Affordable Restaurants in Rome: Where To Eat Well for Less

Opting for a Chinese meal in Rome may seem slightly counterintuitive, but trust us, this gem near the Pantheon is definitely worth a try. Green’s small dining rooms are arranged on different levels, creating an intimate foray into gourmet Chinese cuisine. Here, dishes range from street food-style options to imperial cuisine to more contemporary fare, with favorites like dim sum made fresh daily.

This casual modern bistro with a cryptic name is famous for its tasting menu and extensive selection of tapas, which can be enjoyed as appetizers or shared plates. While the menu features some locally inspired dishes, Untitled tends to lean more toward the creative, often blending Asian influences. Located near the famous Piazza Navona square, it also offers an excellent selection of natural wines and ales.

A fixture in Ostiense’s traditional residential area, this simple trattoria has become so popular that reservations are required at least a week in advance. Be assured, its menu — featuring the usual suspects of Roman seasonal dishes like carbonara alongside duck breast with caramelized onions and apples— more than lives up to the hype.

Don’t be fooled by its ultratouristy location between Piazza Navona and Campo de Fiori. This modern tavern is the real deal, serving authentic Roman dishes made with seasonal, locally sourced ingredients from slow-food producers. The inexpensive Percorso Romano tasting menu lets you try four traditional Roman dishes for under €40, including house specialties such as cacio e pepe pasta and oven-roasted lamb.

Situated far from the tourist hot spots in the residential Appio-Latino neighborhood, this charmer is always packed with locals enjoying fish dishes and Roman classics. At the no-frills Domenico, the menu is either described by a waiter or written on a chalkboard. Must-tries include tripe, sweetbreads, offal and artichokes cooked Roman- or Jewish-style. Seating is limited, so reservations are advised.

Dining at this trattoria in the trendy Trastevere neighborhood feels like a big, warm hug. That’s thanks to its lively vibe, welcoming staff and heaping portions of delicious Lazian dishes. Expect lamb offal and pasta served with the renowned Roman trifecta of sauces: carbonara, amatriciana and cacio e pepe.