Best Street Food Rome: Top 10 Eats on the Streets

Ready to taste the best street food Rome, Italy, offers? I’ve got your culinary adventure covered!

From ancient Roman snacks to creative modern inventions, I’ve got the best street foods to try in Rome and the best places to eat them!

If you’re visiting the Eternal City, you’ll quickly discover that eating street food in Rome is a very affordable way to try some of the best Roman classics of Italian cuisine. And even if you’re not looking for the cheap eats in Rome, you’ll want to try the “cibo di strada” of the Lazio region.

variety of street food in Rome — *This Best Street Food Rome article contains affiliate links, which means I may receive a small commission on qualifying purchases at no cost to you. For more information, see my* *Affiliate Policy*.

Moreover, even if you know Italian food well, I bet there’s at least one new Roman food you haven’t tried on this list! After all, you’ll find the food is very different from the street food in Venice, the specialties of Bologna, and even the traditional foods of Tuscany.

If you want to save time and effort, consider a Rome food tour with a local guide. Here’s the best 5-star tour that’s specifically for Roman street food: Rome Street Food Tour. You won’t find a better way to discover the secrets of the streets.

Street Food Rome: Top 10 foods and where to find them

Below, I’ve given you at least one awesome place to eat each street food listed. However, they are by no means the only places with tasty versions of these Roman street food favorites. A good bet for foodies in Rome is to follow the locals: Whether you’re wandering off the beaten path or at a food market, if there’s a line of locals, that’s usually a good bet.

1. Supplì: The King of Roman Street Food

The king of Roman street food, Supplì al Telefono

Supplì is the most traditional Roman snack. So, if you're looking for a taste of authentic Roman street food, then you simply cannot miss out on trying supplì in Rome.

They’re basically a deep-fried rice ball. But not all Italian rice balls are alike. If you’re thinking Sicilian Arancini, they’re close, but without the beef or peas. They’re filled with gooey mozzarella cheese and tomato sauce, coated in breadcrumbs, and deep-fried until golden and crispy.

The more formal name is Supplì al Telefono (supplì on the telephone) because when you pull one apart, the gooey cheese strings the two halves together, resembling an old telephone cord.

For those who want a taste of true Roman tradition, head to Mercato Testaccio, one of the legendary local markets. Here, you'll find the some of the best supplì from Supplì Roma, which has been making the snack for over 100 years.

For some of the best supplì in Rome, head to Supplì Roma: Via di S. Francesco a Ripa, 137, 00153 Roma RM, Italy

2. Pizza al Taglio: Popular Rome Street Food

Pizza al Taglio, a popular Rome street food

Food historians credit Naples in the region of Campania with the original pizza, but Pizza al Taglio originated in Rome.

The name translates to “pizza by the cut” or “pizza by the slice.” It’s easily transportable, and you’ll find it’s one of the most popular street foods in Rome.

Unlike round Neapolitan pizzas, pizza al taglio is baked in large rectangular trays and then cut into individual portions. The dough is light and fluffy, providing the perfect base for an array of toppings.

There are so many versions to try! The most simple is pizza bianca, or white pizza, which only has olive oil and salt. The bakery Antico Forno Roscioli serves one of the best (Via dei Chiavari, 34, 00186 Roma RM, Italy).

If you want to try pizza al taglio with toppings, you can opt for the classic Margherita, which comes with tomato sauce, mozzarella, and fresh basil. Or you might choose something more creative like potatoes and squash blossoms. One of my favorites is the prosciutto and arugula pizza.

With such diverse options and uniform yumminess, it’s no wonder pizza al taglio is one of Rome’s favorite street foods—and mine!

In Rome, pizza al taglio can be found at pizzerias and bakeries, and both are plentiful in the city.

The fabulous bakery Molino Roma is a popular choice for pizza al taglio. It serves traditional and innovative sliced pizzas made from quality ingredients at 4 locations in Rome.

Pizzarium stands out as the most famous Roman pizzeria for al taglio. The famed Chef Gabriele Bonci has revolutionized the pizza-making scene with his innovative creations. He even opened a shop in Chicago and is giving their deep-dish pizza some heavy competition.

For the most famous pizza al taglio in Rome, head to Pizzarium: Via della Meloria, 43, 00136 Roma RM, Italy

Read our guide to the best pizza in Rome!

3. Carciofi alla Giudia: Jewish Street Food in Rome

Jewish street food in Rome, Carciofi all Giudia, deep fried artichokes — The quintessential Jewish street food in Rome, Carciofi alla Giudia, deep fried artichokes

Carciofi alla Giudia, or Jewish-style artichokes, are a Rome street food served with rich history.

During the 16th century, Jews were confined to the Roman ghetto and faced numerous restrictions on their food choices. To make the most out of limited ingredients, they developed creative recipes using locally available produce. This led to the creation of Carciofi alla Giudia, deep-fried artichokes with a crispy exterior and tender heart.

Today, these fried artichokes are a beloved dish not only among the Jewish community but among all Romans. If you love artichokes like I do, you must try this unique street food of Rome!

They are unlike any artichoke I’ve had anywhere else. The fried artichokes I grew up on were breaded, small, and quartered. These have no breading, are kept whole, and flattened so that each deep-fried artichoke resembles a flower.

They are hands down one of my favorite things to eat in Rome!

If it’s not yet obvious, Rome’s Jewish Ghetto is where you’ll find the best Carciofi alla Giudia. Ask around and you’ll likely be sent to Piperno, where they have been making this Roman dish since 1860.

Try the best Carciofi all Giudia in Rome at Piperno: Via Monte dè Cenci, 9, 00186 Roma RM, Italy

Read our guide to the best Jewish Ghetto Rome restaurants!

4. Porchetta: Street Food Roma Locals Love

Porchetta, the traditional roasted pork of Rome

The porchetta sandwich is definitely one of the foodie highlights of the Roman street food scene. With its origins dating back to antiquity, this traditional Italian dish has stood the test of time and continues to be a favorite among locals.

Porchetta is a no-frills pork roast sandwich. Even nowadays, when pizzas can have everything imaginable as toppings, the porchetta in Rome remains just the pork and the bread. It’s that good that no one will mess with this ancient Roman street food.

Sink your teeth into succulent roasted pork served in a crusty roll. Taste the perfect balance between tender meat, crispy skin, and aromatic herbs.

The key to an exceptional porchetta sandwich lies in its preparation. The pork is seasoned with a blend of fragrant herbs such as rosemary, garlic, and fennel seeds before being slow-roasted for hours. This slow cooking process allows the flavors to meld together, resulting in a succulent piece of meat that practically melts in your mouth.

The iconic spot for the porchetta sandwiches in Trastevere, Rome is La Norcineria di Iacozzilli: Via Natale del Grande, 15, 00153 Roma RM, Italy

But the I think the best porchetta in Rome is at Antico Forno Roscioli: Via dei Chiavari, 34, 00186 Roma RM, Italy).

5. Trapizzino: modern Street Food Rome Adores

Trapizzino, a modern street food in Rome

Many traditional Roman dishes have rich histories involving monks, kings, and Medieval castles. The Trapizzino is not one of those Italian foods. It is by far the most modern Roman food on this list of street foods.

In 2008, Stefano Callegari, a Rome-based pizzaiolo, had the brilliant idea of creating a triangular pizza cone.

He took Roman pizza dough and filled it with savory toppings such as chicken cacciatore, meatballs in tomato sauce, and even vegetarian options like eggplant parmigiana.

At first, Callegari only sold trapizzini from a small window in his pizzeria. Nonetheless, the locals fell in love with his invention! He opened a standalone shop in Rome's Testaccio neighborhood, and then one in Mercato Centrale and one in Trastevere. Today, the Roman street food sensation continues to win over fans.

More accurately, the popularity of trapizzino increases explosively. Today, Callegari has several Trapizzino Rome shops all over the Eternal City and even in other cities like Florence, Milan, and even New York City.

As you can imagine, there are also some knock-offs out there. So, if you really want an authentic sampling of the best in contemporary street food and cheap eats in Rome, make sure to order an original Trapizzino, the newest street food Rome adores!

6. Pasta da Portare Via: Grab-and-Go Pasta

Pasta da Portare Via, takeaway pasta in Rome

I’m always craving pasta in Italy. And on the streets of Rome, it makes a delicious meal on-the-go. Local vendors in Rome offer Pasta da Portare Via, which translates to "pasta to take away.” It has become a popular concept that allows you to indulge in fresh and flavorful pasta on the go without compromising on taste.

These vendors take pride in using high-quality ingredients and traditional recipes, ensuring that each dish is bursting with the authentic flavors of Roman cuisine.

You’ll find a wide variety of grab-and-go pasta options, but when I’m in Rome, I like to stick to the classic Roman dishes.

There are four traditional Roman pasta sauces. I usually pick one of the creamy specialties like Carbonara or Cacio e Pepe. My husband Mike, on the other hand, usually chooses Amatriciana, with its red sauce, or Gricia. Gricia is sometimes nicknamed Amatriciana Bianca, or “White Amatriciana,” because it shares all of the Amatriciana ingredients except tomatoes.

With Pasta da Portare Via, you can easily enjoy your meal while strolling through the city, or you can elect to find a cozy spot in one of Rome's picturesque squares. The food boxes keep the pasta warm and allow you to savor every bite at your own pace.

In the neighborhood of Trastevere, you’ll find the best takeaway pasta in Rome at Da Enzo al 29. However, it’s such a wonderful place, if you can get a table, you may want to sit down and enjoy your meal at the restaurant.

For the best Pasta Da Portare Via, try Da Enzo al 29: Via dei Vascellari, 29, 00153 Roma RM, Italy

7. Filetto di Baccalà: Traditional Street Food of Rome

Filetto di Baccalà, or fried salt cod, one of the most traditional street foods of Rome

Seafood lovers should not miss out on trying the fried cod fish dish known as Filetto di Baccalà, a very traditional street food. Fish may seem like a surprising snack to some, but fried cod has a long history as a popular street food in Rome.

It dates back to the early 17th century when codfish was introduced to Rome by Spanish fishermen. Today, the dish is an intrinsic part of the city's culinary culture and very much a Roman food.

Many people (like my mother) cringe with fear when they hear “Baccalà.” But I promise, this isn’t your Italian grandfather’s salt-saturated Baccalà!

The recipe varies from vendor to vendor, but the core ingredients remain the same—cod, flour, eggs, garlic, and oil. The fish is soaked in water for a couple of days to reduce its saltiness. Then it is marinated with garlic before coating it with the batter and deep-frying.

When done, the outside will be golden brown and crispy, the inside white, tender, and flaky.

You will find fried cod in many places around Rome. However, there are a few street vendors that are known for their exceptional Filetto di Baccalà.

One of the most popular is Dar Filettaro a Santa Barbara, a small restaurant located in the heart of the Jewish ghetto. This iconic eatery has been serving delicious fried cod for more than 70 years. It is a must-visit for anyone looking to sample some of the best street food in Rome.

For delicious Filetto di Baccalà, try Dar Filettaro a Santa Barbara: Largo dei Librari, 88, 00186 Roma RM, Italy

8. Gelato & Sorbetto: Coolest Street Food in Rome

Who can resist the allure of a creamy gelato or a refreshing sorbetto on a scorching summer day? Or for me, any day—especially in Roma!

So, you ask, “What’s the difference between gelato and sorbetto?” Gelato means “frozen,” and this frozen treat made from milk was invented in Italy in the 16th century. Sorbetto is the Italian word for the French dessert, sorbet. Sorbetto is always eggless and dairy free, so it is vegan.

Bonus answer for unasked question: The difference between gelato and ice cream is that ice cream is made with cream and has more air whipped into it. So, most times, even though gelato uses milk, it’s more dense and more creamy tasting.

As you wander through the streets of Rome, whether for gelato or sorbetto, you'll encounter an array of flavors to satisfy your sweet tooth.

From classics like fragola (strawberry) and cioccolato (chocolate) to more adventurous combinations like pistachio and ricotta fig, there's something for everyone.

Don't be afraid to try new flavors—after all, part of the joy of exploring street food is discovering unexpected culinary delights.

Many gelato enthusiasts swear by Giolitti, a historic gelateria located near the Pantheon and just a short walk from Piazza Navona. This family-owned establishment has been serving up delectable frozen treats since 1900 and continues to delight locals and tourists alike with its extensive flavor selection.

For creamy, authentic gelato in Rome, head to Giolitti: Via Uffici del Vicario, 40, 00186 – Roma RM, Italy

9. Maritozzo: Sweet Treat on the Street

Maritozzo, a sweet Italian pastry filled with whipped cream

This is one Italian breakfast you won’t want to miss!

Maritozzo is a luscious, cream-filled Roman pastry that has been around for more than a thousand years. It is considered both an Italian breakfast pastry and a typical Roman dessert. So, in Rome, it’s eaten from morning to night.

Back in ancient Rome, Maritozzo was a "panis maritus," meaning "husband's bread." It was given to the groom on his wedding day as a symbol of love by his bride.

Today, you can indulge in the sweet, soft texture of Maritozzo wedding day or not. Some street food vendors, like Il Maritozzaro, which has been serving Maritozzo since 1960, are even open all day, everyday.

That’s reason enough for it to be on our best bakery of Rome list!

Get your midnight Maritozzo at Il Maritozzaro: Via Ettore Rolli, 50, 00153 Roma RM, Italy

10. Panino: Roma Street Food Staple

An artisan Panino filled with salumi, italian cheeses, olives, and vegetables — An artisan panino filled with salumi, italian cheeses, olives, and vegetables

Rome is home to some of the best panini shops in Italy. A panino (the singular of panini) is a sandwich. A Roman panino doesn’t have to be toasted, pressed, or grilled like an American panini.

Of course, panini with traditional salumi and Italian cheeses are very typical, but they can be made with almost anything.

There’s the classic caprese with mozzarella, tomato, and fresh basil. Or the more indulgent prosciutto and salami with truffle cream. And the exotic octopus, tomatoes, and olives!

The perfect spot for panini in Rome is Mordi e Vai, which is located in the Testaccio neighborhood. This small street vendor has become a favorite among locals for its inventive and flavorful panini, which are made with regional ingredients and traditional recipes. Try the lesso (tender beef) and salsa verde, a savory green sauce made with herbs, capers, and anchovies.

Taste artisan panini in Rome at Mordi e Vai: Box 15, Nuovo Mercato di Testaccio, Via Beniamino Franklin, 12/E, Roma RM, Italy

FAQs About Street Food in Rome

1. Is it safe to eat street food in Rome?

Yes, it is generally safe to eat street food in Rome. The city has strict regulations regarding food safety, and hygiene standards are enforced. However, it is always advisable to choose vendors who have good reviews and appear clean—like the ones in this street food guide.

2. What Are the Best local food markets With street food stalls?

My top 3 best markets in Rome for street food vendors are Mercato Centrale di Roma, Testaccio Market, and Campo de' Fiori. Each bustling market offers a mix of fresh produce and a variety of Italian street foods.

3. What are the best food tours in Rome?

I have a whole article on them that you can read here: Best Rome Food Tours. In addition to the Street Food Tour, the Trastevere Food Tour, Prati Food Tour, and Testaccio Food Tour also hit some yummy street food spots.

4. How do you eat Roma street food?

If you’re wondering how to eat street food while you’re wandering, it’s really quite simple. Most of it is designed to be hand held so you can eat these treats on the go. If you find that to be difficult, find a spot in a piazza, sit down, and enjoy.

5. Are there food trucks in Rome?

You may come across a few scattered food trucks in Rome. In other words, it doesn’t come close to the food truck scene in Portland, Oregon, or other U.S. foodie capitals. You are much more likely to find street food at the local markets and trattorias or restaurants offering takeaway.

6. Can I find vegetarian options among Rome's street food offerings?

Absolutely! While many traditional Roman street foods include meat, there are also plenty of vegetarian options available. From pizza al taglio with various vegetable toppings to supplì filled with cheese and vegetables, you'll find delicious vegetarian choices throughout the city. Read this article for more vegan options in Italy: Vegan in Italy Travel Guide.

7. Are street food prices in Rome affordable?

Street food in Rome is generally more affordable than dining in restaurants. Prices, however, can vary depending on the specific vendor and location. But overall, street food options constitute some of the best cheap eats in Rome.

8. Can I find gluten-free street food options in Rome?

Yes, there are gluten-free street food options available in Rome. Some vendors offer gluten-free pizza crusts or rice-based dishes that cater to individuals with dietary restrictions. But, of course, it's always a good idea to communicate your dietary needs to the vendor beforehand to be confident that you’ll be getting what you think you will.

Enjoy your street food adventure in Rome and buon appetito!