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Foodie finds: Rome’s top 5 tiramisu spots you can’t miss

The Mediterranean • Eat & drink • Foodie finds: Rome’s top 5 tiramisu spots you can’t miss

The ultimate guide to Rome’s top tiramisus

Rome is a haven for tiramisu lovers, with countless spots across the city offering their take on the iconic dessert. From traditional recipes to creative twists, each tiramisu serves as a reflection of Italy’s passion for simple, high-quality ingredients. Whether it’s the rich mascarpone cream, espresso-soaked ladyfingers, or unique flavour combinations like pistachio or strawberry, there’s always something to discover. Many establishments focus solely on perfecting this dessert, making it a must-try for visitors looking to indulge in one of Italy’s most beloved sweets. We have picked our favourite go-to’s for a piece of Italian dessert culture.

What is Italian ‘tiramisu’ and why should I get it while in Rome?

Tiramisu, much like gelato, is a gateway into Italian tradition and passion. Though its exact origins are debated, with Venice and Friuli Venezia Giulia both laying claim to its creation, one thing is certain: this coffee-infused treat has won hearts globally.

Rome, a city known for celebrating food with deep historical roots, offers an unforgettable tiramisu experience, often made with mascarpone, espresso-soaked ladyfingers and a light dusting of cocoa powder.

When in Rome, indulging in tiramisu feels like stepping into the pages of Italian culinary history. While modern tiramisu dates back only to the 1960s or 1970s, its popularity exploded thanks to regional adaptations and variations that can be found across Italy. Roman cafés often embrace the traditional recipe but may offer subtle local twists, such as the use of ricotta alongside mascarpone for a lighter texture or a dash of liqueur for extra depth.

Identifying the best place for tiramisu in Rome is similar to the hunt for the perfect gelato: authenticity is key. Look for places that use fresh ingredients without overwhelming gimmicks. Many establishments in Rome still craft tiramisu on-site, preserving the delicate balance between sweet and bitter, soft and rich. Whether served as a traditional layered dessert or as part of a deconstructed modern take, tiramisu in Rome is a testament to Italian culinary excellence, offering a pick-me-up that satisfies both your palate and your sense of tradition.

In essence, tasting tiramisu in Rome is about more than just enjoying a dessert. It’s about connecting to the legacy of Italian cuisine and appreciating the simplicity and elegance of a dish that has evolved but never lost its charm.

Antico Caffè Greco

Antico Caffè Greco, founded in 1760, is Rome’s oldest café, steeped in history and charm. Located on Via dei Condotti, its lavish 18th-century decor features marble tables, plush red velvet chairs and walls adorned with classic artwork. Writers like Shelley, Keats and Goethe once sat here. The café’s tiramisu is a standout, crafted with finesse and served alongside their famous espressos. The desserts, including multiple tiramisu variations, are overseen by experienced chefs, balancing rich tradition with modern twists. Although it’s a pricey spot, you’re paying for an immersive experience into Roman café culture, where history and culinary artistry collide.

Antico Caffè Greco
Via dei Condotti, 86
Rome
Italy

Photography courtesy of Antico Caffè Greco, Rome

Felice a Testaccio

Felice a Testaccio, a Roman culinary icon since 1936, is known for its simplicity and tradition, with rustic decor that echoes old-school Rome. The restaurant’s tiramisu, served in a glass, is definitely a favourite. This version replaces the traditional savoiardi with buttery shortcrust biscuits for added crunch, topped with a rich mascarpone cream and a warm dark chocolate ganache. Chef Salvatore Tiscione’s take on Roman classics keeps locals coming back for dishes like cacio e pepe, but it’s the innovative twist on tiramisu that steals the show. The interior, redesigned to preserve its roots while offering modern comfort, reflects the authenticity of its menu.

Felice a Testaccio
Via Mastro Giorgio, 29
Rome
Italy

Photography courtesy of Felice a Testaccio

Merisù

Merisu, tucked in Rome’s fun Trastevere neighbourhood, is a delightful spot dedicated to one thing – tiramisu. This intimate café specialises in preparing the dessert fresh on-site, offering flavours ranging from the classic version to more inventive options like pistachio, Nutella and Pan di Stelle. Chef Meri’s legacy, inspired by her grandmother’s recipes, shines through each dish, making Merisu’s tiramisù a must-try for any dessert lover. The cosy atmosphere, with its warm, inviting decor, adds to the café’s charm, providing a perfect hideaway for indulgence.

Merisù
Via di S. Francesco a Ripa, 29
Rome
Italy

Photography courtesy of Merisù

Da Enzo al 29

Da Enzo al 29, located in Trastevere, is an authentic Roman trattoria known for its simple, high-quality dishes. Run by the Di Felice family, the restaurant is a local favourite and has charmed us on multiple occasions, offering traditional Roman fare like cacio e pepe and carbonara. But it’s their tiramisu that often steals the spotlight. Made with layers of rich mascarpone cream and dark cocoa, it’s a perfect ending to a hearty meal. Chef Roberto Di Felice is passionate about using only the finest ingredients, creating a homely yet vibrant dining experience. The decor is no-frills, with checkered tablecloths and bottles of wine lining the walls, capturing the spirit of classic Rome.

Da Enzo
Via dei Vascellari, 29,
Rome
Italy

Photography courtesy of Da Enzo

Two Sizes

Two Sizes, located in Rome’s Rione VI Parione, is famed for its tiramisu, offering a variety of flavours like pistachio, strawberry and caramel. Each tiramisu is served in portable cups in, as the name suggests, two sizes. The classic tiramisu balances perfectly between rich mascarpone cream and the bold flavour of espresso-soaked ladyfingers. For a twist, the pistachio version stands out with its nutty, velvety texture. The small, minimalist shop focuses on takeaways, but its creative spins on this beloved dessert have earned it a solid reputation.