Carbonara is one of the best pasta dishes ever invented. I love it so much, that I accidentally (on purpose) ate it three days in a row, with #noregrets. While that may not be the most well balanced way to go about it, let’s just say I was on a quest to find the best Carbonara in Rome.
If you are wondering what to eat in Rome, Pasta alla Carbonara is definitely a must try food in Italy. The history of Carbonara is a little murky, but this dish is said to have become popular in the post war era. Newcomers (likely) arriving from Naples brought in this rich style of pasta, which became ultra popular throughout the 50’s and 60’s.
Pasta alla Carbonara is packed with one of most delicious things on earth: savory pork cheek guanciale. The sauce is a combination of (*gasp*) raw eggs, cheese, and pepper, that creates a (just cooked) creamy sauce. It’s altogether downright heavenly.
Last summer I discovered three amazing versions of this classic dish thanks to my Roman husband, who took me on a pasta expedition! Here’s exactly where you can try the Best Carbonara in Rome, for yourself!
1. L’Antica Birreria Peroni
Via di S. Marcello, 19, 00100 Roma RM, Italy
Inside this sweet pink facade, is the birthplace of Peroni beer! Since 1907, L’Antica Birreria Peroni has been serving Romans with traditional fare, including savory Pasta alla Carbonara. This one has a perfectly smooth sauce, with warm crumbles of hearty guanciale. Pair that with a historic Peroni, and what’s not to love?
The place itself stretches the span of two cozy rooms, with delightful frescoes across the ceilings. You’ll definitely want to beat the lunch crowd, or visiting in the late afternoon to avoid a wait. They’re great about getting you in and out, and on with your Rome sightseeing!
2. Da Francesco
Piazza del Fico, 29, 00186 Roma RM, Italy
This neighborhood gem Da Francesco recently underwent a modern renovation, but retained some of the best Carbonara in Rome. The Carbonara sauce is rich and silky, with crispy guanciale, and the perfect amount of pepper.
Da Francesco is a traditional place, that keeps a bustling flow from morning to evening. It’s a great place to end up for an early dinner, after an afternoon of wandering around the nearby fountains of Piazza Navona. Just don’t be too sad if you don’t have room for a gelato afterwards!
3. Bar Trattoria Da Silvan
Largo Eduardo Talamo, 6, 00185 Roma RM, Italy
The Bar Trattoria Da Silvan is just outside of Rome’s center, in the trendy San Lorenzo district. The low key neighborhood serves up healthy portions with perfectly tender guanciale, and plenty of parmiggiano!
Don’t be surprised to see crowds of students dining here, from the nearby Rome’s Sapienza University. It’s reasonable prices and family friendly atmosphere make it a great place to kick back with a delicious plate of some of the Best Carbonara in Rome!
Thanks so much for reading this Italy Travel Guide: Where To Find The Best Carbonara in Rome. Are you heading to Rome soon yourself? If so, know I’m so jelly about all the good things you’re about to get to eat!
And if you are looking for more fun things to do in Rome, check out some of my travel guides, including these 7 Magical Things to see in Villa Borghese Gardens. It’s one of my favorite places in the whole world, and you’ll see why!
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