a visit to Bernabei, one of Rome’s most prominent wine merchants. This beloved establishment boasts several locations throughout the city, offering an impressive selection of wines from every region of Italy.
From sparkling Prosecco from Venice to robust Lambrusco from Emilia, you’ll find a bottle that perfectly complements your culinary adventure. Bernabei also offers an extensive online store, allowing you to bring the taste of Italy back home.
Volpetti: A Food Lover’s Paradise
For a truly unforgettable food shopping experience, head to Volpetti, a legendary Testaccio institution that’s easily one of the best food shops in Rome. Walking through its doors is like stepping into a Renaissance still life, with hanging prosciutti casting shadows on piles of peppercorn-studded cheeses.
The shelves and fridges are overflowing with Italian culinary delights, from freshly made burrata to an array of dried pasta shapes. A must-try is the cured meat, particularly the cinta senese pork salami, an ancient Tuscan breed known for its incredible flavor.
Indulge in Roman Pastry Delights
No culinary exploration of Rome is complete without experiencing the city’s delectable pastries. While freshly baked cornetti and decadent rum babas are best enjoyed right where they’re made, Innocenti, a charming pastry shop in Trastevere, offers a unique opportunity to bring a taste of Rome back home.
Innocenti’s cookies are small and refined, with buttery shortbreads dotted with jam or dipped in chocolate, and classic biscotti bursting with almonds and sugar. These delicious treats will be a delightful reminder of your Italian adventure.
Beyond the Ordinary: Discover Roman Jewish Cuisine
Step outside the traditional culinary path and discover the unique culinary heritage of Rome’s Jewish community at Pascarella, a kosher butcher in south Trastevere. This establishment offers a glimpse into a world of kosher cured meats that have been cherished for centuries.
Pascarella’s salame kasher is made with kosher beef, giving it a stronger, leaner flavor, while the carne secca, air-dried beef, has a texture reminiscent of prosciutto. Both these delicacies offer a uniquely Roman experience that your guests will never forget.
The Perfect Finish: A Taste of Italy’s Olive Oils
Finally, no trip to Rome would be complete without indulging in the rich and flavorful olive oils that Italy has to offer. At Sapor D’Olio, you’ll find a treasure trove of olive oils from across the country, each with its own unique characteristics and flavor profile.
From the spicy oils of Puglia to the buttery mild varieties produced outside of Rome, you’ll find an olive oil that perfectly complements your palate. Savor the experience of tasting different varieties and bring home a bottle of the good stuff to enjoy long after your trip.
Join us on our Testaccio Neighborhood Food & Market Tour, and discover the true essence of Roman food culture. This immersive experience takes you beyond the tourist trail, allowing you to meet passionate local artisans who embody the rich history and culture of the neighborhood. You’ll also have the chance to visit one of our favorite gourmet shops in town (hint: it’s one of these!).
This post was updated on January 17, 2023.
