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Discover where to eat near the Vatican with this curated list of top restaurants, cafes, and gelato shops chosen by a local—without the tourist traps!
A visit to the Vatican, regardless of how you plan it, often leaves you hungry and eager to find a satisfying meal away from the bustling crowds.
Having a reliable list of delightful dining options will make your search for food easier and enhance your overall experience. So, here you go!
This is my selection of fantastic places to eat near the Vatican—tried and tested by yours truly!
As a local from Rome, I have little patience for mediocre, touristy spots that overcharge for subpar food and offer poor service due to the overwhelming crowds.
Surprisingly, there are fewer tourist traps in Rome than you might think.
However, since the Vatican is such a busy area, I conducted extensive research to recommend genuinely outstanding places that I believe will provide you with a great dining experience.
This guide includes the best restaurants for lunch and dinner near the Vatican, my favorite gelato spot, and an American breakfast venue for when you’re craving something different.
I hope you enjoy it!
Tip for Families with Kids: All these venues are family-friendly. However, Bonci and Pastificio Borghiciana have limited space, so they are more suitable without strollers.
Please note: This list is based on my personal experience. I do not receive any compensation for including these establishments and have no business associations with any of them.
Osteria delle Commari
Osteria delle Commari is a charming and welcoming restaurant near the Vatican that serves traditional Roman cuisine in a casual yet refined atmosphere—think dark wooden tables, stemware, paper placemats, and wine bottles lining the walls.
The menu features Roman classics such as supplì (fried rice balls), cacio e pepe, and saltimbocca alla romana, which change throughout the month to reflect seasonal ingredients.
It offers good value for money—a rarity in this area! An excellent choice overall.
Address: Via Santamaura 23, 00192 Rome
Good to Know: The restaurant usually offers Christmas menu options (Christmas Eve and Christmas lunch). Book directly at Osteria delle Commari.
La Soffitta Renovatio (also gluten and lactose free)
I first found out about La Soffitta Renovatio through recommendations as one of the best gluten-free restaurants in Rome, and it quickly became a favorite due to the exceptional quality of their dishes.
The restaurant offers a comprehensive menu with options for starters, pasta, meat, and fish, as well as delicious soups, pizza, and is highly attentive to the needs of gluten-free and lactose-free diners: it is certified by AIC (Italian Association for Coeliacs).
Special mention goes to their gluten-free dishes, including traditional Roman fried starters (Supplì! Zucchini Flowers! Baccalà!), which are increasingly hard to find, despite being a staple in Rome.
Address: Piazza Risorgimento 56A, 00193 Rome Reservations via phone or email: Contact La Soffitta Renovatio.
Barghigiana Pastificio Artigianale
Pastificio Barghigiana is a quaint and delicious lunch spot located close to the Vatican, on the picturesque Borgo Pio street.
Pastificio means ‘pasta-making place’ and true to its name, Barghigiana serves up delicious pasta dishes!
The menu boasts Roman favorites like carbonara and amatriciana, simple dishes like pasta with tomato and basil sauce, and popular items like lasagna.
In addition to pasta, they offer a selection of starters and sides, including carciofi alla romana, grilled vegetables, and avocado with smoked salmon.
The venue is quite small, with only a few tables, creating an informal atmosphere perfect for a casual lunch. Large groups are not advisable due to space limitations.
Address: Borgo Pio 186, 00193 Rome—just a few minutes’ walk from the Vatican, situated on one of Rome’s prettiest streets, Borgo.
Il Sorpasso
Il Sorpasso is a delightful spot for lunch and aperitivo, located a short walk from the Vatican in the elegant and local Prati neighborhood.
This restaurant stands out from others on this list, as it features a menu inspired by Tuscan cuisine and broader Italian traditions, showcasing delicious cured meats, cheese platters, pasta e fagioli (pasta with beans), parmigiana, orecchiette, and gnocchi.
The restaurant offers both indoor and outdoor seating: the outdoor vibe is casual, while the indoor seating strikes a balance between casual and upscale, attracting a mix of families and locals enjoying business lunches.
The platters and desserts are the standout choices here, although all dishes have consistently impressed over the years.
Address: Via Properzio 31/33, 00193 Rome
Bonci Pizzarium (pizza al taglio)
Bonci Pizzarium is frequently hailed as one of the best pizza spots in Rome, and rightfully so. If you’re wondering where to grab pizza near the Vatican, this is a spot you shouldn’t miss!
Pizzarium is not a traditional restaurant but a pizza al taglio venue, meaning you buy pizza by weight for takeaway or enjoy it at one of the small tables.
This format is quintessentially Roman and ideal for a casual lunch; the pizza comes with numerous toppings, making it an excellent choice for families or groups of friends.
Bonci is quite popular, so you’ll often see lines of visitors, making it seem more touristy than it deserves. The busiest time is typically between 12:30 PM and 2:30 PM, when you might not find a table and may have to wait in line.
The prices are higher than average due to the generous toppings (sold by weight) and Bonci’s international fame, but the quality justifies it.
Address: Via della Memoria 43, 00136 Rome
Ai Balestrari in Prati
Ai Balestrari is a quintessential Roman restaurant and pizzeria, featuring a playful take on traditional décor with old movie posters and a casual, welcoming atmosphere (true Roman dining is very laid-back!).
This restaurant offers a nostalgic dining experience, with dishes true to tradition: their cacio e pepe, carbonara, and saltimbocca are exceptional, and the pizza is thin crust, just as authentic Roman pizza should be.
Reservations are recommended.
Address: Piazza Dell’Unita, 27 Via Dei Gracchi, 00191 Rome Reservations available (select the Prati location for more options): Ai Balestrari.
American Breakfast near the Vatican
If you’re in the mood for an American breakfast (i.e., a cooked breakfast with pancakes and American coffee), you’ll be thrilled to find a great spot called Homebaked near the Vatican!
Homebaked was recommended to me by an American friend who loves their coffee enough to travel across the city for it, and it’s now a family favorite—my kids especially adore it!
At Homebaked, you’ll find all the expected offerings: fluffy pancakes, waffles, bagels, salads, wraps, and, of course, coffee.
The all-day breakfast concept is particularly appealing after a long day of exploring the museums!
Address: Via di Porta Cavalleggeri 25, 00165 Rome
You can check out the best places for American breakfast in Rome.
Best Gelato near the Vatican
No guide to dining near the Vatican would be complete without mentioning gelato, especially with so many fantastic options available in the area!
For delicious gelato near the Vatican, my favorite spot is Cremilla, located at Via di Porta Castello 39, 00193 Rome.
Where to eat near the Vatican: Pin this!
Looking for more restaurant recommendations? Don’t miss:
Our top restaurants near the Colosseum
Our selection of the best family restaurants in Rome city center
Our guide to Rome for foodies
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