8 Hidden Gems in Rome, Italy

When you hear “Rome,” you probably think of Vespas, gelato, ancient ruins, and iconic art like Caravaggio’s paintings and The Lizzie McGuire Movie. While this depiction is actually pretty accurate, there’s also some easy mistakes you can make along those medieval cobblestone roads; we call those mistakes tourist traps.

After spending three months as a student in Rome in 2019, and two weeks of vacation time in Rome in 2021, I’ve made those mistakes and learned from them; and I’ve found the places that actually have good vibes and good food (trust me, I’m half Italian).

Ristorante del Passegero

My best friend and I actually found this place by chance; we like to get off of the metro train at a random stop and look around until we find somewhere that passes the vibe check. This place blew the vibe check out of the water.

Though it’s located near the international travel hub of Termini, this restaurant feels classy and private as it is located on a side-street looking at an ancient ruin and Palazzo Massimo. The live music brought us back for a second dinner, as did the house-original cocktails and some salmon that I wish I could’ve brought home to meet my mother. I highly recommend coming here at nighttime for a relaxing, jazzy, elegant dinner at a reasonable price.

Pico’s

If you’re looking for a more casual spot, Pico’s is the perfect place. I thought the best tacos I ever had were in Southern California (considering I haven’t been to Mexico yet), but these are honestly the best tacos I’ve ever had (and yes, I know it’s weird to find great tacos in Rome - you’re welcome).

Located in Trastevere, a neighborhood teeming with college students from all over the world, I think of this area as the “Lower East Side of Rome” in comparison to NYU’s vibe, though it’s technically the Lower West Side of Rome. It also has that local, home-like feeling and Romans that make it all the more true; The owner of Pico’s even told me about the next place!

Voodoo Bar

Voodoo Bar was not a place I was expecting to find in Rome. The tropical island theme and different sections of this outdoor venue including a candlelit entrance, wicker bars, a pool, comfortable outdoor lounging including beds, dancing space, vendors with many international cuisines, and “healing area” (hello messages and yoga), make this place totally unique.

This is definitely a locals’ spot and everyone pretty much only spoke Roman Italian, which is thankfully the dialect I’m familiar with, so I was able to make some friends via Itanglish (Italian English)! This is a fantastic spot to spend a warm night with friends or a romantic partner, and while it may not have the classic Italian vibes you’re looking for, it’s sure to provide you with a great night and an Italian language lesson.

Hedera Reggae Cafe

We all want to be in Italy, and Italians apparently want to be in the islands. This laid-back reggae-playing cafe run by (cute) twin brothers is tucked away on a side street off of Via del Corso, and the menu is strife with options.

I’m a fan of the espresso martini here - if you’re going to drink quality espresso anywhere, it’s in this region of the world. Since you’ll get a sassy glance for trying to buy an iced coffee anywhere south of Milan, a martini is a great excuse to have it chilled. And yes, there have times my friends asked for an iced coffee at an Italian restaurant and received a hot espresso with an ice cube… when in Rome, just do as the Romans do.

Oro Rooftop

Mamma mia, this view. I can’t believe I didn’t know about this place when I lived here for 3 months, but I’m so happy I’ve gone now; there’s a stunning view of ancient ruins and Altare della Patria (Altar of the Fatherland), the massive ancient-temple inspired monument of King Vittorio Emanuele II. This is all a long way of saying that I felt like we were playing princesses.

The food was fantastic and only a little expensive, but eating it during sunset kept me from even noticing. Give a try to the truffle pasta or salmon (big salmon girl here).

Babington's Tea Room

This gem isn't hidden, but I couldn't go on without mentioning their cheese cake - it's like kissing an angel on a fluffy cloud. While it's at an obvious tourist spot at the bottom of the Spanish Steps, it's surprisingly fantastic quality. The interior is a British Victorian trip and sitting outdoors in the beautiful Piazza with a view of a Bernini fountain is delightful as well.

Two Sizes Tiramisu

Tucked back behind some winding cobblestone paths is this delicious dessert spot. Yes, there’s only two sizes of tiramisu (and cannoli), and yes, I should have ordered the bigger size.

With several flavor options including chocolate, pistachio, and fruity, you’re sure to find something that makes your tongue happy. This was one of my hottest days ever roaming this city, and considering I was alone and dizzy from heat, this tiramisu tasted like it was sent by God herself.

Cafe Ciampini (rooftop)

While this spot is closely located to the top of the Spanish Steps, it’s hidden behind enough plants to keep it lowkey. It’s close to the peaceful Villa Borghese and proposes a similar elevated view of the rooftops, and the grilled salmon (of course) went hard, as did bestie’s chocolate raspberry cheesecake, which I stole a few bites of.

I’m so happy I discovered the eternal city from a new point of view, and hopefully you do the same!