๐ Introduction: Delicious Doesnโt Have to Mean Expensive
Rome might be known for luxury villas and Michelin starsโbut eating well on a budget is totally possible. With the right picks, you can enjoy authentic Roman cuisine without blowing your euros. These spots offer rich flavor, local atmosphere, and real value.
๐ Best Affordable Restaurants in Rome
1. Da Enzo al 29 (Trastevere)
Classic Roman trattoria. No reservationsโgo early or expect a wait.
๐ Must-try: Carbonara or amatriciana
๐ถ Mains around โฌ12โโฌ14
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2. Osteria Bonelli (Tuscolana)
Beloved by locals. Off the beaten path but worth the ride.
๐ฒ Must-try: Polpette (meatballs), daily pasta specials
๐ถ Set menu around โฌ15
3. ืคืืฆืจืื ืืื ืืจืื (Trastevere)
The no-frills pizza legend. Fast, crowded, delicious.
๐ Must-try: Margherita + suppli
๐ถ Pizza starts at โฌ5
4. Forno Campo de’ Fiori
Great for takeaway lunch or a picnic.
๐ฅ Must-try: Pizza bianca with mortadella
๐ถ Snacks under โฌ4
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5. Pastificio Guerra (Near Spanish Steps)
Cheap, filling, and fastโperfect lunch stop.
๐ Must-try: Daily pasta takeaway + wine cup
๐ถ โฌ5 full meal (cash only!)
6. Trapizzino (Multiple Locations)
Street food meets gourmet sandwich.
๐ฏ Must-try: Chicken cacciatore or meatball trapizzino
๐ถ โฌ4โโฌ6 per piece
7. Pasta Chef Monti
Quick, gourmet pasta made fresh in a small modern space.
๐ Must-try: Cacio e pepe or truffle pasta
๐ถ โฌ7โโฌ9 per plate
8. La Matricianella (Center โ book in advance)
Traditional Roman dishes in a cozy, budget-friendly trattoria.
๐ฅ Must-try: Rigatoni alla gricia
๐ถ Starters from โฌ6, mains from โฌ10
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9. Mordi & Vai (Testaccio Market)
Famous for sandwiches filled with Roman specialties.
๐ฅช Must-try: Allesso di scottona (braised beef)
๐ถ Around โฌ5
10. Panificio Bonci (Vatican Area)
Pizza slices + baked goods from the legend Gabriele Bonci.
๐ Must-try: Potato pizza, rosemary focaccia
๐ถ Price per weight, around โฌ6โโฌ8 per meal
๐ก Budget Dining Tips in Rome
- Go local: Look for restaurants with menus only in Italian
- Avoid tourist areas: Venture a few blocks from major attractions
- Drink tap water: Free, safe, and served in carafes
- Eat lunch big: Set lunch menus are usually cheaper than dinner
๐๏ธ [AFFILIATE_LINK_CHEAP_EATS_TOUR_OR_PRINTABLE_CITY_FOOD_MAP]
๐ Related Posts to Link:
- [Rome Street Food โ Must-Try Snacks]
- [Rome on a Budget โ Full Savings Guide]
- [Top Food Markets in Rome]
๐ Wrap-Up: Eat Like a Local, Spend Like a Pro
In Rome, dining well doesnโt require fine dining prices. With these insider-approved spots, youโll taste the best of the city without draining your walletโjust bring your appetite