Piazza Navona, one of Rome’s most iconic and charming squares, is a food lover’s paradise. This historic piazza, built on the site of the ancient Roman Stadium of Domitian, is a treasure trove of culinary delights, from traditional Italian cuisine to modern fusion restaurants. With its picturesque fountains, beautiful architecture, and lively atmosphere, Piazza Navona is the perfect place to indulge in a delicious meal or snack. In this comprehensive guide, we will explore the best places to eat in Piazza Navona, from classic trattorias to trendy bars and cafes.
Classic Trattorias
Trattorias are a staple of Italian cuisine, offering traditional dishes in a cozy and welcoming atmosphere. In Piazza Navona, you’ll find several classic trattorias that serve up delicious meals and drinks. Here are a few recommendations:
La Rosetta
La Rosetta is a Michelin-starred restaurant located in the heart of Piazza Navona. This elegant trattoria offers a range of traditional Italian dishes, including pasta, seafood, and meat options. Their menu changes seasonally, but be sure to try their famous carbonara and amatriciana.
- Pasta dishes: carbonara, amatriciana, cacio e pepe
- Seafood options: seafood risotto, grilled fish
- Meat options: osso buco, braised beef
La Gensola
La Gensola is a charming trattoria located in the heart of Piazza Navona. This cozy restaurant offers a range of traditional Italian dishes, including pasta, pizza, and meat options. Their menu is simple, but their food is delicious and authentic.
- Pasta dishes: spaghetti aglio e olio, fettuccine Alfredo
- Pizza options: margherita, quattro formaggi
- Meat options: grilled chicken, pork chops
Il Pagliaccio
Il Pagliaccio is a two-Michelin-starred restaurant located in the heart of Piazza Navona. This elegant restaurant offers a range of traditional Italian dishes, including pasta, seafood, and meat options. Their menu changes seasonally, but be sure to try their famous risotto and osso buco.
- Pasta dishes: risotto alla pescatora, fettuccine with truffles
- Seafood options: grilled fish, seafood risotto
- Meat options: osso buco, braised beef
Modern Fusion Restaurants
While traditional trattorias are a staple of Italian cuisine, modern fusion restaurants offer a unique and exciting twist on classic dishes. In Piazza Navona, you’ll find several modern fusion restaurants that blend traditional Italian flavors with international ingredients and techniques. Here are a few recommendations:
Il Margutta
Il Margutta is a modern fusion restaurant located in the heart of Piazza Navona. This trendy restaurant offers a range of creative dishes, including pasta, seafood, and meat options. Their menu changes seasonally, but be sure to try their famous pasta dishes and seafood options. (See Also: Where to Eat in Hong Kong 2024? Top Culinary Spots)
- Pasta dishes: squid ink spaghetti, truffle fettuccine
- Seafood options: grilled fish, seafood risotto
- Meat options: grilled steak, pork chops
La Grotta
La Grotta is a modern fusion restaurant located in the heart of Piazza Navona. This cozy restaurant offers a range of creative dishes, including pasta, pizza, and meat options. Their menu is simple, but their food is delicious and authentic.
- Pasta dishes: spaghetti aglio e olio, fettuccine Alfredo
- Pizza options: margherita, quattro formaggi
- Meat options: grilled chicken, pork chops
Cafes and Bars
Cafes and bars are a great place to relax and people-watch in Piazza Navona. Here are a few recommendations:
Caffè Sant’Eustachio
Caffè Sant’Eustachio is a historic cafe located in the heart of Piazza Navona. This charming cafe offers a range of coffee drinks, pastries, and snacks. Be sure to try their famous coffee and cornetto (Italian croissant).
- Coffee drinks: espresso, cappuccino, latte
- Pastries: cornetto, croissant, muffin
- Snacks: panini, sandwiches
Bar della Fontana
Bar della Fontana is a trendy bar located in the heart of Piazza Navona. This modern bar offers a range of cocktails, wine, and beer. Be sure to try their famous Aperol spritz and enjoy the beautiful views of the piazza.
- Cocktails: Aperol spritz, Negroni, Bellini
- Wine: Italian whites and reds
- Beer: Italian lagers and ales
Street Food
Street food is a great way to experience the flavors of Italy in a casual and affordable way. In Piazza Navona, you’ll find several street food vendors that offer a range of delicious snacks and meals. Here are a few recommendations: (See Also: Where to Eat in Tsim Sha Tsui? Culinary Delights Await)
Supplizio
Supplizio is a popular street food vendor located in the heart of Piazza Navona. This casual vendor offers a range of delicious supplì (fried risotto balls filled with mozzarella) and other snacks.
- Supplì: fried risotto balls filled with mozzarella
- Other snacks: panzerotti, arancini
Trapizzino
Trapizzino is a popular street food vendor located in the heart of Piazza Navona. This casual vendor offers a range of delicious trapizzino (triangular pizza pockets filled with various ingredients).
- Trapizzino: triangular pizza pockets filled with various ingredients
- Other snacks: panzerotti, arancini
Recap
In this comprehensive guide, we’ve explored the best places to eat in Piazza Navona, from classic trattorias to modern fusion restaurants, cafes, and bars, and street food vendors. Whether you’re looking for traditional Italian cuisine or a modern twist on classic dishes, Piazza Navona has something for everyone. Be sure to try some of the recommendations above and enjoy the beautiful views and lively atmosphere of this iconic piazza.
FAQs
Where is the best place to eat in Piazza Navona?
What are the most popular restaurants in Piazza Navona?
The most popular restaurants in Piazza Navona include La Rosetta, La Gensola, and Il Pagliaccio. These restaurants offer a range of traditional Italian dishes and modern fusion cuisine.
What is the best time to visit Piazza Navona?
The best time to visit Piazza Navona is during the day, when the sun is shining and the piazza is bustling with activity. In the evening, the piazza is beautifully lit and offers a romantic atmosphere.
Can I find vegetarian and vegan options in Piazza Navona?
Yes, many restaurants in Piazza Navona offer vegetarian and vegan options. Be sure to ask your server for recommendations and to let them know about any dietary restrictions. (See Also: Where to Eat in Hagerstown Md? Flavorful Finds)
Is Piazza Navona a good place for families?
Piazza Navona is a great place for families, with many restaurants and cafes offering kid-friendly menus and activities. Be sure to ask your server for recommendations and to let them know about any special requests.
Can I find gluten-free options in Piazza Navona?
Yes, many restaurants in Piazza Navona offer gluten-free options. Be sure to ask your server for recommendations and to let them know about any dietary restrictions.