The Mediterranean Insider

Rome, Italy

Trastevere’s 5 best restaurants (and must-try dishes)

The Mediterranean • Eat & drink • Trastevere’s 5 best restaurants (and must-try dishes)

The guide to Trastevere’s best restaurants

Trastevere, a historic neighbourhood on the west bank of the Tiber River, is one of Rome’s most vibrant and culturally rich areas. Known for its narrow, cobbled streets and colourful buildings, the district has a long history rooted in working-class traditions. Once a humble enclave, Trastevere is now a lively hub. Today, it is a magnet for locals and tourists drawn to its history, charming atmosphere and culinary offerings. The neighbourhood’s dining scene features traditional Roman cuisine, served in family-run trattorias alongside Michelin-starred establishments, all celebrating fresh, local ingredients and time-honoured recipes.

Glass Hostaria

Located in Rome’s Trastevere neighbourhood, Glass Hostaria offers a lovely blend of modern architecture and culinary innovation. The restaurant, led by Michelin-starred chef Cristina Bowerman, features a contemporary interior with high ceilings, a dark and dramatic colour palette with gold accents that create a sleek atmosphere. The cuisine is a fusion of traditional Italian dishes and international influences, reflecting Bowerman’s global culinary journey. Signature offerings include beef tartare with watermelon and Wagyu bresaola, and amberjack sashimi with beet miso and leche de tigre.

Glass Hostaria
Vicolo del Cinque, 58
Rome
Italy

Photography courtesy of Glass Hostaria

Zia

Michelin-starred restaurant Zia is led by chef Antonio Ziantoni. The interior is sleek and minimalistic, focusing on a contemporary design that enhances the intimate dining atmosphere. The cuisine combines Italian tradition with international influences, presenting refined dishes that are rooted in seasonality. Signature dishes include cold spaghetti and duck in a dolce e forte sauce. Zia’s bar offers a curated selection of fine wines, carefully chosen to complement the evolving menu. Our verdict is that Zia delivers a modern and comforting dining experience in true Italian style.

Zia
Via Goffredo Mameli, 45
Rome
Italy

Photography courtesy of Zia

L’Osteria della Trippa

L’Osteria della Trippa may be small, but comes across as a vibrant and popular restaurant that offers an authentic taste of Roman cuisine. Run by chef Alessandra Ruggeri, the restaurant focuses on traditional dishes rooted in her memories of family meals in the Roman countryside. The cosy interior reflects the intimate dining experience, accommodating just over 30 guests. Specialities include trippa alla Romana, a Roman-style tripe dish, and other hearty offerings like pallotte cacio e ova and coda alla vaccinara. The wine list is thoughtfully curated, highlighting small local wineries.

L’Osteria della Trippa
Via Goffredo Mameli, 15/16
Rome
Italy

Photography courtesy of L’Osteria della trippa

Antica Pesa

Antica Pesa offers a refined Roman culinary tradition infused with modern techniques. The restaurant has been run by the Panella family since 1922, focusing on seasonal ingredients and reinterpreted Roman recipes. The interior is elegant, with large contemporary paintings and a cosy lounge by the fireplace. Signature dishes include classic Roman dishes like cacio e pepe and carbonara, prepared with high-quality local ingredients. The restaurant also boasts an extensive wine cellar with over 1,100 labels.

Antica Pesa
Via Garibaldi, 18
Rome
Italy

Photography courtesy of Antica Pesa

Da Enzo al 29

This charming trattoria is well known for its authentic Roman dishes and lively atmosphere. The small eatery, with traditional checkered tablecloths in true Italian style and a handful of outdoor tables, offers a cosy dining experience that feels like a family gathering. The menu focuses on traditional Roman fare, with favourites such as carbonara, cacio e pepe and crispy fried artichokes. The restaurant is also known for its indulgent tiramisu, which features delightful Nutella accents. Da Enzo’s emphasis on fresh, local ingredients ensures a simple yet flavourful meal, making us come back for more on every visit to Rome.