best restaurant in rome

Dave - when will you be there and what do you consider to be the "true" Roman dining experience? Is it the cuisine or the atmosphere?

There are many classic Roman recipes that can be enjoyed throughout the city without having to go to a Michelin-starred restaurant. Were I there when the weather was warm, I'd want to be eating outside and on a piazza. So, to start off, I'd look around the Piazza Navona or Campo del Fiore. Very touristed, of course, but because those are very beautiful locations.

Thanks for the reply. We're going in September. We want a very good meal with nice atmosphere and a medium pricerange.

We will definately look in those areas.
Thanks,
Dave

Have a great trip, Dave. To help more people know what you mean by a "medium" price range, are you thinking $40 - $75 per persom? Including wine?

yes that sounds about right

Dave:
I would go to the Piazza Navona. Huge plaza with many restaurants and I think you will get definitely get that Roman experience that you are looking for!!! Have fun!!

A great place to eat is at Da Checco er Carrittiere in the Trastevere (in Ricks Rome book). Great back patio, great service, great food! Filled with locals. Just make a reservation, or you might get one of the empty tables inside. The Piazza Navona is great for sitting on the square and enjoying the atmosphere, but you won't find any locals eating there and the food isn't the greatest.

I would go to the Osteria Orso 80 (at 80 via del Orso right next to the Piazza Navona). Review here: http://www.restaurantsomh.com/r26.htm. Order the Antipasto dinner and you get a ridiculous amount of wonderful Antipasti for about 15 euros a person. Afterwards, walk to the Piazza Navona and go into Tres Scalini (walk into the small counter next to the tables) for incredible gelato for a good price, 2 euros for two good size scoops.

I'd suggest La Carbonara on the Campo de Fiori. Some Romans took me there once years ago, and I've always tried to eat there everytime I'm in Rome.

www.la-carbonara.it