Where to Eat Near the Vatican
For two weeks this past fall, I stayed in Prati, the neighborhood just north of the Vatican and ate very well. I imagine that you could easily eat disappointing meals if you are lured into a restaurant with picture menus and giant portions on display.
First of all, Mercato Trionfale is a gem! There are over 200 vendors, so your options are nearly limitless if you are looking for fresh produce, meat, seafood, or pasta to prepare yourself or want something already cooked. You can even pick up souvenirs like dried porcini mushrooms, olive or truffle oil, and vacuum-sealed cheese.
If you are planning to eat out, here are my favorite places in Prati. I visited most of them several times, so I can vouch for consistency.
1. Artigiano del Caffe
This adorable micro-roasting cafe in Prati is a must-stop in the morning. I hope I don’t get banned from Italy for admitting this, but I attempted to order a decaf cappuccino (my go-to). I know, I know . . . you’ll be comforted by the fact that these artisans were having none of that. So, I ordered a regular cappuccino and an incredibly flaky, buttery cornetto.
Artigiano del Caffe is beautifully decorated and cozy, the perfect ambiance for relaxing and enjoying your little indulgence.
2. Vero Food Prati
This is a fantastic stop for breakfast or lunch. The pastries at Vero Food were lovely. My friend and I had the soup-of-the-day and a sandwich (panino) for lunch after an afternoon of shopping at Coin Excelsior.
3. Guttilla
I am usually convinced that the universe is on my side, but I have evidence to the contrary. I spent two weeks, two whole weeks, in an apartment a 10-minute walk from the creamiest, dreamiest gelato and didn’t know about it until my LAST DAY IN ROME. Whyyyy?? Whyyyy? Obviously, it was a tease so that I would have no choice but to return to Rome. Okay, universe, I see you.
I opted for Torta della Nonna and Modica chocolate. It doesn’t matter what flavor you get…that texture!
4. Hosteria Pizzeria Giacomelli
What a gem of a place! Hosteria Pizzeria Giacomelli was a recommendation from an Airbnb host. Crispy, Roman-style pizza. Seafood. Pasta. The fritto misto at the neighboring table was enviable. The pizza toppings were generous. The zucchini appetizer was *chef’s kiss*. I tried to order more food, but the waiter wouldn’t let me. He grabbed the menu out of my hand and even switched to English to admonish me, “No, that’s enough.”
He was absolutely right. There was no need for more!
5. Iamotti Gelato
This is another great gelato shop in Prati. They also serve cakes, pastries, macarons, canoli, and other sweets.
6. Habibi Tunisian
Habibi Tunisian is an exquisite departure from Italian fare if you’re in the mood to mix it up. The setting is bright and intimate, and the staff is friendly. The salad mezze plate was divine.
7. BaoBao
I ate at BaoBao three times in two weeks. This is a bustling place in Prati where dumplings are handmade following traditional recipes from southern and northern China. You can even watch the chefs preparing dumplings at the counter near the entrance.
Just go here. Order one of everything. You will keep going back. I promise.
8. Antico Falcone
In full disclosure, I did not eat here on my trip, but Antico Falcone was recommended to me by two locals and gets solid reviews. The trattoria serves traditional Roman fare and has sidewalk and indoor seating.