Addendum: The Spartacus Guide to the Best Plebeian Restaurants in Rome

We were blessed to return to Rome this fall for a six week visit. It never gets old! Dining is always major priority and we combine visits to “old favourites” with hopefully adventuresome exploration of new “spots”, usually recommended to us by local Roman friends and colleagues. We discovered some winners and are pleased to supplement our previously posted (August 5,2024) Spartacus Guide to the Best Plebeian Restaurants in Rome. This category is broad but focuses on traditional Roman restaurants that stand a cut above your generic eatery. We don’t make it a competition and we don’t eliminate restaurants from our original top 25. Instead, we ADD to it- providing even more options for all. Our criteria for inclusion is detailed in our original posting and we urge you to re-acquaint yourself with our approach. Our new “stars” are:

1) Il Gabriello; Via Vittoria 51.

Owned and operated by the Conti family- four generations of excellence and going strong. An insider’s favourite - limited signage- beautiful people vibe- great food and creative menu. Close to Spanish Steps.

2) Trattoria Monti: Via di s Vito 13. 

Actually in Esquilino; very compact and intimate; a tough reservation; food is hearty and user friendly. Le Marche region cuisine.

3) Osteria de Memmo: Via dei Soldati 22/23.

Tough to find sidestreet; owner could have starred in The Sopranos; loyal local following; great Bucatini Amatriciana ; reasonably priced wine list; great for a long and leisurely lunch

4) Ristorante Al Pompiere: Piazza delle Cinque Scola 28.

Run by the charming Monteverdi family since 1928; basic- not a big budget for decorating; great Jewish artichokes, cod filets and penne all arrabbiata ; cool Piazza Mattei location.

5) Poldo e Gianna Osteria: Vicolo Rosini 6/7.

Close to Parliament- lots of fellows in suits and ties; cool outside terrace; great wine list; gracious owner gave us tour; a Michelin choice- very refined cooking- a special destination- tiny street.

6) Ristorante Agrodolce: Piazza dei Crociteri 25. 

Good non touristy choice close to Trevi fountain; great service; great Carbonara; tight quarters but very solid indeed.

7) Diandra: Via de Leoncino 28. 

Very elegant atmosphere; amazing service; Diandra the owner engages her guests: good choice for seafood; bread wonderful- served complimentary with cherry tomatoes.