Discover Rome's Best Affordable Dining and Drinking Spots

Rome is a city that tantalizes the senses and captures the heart. From its ancient ruins to its vibrant streets, there's always something to explore. But let’s be honest, one of the best parts about visiting Rome is the food and drink. If you're on a budget, don't worry—Rome offers a plethora of affordable dining and drinking options that will leave you satisfied without breaking the bank. Here’s a guide to some of the best cheap eats and drinks in the Eternal City.

Pizza al Taglio: Rome's Slice of Heaven

Pizza al Taglio (pizza by the slice) is a staple in Rome and an excellent way to enjoy delicious, budget-friendly food. Here are a few spots you shouldn’t miss:

1. Pizzarium

Located near the Vatican, Pizzarium is a must-visit. Known for its gourmet toppings and crispy crust, this place is often hailed as one of the best pizza al taglio spots in Rome. The owner, Gabriele Bonci, is a celebrity in the pizza world, and his creations do not disappoint. With a variety of toppings from classic margherita to more adventurous options like potato and rosemary, Pizzarium is a feast for the senses.

2. Pizza Zizza

Also close to the Vatican, Pizza Zizza is another fantastic spot for pizza by the slice. This place is known for its friendly service and extensive menu, offering everything from traditional slices to inventive creations. Grab a few different slices and enjoy them with a cold beer or a glass of house wine.

3. Antico Forno Roscioli

A short walk from Campo de' Fiori, Antico Forno Roscioli is a historic bakery offering delicious pizza al taglio. Their pizza bianca (white pizza) is especially famous, and their suppli (fried rice balls) are a perfect accompaniment. This bakery has been serving locals and tourists alike for generations, and it's easy to see why.

Trattorias: Affordable Traditional Dining

Trattorias are family-run restaurants offering home-style Italian cooking. They are perfect for enjoying a hearty meal without spending a fortune.

4. Trattoria Da Enzo al 29

Located in the charming Trastevere neighborhood, Trattoria Da Enzo al 29 is a beloved spot for both locals and tourists. Known for its cozy atmosphere and traditional Roman dishes like cacio e pepe and amatriciana, this trattoria is the place to go for an authentic dining experience. Be sure to try their carciofi alla giudia (Jewish-style artichokes) when they’re in season.

5. Osteria der Belli

Also in Trastevere, Osteria der Belli is a seafood-focused trattoria with reasonable prices. The seafood pasta dishes are a highlight, as is their friendly service. The outdoor seating area is perfect for people-watching while enjoying a leisurely meal.

6. Trattoria Vecchia Roma

Near Termini Station, Trattoria Vecchia Roma is famous for its amatriciana served in a cheese wheel. This is a must-try dish, rich and flavorful, without being overly expensive. The trattoria also offers a variety of other Roman specialties, making it a great spot for those looking to sample a bit of everything.

Enotecas: Wine Bars with Charm

An enoteca is a wine bar where you can enjoy a glass of wine along with some delicious snacks. Rome has plenty of these charming spots where you can sip on excellent wine without spending too much.

7. Ai Tre Scalini

Located in the Monti neighborhood, Ai Tre Scalini is a cozy enoteca known for its extensive wine list and delightful small plates. The atmosphere is relaxed, with friendly staff and a warm ambiance. Try their cheese and meat platters, which pair perfectly with a glass of Italian wine.

8. Il Goccetto

Near Campo de' Fiori, Il Goccetto is one of Rome’s oldest wine bars. With its rustic charm and vast selection of wines by the glass, it’s a perfect spot for an affordable night out. The bar snacks, including bruschetta and marinated olives, are excellent accompaniments to your wine.

9. Freni e Frizioni

In Trastevere, Freni e Frizioni is a popular spot for aperitivo. With a vibrant atmosphere and a great selection of cocktails and wines, this bar offers a generous buffet of snacks with your drink purchase. It’s a fantastic way to enjoy a light dinner without spending much.

Gelaterias: Sweet Treats on a Budget

No trip to Rome is complete without indulging in some gelato. Thankfully, there are many gelaterias offering delicious and affordable treats.

10. Gelateria del Teatro

Situated near Piazza Navona, Gelateria del Teatro is known for its high-quality ingredients and creative flavors. Try the rosemary honey and lemon or the sage and raspberry. This gelateria offers a delightful experience that won’t break the bank.

11. Giolitti

One of the oldest and most famous gelaterias in Rome, Giolitti, located near the Pantheon, is a must-visit. The portions are generous, and the flavors range from classic chocolate and vanilla to more adventurous options like rice pudding and champagne. Despite its fame, the prices are reasonable.

12. Fatamorgana

Fatamorgana is a chain of gelaterias in Rome known for its natural ingredients and innovative flavors. With multiple locations around the city, it’s easy to find one nearby. Their gelato is gluten-free, making it a great option for those with dietary restrictions.

Markets: Fresh and Affordable Bites

Rome's markets are fantastic places to experience local flavors without spending a lot. Here are a couple you should check out:

13. Mercato Testaccio

Testaccio Market is a foodie paradise with numerous stalls offering fresh produce, meats, cheeses, and ready-to-eat meals. It’s a great place to grab a quick, affordable bite. Be sure to try Trapizzino, a unique Roman street food that combines pizza dough with various fillings.

14. Campo de' Fiori Market

This historic market is bustling with vendors selling everything from fresh fruits and vegetables to meats and cheeses. It's an excellent spot to pick up some ingredients for a picnic or to sample some local snacks. Don’t miss the porchetta sandwiches, which are a local favorite.

Bars and Pubs: Affordable Drinks and Good Times

Rome’s nightlife doesn’t have to be expensive. Here are a few bars and pubs where you can enjoy a good drink without spending too much.

15. Bar San Calisto

Located in Trastevere, Bar San Calisto is a beloved institution among locals and visitors alike. This no-frills bar offers cheap drinks and a laid-back atmosphere. It’s the perfect place to enjoy a cold beer or a glass of wine after a day of exploring.

16. Ma Che Siete Venuti a Fà

Also in Trastevere, Ma Che Siete Venuti a Fà is a cozy craft beer bar with a fantastic selection of local and international brews. The prices are reasonable, and the staff is knowledgeable and friendly. It's a great spot for beer enthusiasts looking to try something new.

17. Open Baladin

Near Campo de' Fiori, Open Baladin is a trendy bar offering a wide range of craft beers and delicious bar snacks. The vibrant atmosphere and extensive beer menu make it a popular spot for a night out. Despite its popularity, the prices are still affordable.

Cafes: Affordable Coffee and Snacks

Start your day or take a break at one of Rome’s charming cafes. Here are some spots where you can enjoy a good coffee and snack without spending too much.

18. Sant’Eustachio Il Caffè

Near the Pantheon, Sant’Eustachio Il Caffè is famous for its delicious coffee. It’s a great place to start your day with a cappuccino and a pastry. The prices are reasonable, especially considering the quality of the coffee.

19. Caffè Tazza d’Oro

Also near the Pantheon, Caffè Tazza d’Oro is another iconic coffee shop in Rome. Their granita di caffè (coffee granita) is a must-try, especially on a hot day. The prices are fair, making it a perfect spot for a quick caffeine fix.

20. Panella

Located near Termini Station, Panella is a bakery and café offering a wide range of pastries, sandwiches, and coffee. The quality is top-notch, and the prices are affordable. It’s an excellent place for breakfast or a light lunch.

Food Trucks: Street Food Delights

Rome’s food truck scene has been growing, offering delicious and affordable eats on the go. Here are a couple of notable food trucks you should look out for:

21. L'Apulia

L'Apulia is a food truck specializing in Apulian street food. Their panzerotti (fried dough stuffed with various fillings) are a must-try. It’s a great option for a quick and satisfying meal without spending too much.

22. Pizza e Mortazza

This food truck offers a unique twist on the traditional pizza sandwich. The pizza is filled with mortadella, a beloved Italian cold cut, and it’s absolutely delicious. It’s an affordable and tasty option for a quick bite while exploring the city.

Picnic Spots: Enjoying Rome’s Parks

One of the best ways to experience Rome's culinary delights without breaking the bank is to have a picnic in one of the city's beautiful parks. Not only is this a budget-friendly option, but it also allows you to soak in the local atmosphere and enjoy the city's natural beauty.