Venturing a little further out of the centre of Rome there's the neighbourhood of Pigneto (check out the article), worth a visit in itself for being an up-and-coming area boasting some of the best new bars and restaurants in the city. I'm still getting round to trying them all, but one of my favourites so far is Club Spirito, a speakeasy with a not-so-secret entrance in the sandwich shop next door.
Part speakeasy, part American diner, it has a great internal courtyard and terrace hidden inside making it a perfect summer spot. It's famous for its cocktails, and they do food too - mainly American classics. My favourite thing about it, though, is that in proper keeping with the speakeasy vibes it also has its own casino table - playing with other people in the bar is a great way to meet other people and make some local friends. It's open until 4.30am too, so it’s a good shout for a nightcap - or two, depending on your luck at the cards!
Find your way with 152 Insider Tips from our Local Spotters
"Gelateria Fassi" in Rome is a historical gelato shop almost all locals know. The atmosphere takes you back in time, and it's open 24/7, too!
by
"Al Gallo Rosso" in Rome is loud, informal and sincere. The perfect pizzeria to take your friends for some arrosticini to enjoy the company of each other!
by
"Parco della Caffarella" in Rome has been my gym, my mountain, my restaurant, my first date. I wouldn't be the same today without this piece of nature...
by
"Caffè Ciamei" has the oldest coffee license in Rome and it's still one of my favorite places in town to get a cup. Try their cremina instead of sugar!
by
"Via dei Cappellari" is a little side street that is completely reminiscent of the Old Rome, with its staying away from the logic of profit...
by
"Porta s. Sebastiano" used to be an ancient entrance to the city of Rome. Today, you can walk along the walls and enjoy the stunning views...
by
CSOA eXSnia in Rome is in my opinion one of the most culturally vivid and beautiful places in the city, a 'self-managed occupied social center'...
by
"Osteria Dar Bruttone" in Rome makes some of tastiest carbonara (with or without artichokes) you can get your hands on. Also try their Porchetta...
by
"Cecilia Metella's Tomb" is a bit outside Rome's city center, but I love coming here to write among the ancient buildings & the Appia Antica road...
by
"Pasticceria Boccione" in Rome is not for you if you're after pretty, Instagrammable desserts! But every pastry is just delicious in this Jewish bakery...
by
"La Fraschetta" is a neighborhood hangout in Rome for the locals -- Sandro doesn't get many customers who aren't Italian men in their fifties or older!
by
152 Insider Tips from our local Spotters
Authentic Stories by Real People
Escape the Crowd & Travel Slow 🐌
✓ 0 Insider Tips from our local Spotters
✓ 152 Insider Tips