Eating Cheap in Rome

The Eternal City is known for its cuisine (among other things), and if you’re a budget traveler and food lover like me, you’ll want to sample as many different dishes as possible for as cheaply as possible, no matter where you are. Luckily, Rome is an ideal city for doing just that if you’re a little resourceful and willing to take a detour or two away from the beaten tourist path. There’s nothing wrong with splurging if you can afford it, but why not get the best value for the money while exploring the city’s lesser-known neighborhood trattorias and ristorantes, or even some of the Italian chains that serve up great inexpensive meals?

One of the city’s no longer well-kept-secrets is Antica Osteria da Giovanni, (Via della Lungara, 41/a) - an amazingly low-priced establishment where you can indulge in some basic, but well-prepared and generously-sized portions - many entrees here are in the 2 - 5 euro range, and served with very good table wines that are also well under the prices you might pay elsewhere. The Italian food and wine magazine, Gambero Rosso, has recognized Antica Osteria da Giovanni as one of the best restaurants for the money, so it may become a bit more crowded in the future.

Another surprisingly low-priced establishment serving delicious food is Mondo Arancina, with several locations across the city, featuring a Sicilian-styled menu that includes hearty dishes like the namesake arancini - huge, deep-fried rice balls with various fillings - or, if you prefer, one of their other specialties including pizzas and desserts of many varieties, all at ridiculously low prices.

For some of the best traditional pizza in Rome, try Ristorante la Soffitta (Via dei Villini 1), a popular joint serving wagon-wheel-sized pizzas; upstairs above the pizzeria is a dining area with fish, meat and pastas at very reasonable prices - two people can expect to eat for well under 30 euros, including wine.

Rome can be an affordable destination for even the budget traveler - there are many cheap hotels in Rome and many Rome hotels offer discount rates during the winter season. Airfares are also much lower in the off-season, so take advantage of the savings and come to the Eternal City for a low-cost vacation and a welcome break from your diet!