Culinary and Wine Tour of Italy – Just Outside Your Rome Hotel
Italy is known the world over for its delicious wines, its imaginative cuisine, and its artisanal products such as aged parmesan cheese, prosciutto, olive oil, vinegar, and pasta.
Many tourists travel to the vineyards of Tuscany and the workshops of Parma, Modena and Bologna to sample these. But you are traveling to Rome. What is a gourmet and oenophile to do? Fortunately, Rome is home to an increasingly lively and sophisticated network of wine bars and small plate establishments – many just steps from your Rome hotel.
Here is a list of some of our favorites:
Piazza Navona – Pantheon Area
Cul de Sac – this is one of the oldest wine bars in Rome. It is steps from the Piazza Navona and boasts over 1500 different wines grouped by different wine regions of Italy. Wines are complemented by a full menu as well as small appetizer plates of prosciutto, salami, and cheeses. Piazza Pasquino 73. Tel. 06 68801094. Visit
Mimi e Coco – this is a cute place – also steps from the Piazza Navona. It is a warm and welcoming unpretentious place with a few tables inside and a nice space outside to take in the wonderful light of Rome. They have a nice assortment of Italian wines and a variety of appetizers, pastas and salads. Via del Governo Vecchio 72. Tel. 06 68210845. Visit
Campo dei Fiori Area (between Piazza Navona and Trastevere)
Angolo Divino – a family run establishment for over 50 years, this wine bar is found in an 18th century palace in the heart of Rome – near the lively Campo dei Fiori. They serve wines from around Italy accompanied by antipasti – such as prosciutto, salami, and cheese. Via dei Balestrari, 12. Tel. 06 6864413. Visit
Roscioli – this is perhaps one of the most popular and famous wine bars currently in Rome. It is also located near the Campo dei Fiori. It is recommended to make reservations here. They have an ample selection of wines from around Italy and a wide assortment of antipasti and main course items. There is a full function delicatessan and gourmet grocery attached as well. Via dei Giubbonari, 21. Tel 06 6875287. Visit
Ara Pacis – Tomb of Augustus Area
Gusto – this is a large complex – part kitchen store, part restaurant and part wine bar. It is visually stunning and full of beautiful people. It is a fun place to grab a small plate and sample wines from around Italy – and even other parts of the world. Via della Frezza, 16. Tel. 06 32111482. Visit
Piazza Cavour (not far from St. Peter’s Area)
Enoteca Costantini e Ristorante Simposio – this is a classic wine shop on the renovated Piazza Cavour and the Prati district of Rome. It is a 15 minute walk from St. Peter’s. The shop and restaurant are favorites of locals who live in this upscale neighborhood. The restaurant is next door to the enoteca and offers both traditional menu as well as opportunity to sample wines and appetizers of prosciutto, salami and cheese. (Closed Sunday) Piazza Cavour 16. Tel 06 3203575. Visit
Rome is a labyrinth of neighborhoods, piazzas, small streets and hidden spaces filled with family-run restaurants, wine bars and delis, eager to welcome you and help you explore Italian wine, beer, and food. Most speak English and want you to have a good experience so you will tell your friends. We’d like to hear about the hidden gems you find. Email us and we will add your favorites to our list!
