Armando Al Pantheon

Nestled just steps from one of Rome’s most iconic landmarks, Armando Al Pantheon has been serving traditional Roman fare for over half a century. This family-run trattoria embodies everything you’d hope for in an authentic Italian dining experience—unpretentious service, time-tested recipes, and an atmosphere that feels like stepping into a neighborhood institution.

The pasta here is the real star. Their amatriciana has earned a reputation as one of the finest in the city, with a sauce that’s been perfected across six decades. Each bite of rigatoni comes loaded with that signature punch of guanciale, the crispy bits of pork cheek distributed perfectly throughout. The carbonara follows suit, combining that same irresistible crunch with a silky coating of egg and a generous snowfall of pecorino romano.

Scoring an outdoor table with a view of the Pantheon elevates the experience to something truly memorable—there’s nothing quite like twirling pasta while gazing at a 2,000-year-old architectural marvel. The restaurant does close on Sundays, so plan accordingly.

This is the kind of place you bring your parents, impress a date who appreciates the classics, or simply treat yourself to a proper Roman lunch. Just don’t expect to walk in without a reservation—Armando’s reputation means last-minute tables are nearly impossible to snag.