Amidst the ancient ruins and timeless wonders of Italy, Rome stands as a gastronomic must-visit, where every cobblestone street holds an array of culinary delights. From the grandeur of Colosseum to the intimate charm of Trastevere, the Eternal City beckons food enthusiasts to embark on a journey through its diverse food scene.
While Rome is celebrated for its high-end dining establishments, the city also unveils a treasure trove of budget-friendly foodie gems that promise an authentic Italian experience without breaking the bank. In the heart of this historic metropolis, where the aroma of fresh basil mingles with the notes of rich espresso, budget-conscious travellers can savour the essence of Roman life through its affordable yet delicious eateries.
Join us as we navigate the bustling streets and hidden alleys, uncovering where to eat in Rome on a budget, without compromising on flavour or authenticity. Embark on a wallet-friendly journey through the best affordable restaurants in Rome, and be sure to check our guide to the best restaurants in Sorrento, Italy, too!
Best Affordable Restaurants in Rome 2024
Taverna del Seminario
Situated just a stone’s throw from the iconic Pantheon, Taverna del Seminario is a charming budget-friendly restaurant in Rome that encapsulates the rich culinary heritage of the city. Established by the Betturri family in 1924, this eatery has evolved from its origins as a “carbonaro” and later a fashion atelier into one of the best affordable restaurants in Rome.
The philosophy of this Rome cheap eat centres around its kitchen, serving as the pulsating heart of the establishment. Despite its prime location, Taverna del Seminario prides itself on being one of the best cheap restaurants in Rome. Offering an array of traditional Roman and Italian dishes alongside naturally leavened pizzas, the commitment to quality at this Rome restaurant is evident, from handmade fresh pasta crafted daily with top-tier semolina flour to desserts prepared with simplicity and expertise. Meanwhile, the wine list, typically Italian, caters to diverse tastes and budgets.
Trieste Pizza
Nestled in the heart of the city, Trieste Pizza is undoubtedly one of the best cheap eats in Rome, perfect for the budget-conscious diner. The small, well-lit establishment boasts a minimalist charm, its white interior accentuated by cast iron pans displaying tempting pizzas just opposite the entrance. Catering to the city’s young and budget-savvy crowd, this affordable restaurant in Rome has become a popular haunt for locals and visitors alike.
Originating as a beach kiosk in Pescara in the 1950s, Trieste has expanded to five locations, maintaining its commitment to quick service without compromising on quality. With pizzas on full display and super friendly staff, eating at this good value restaurant in Rome couldn’t be easier. It proves an excellent pitstop for a budget-friendly snack before or after exploring the Forum, the Colosseum, or a leisurely stroll through the charming Monti neighbourhood.
Pinsere
Located in Rome’s bustling Sallustiano district, Pinsere stands out as a vibrant takeaway joint, offering a budget-friendly option for those seeking a quick and delicious bite. The bright interior is manned by an exceptionally friendly staff, and the atmosphere is dominated by a marble-and-glass display case showcasing the star of the show – the pinse,a modern reinterpretation of an ancient flatbread recipe that some locals claim as the original pizza.
There’s no denying the popularity of these oblong flatbreads, providing a refreshing alternative to the traditional round pizzas found throughout the city. The menu at this cheap eat in Rome boasts both classic options and creative variations, such as the enticing mix of mortadella, ricotta, and pistachio. So, if you’re looking for one of the best affordable restaurants in Rome for a quick snack or a wallet-friendly lunch, be sure to pop down to Pinsere.
Trattoria Vecchia Roma
Situated in the charming Esquilino neighbourhood, Trattoria Vecchia Roma beckons with its timeless charm and affordable appeal. The pièce de résistance at this cheap place to eat in Rome is the Bucatini all’Amatriciana, a culinary masterpiece flambeed and expertly mixed in a pecorino wheel. Generous portion sizes, starting at a wallet-friendly €9 make this a very good value restaurant in Rome for those seeking authentic Roman flavours without breaking the bank.
Steeped in history, this affordable restaurant in Rome began its journey as the classic cellar known as “wines and oils” in 1916, where locals gathered to play cards, savour good wine, and bask in the joy of Roman afternoons. In 1938, the Colangelo family assumed the reins of this cherished establishment, passing down the tradition of Roman cuisine from one generation to the next. Today, under the guidance of Ricardo, the trattoria continues to shine as the epitome of the best homemade cuisine in the city.
Bottega Nostrana
Tucked away in the heart of the city, Bottega Nostrana blends the finest Italian ingredients with a budget-friendly price point. When it comes to where to eat in Rome on a budget, this affordable restaurant is committed to satisfying every customer with the highest quality products sourced from across the country. Indulge in some of the capital’s best platters, featuring exquisite DOC cured meats and cheeses from various Italian regions. Accompany these delights with artisan bread or typical Roman pizza, all prepared to perfection.
This cheap restaurant in Rome is defined by a harmonious blend of tradition and modernity. Guided by a profound desire to experiment with new combinations, this Rome cheap eat is a must-visit for those seeking fresh, seasonal, and unique produce. So, whether you crave a daytime feast or a late-night snack, Bottega Nostrana will welcome you with open arms.
Pinsitaly Trevi
Discreetly positioned on Via della Panetteria, just a stone’s throw from the iconic Trevi Fountain, Pinsitaly Trevi stands as a delightful surprise for those seeking one of the best affordable restaurants in Rome. This unassuming street food joint not only offers the perfect setting for lunch, dinner or a quick bite on the go but also introduces visitors to the quintessential Roman pizza experience.
The pizzas at this cheap restaurant in Rome come in perfect sizes, catering to both those seeking a lighter lunch and those craving a heartier meal. The oval-shaped pinsa, akin to a focaccia, takes centre stage, offering a thin and crunchy base, plenty of cheese, and delectable toppings.
CasaManco
CasaManco is a delightful revelation in the world of pizza by the slice in Rome, curated with passion by the dynamic duo, Paola and Andrea. What sets this cheap eat in Rome apart is its dedication to using fresh, seasonal produce sourced directly from the market. Meanwhile, the ever-changing flavours of this good value restaurant in Rome are a testament to the couple’s dedication to seasonality, with inventive toppings like prosciutto e fichi during fig season or uva fragola, a special grape, picked up from the best fruit stall nearby.
The menu at CasaManco adapts daily based on the market’s offerings, while signature dishes like pizza bianca with sesame seeds or the classic margarita remain constant. If you’re looking for somewhere vegan to eat in Rome on a budget, CasaManco surprises with meat- and dairy-free options featuring the likes of hummus and aubergine, tomatoes and olives.
Amidst the bustling streets of Rome, where culinary excellence often meets historical grandeur, lies an array of cheap places to eat. From authentic affordable restaurants that preserve the flavours of generations to vibrant, modern takes on tradition, the cheap eats in Rome have something to offer everyone.
Now you know where to eat in Rome on a budget, be sure to check out our guide to the best non-touristy things to do in Rome, too!
Techno-Mads 
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