La Taverna dei Fori Imperiali

Tucked into the Monti neighborhood just steps from the Colosseum and Roman Forum, La Taverna dei Fori Imperiali stands apart from the tourist-trap restaurants that dominate this ancient corner of Rome. This is the kind of place where locals still come for a proper meal—always a good sign when you’re surrounded by one of the world’s most visited attractions.

The kitchen draws from a rich culinary heritage spanning Roman, Umbrian, and southern Italian traditions. Their pasta offerings reflect this delicious blend of regional influences. You’ll find cacio e pepe elevated with fragrant truffle shavings, pillowy ravioli bursting with creamy burrata, and a playful take on carbonara that brings in springtime flavors with fava beans, artichokes, and fresh peas. Each dish honors tradition while showing the kitchen’s creative spirit.

The seafood deserves special attention here. La Taverna sources their fish directly from the nearby coastal town of Anzio, so whatever’s fresh that day is worth ordering. Ask about the daily specials to discover what the fishermen brought in that morning.

After a long morning exploring ancient ruins, this welcoming trattoria offers the perfect midday retreat. The neighborhood setting in Monti adds charm to the experience, giving you a taste of authentic Roman dining without straying far from the historic sites.