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In-Destination Travel Expert Tips

Navigating Restaurants in Rome

So you have your trip planned, but do you know how to eat at a restaurant in Rome, Italy? A few small details can help make your trip so much more relaxed. In this post we’ll talk about whether or not you need reservations in Rome, how to order at a restaurant in Italy, what to expect from your dining experience, plus the Italian names of a few dishes you have to try while traveling in the Eternal City.
 
One of the most daunting things in a foreign country can be eating out at a local restaurant. When everyone is speaking a different language and the menu is different than what you’re used to, it can be very overwhelming.
Something that might make your trip more convenient is having euros on hand with you. Not only is it much easier to pay that way in restaurants and stores, but it’s good to have in case of an emergency. 
 
The first thing to do would be to make a reservation. In America, it’s not common to make a reservation at a restaurant, unless you’re going out for a special occasion somewhere expensive. But in Rome, almost all restaurants take reservations, and it would be a wise idea to do so. They can get very busy, even during the work week. Once they fill up on reservations, it’s pretty much impossible to get in, as reservations ensure the party can dine for hours. To make sure you are actually able to eat there, it’s recommended you call or email before you go. 
 
Another tip that you have probably heard is that Italians eat dinner much later than Americans. While we can begin eating dinner as early as 5:00 or 5:30pm, Italians, at the earliest, will start eating around 7pm. Although you can absolutely eat whenever you want, you’ll find restaurants to be much more lively the later you go. 
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As with all reservations, it would be best to get there a bit early. If you don’t know Italian, it’s a good idea to learn some of the basics before you go. Though most Italians do speak English, they still appreciate any effort made to speak their language. The most helpful phrases would be hello and goodbye (ciao can be used for both), I would like (vorrei), please (per favore), and thank you (grazie). You’ll find many words will already sound familiar, as the language crosses over quite a bit with Spanish. 
 
You’ll be seated, and the waiter will give you some time to look at the menu. If you want water, you’ll have to ask for it, then specify what kind you would like- sparkling water is the default unless you say still water. Water also isn’t free, so keep that in mind when you see a three euro charge for it on your bill. Another charge you should be aware of is a service charge. It’s only one euro per person, but you’ll almost always be charged for sitting in the restaurant. 
 
The waiter will come back, and you can order any drinks you like, whether water, cocktails, or wine. Be sure to order all of your drinks first, even if you’re ready to order food. Most waiters prefer to write down all drink orders before hearing what food you would like. 
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Rome is known for four different types of pasta: carbonara, cacio e pepe, amatriciana, and pasta alla gricia. These will be available to get at almost every single restaurant in Rome. I would highly recommend trying these while you’re there, or at least a couple of them. 
 
Once your food arrives, take your time and enjoy your meal. The waiters expect anyone dining there to be there for a long period of time, so there’s no rush to hurry out. If you need a waiter, you’ll have to get their attention, as once your food arrives, waiters tend to leave you alone to enjoy your meal. If you wait for them to come check on you, you might be waiting forever.
Finally, after dessert (tiramisu is recommended of course), you can ask for the check. Restaurants in Rome will rarely split the bill, and even if you ask for it, some will say they’re not able to. Plan ahead for who should pay and how they’re going to pay.
 
Be sure to thank the staff on your way out, and you’ve done it! Though it seems intimidating, it’s very easy to get used to, and is very similar to ordering food anywhere. Just be polite and patient with the waiters, and you’ll have a great experience.
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