Rome

Best and worst restaurants:

Best: Restaurante Romana (name quite right) near the Barberini metro stop
Why: Oh my goodness, were the waiters hilarious. (The restaurant wasn't quite as casual as the book says, but no matter.)

John Weiss in Boulder, CO USA 06/23/2008

Best: Caffe dello Studente
Why: We went twice and were treated like royalty both times - I'm sure it was because we had the book. We didn't see Simona (she stays home some with their small child), but her husband, Emiliano, took wonderful care of us. The food was awesome, too!

Worst: "Claudio's Extravaganza" at Gabriello's
Why: We loved the restaurant and the food and service were excellent. The "Extravaganza" turned out to be regular selections from each course on the menu. We had hoped for something a little more special - Maybe our expectations were not realistic.

Ann Blalock in Katy, TX USA 06/22/2008

Best: Antica Pizzeria da Michele
Why: Of all the eateries recommended, this venue lived up to its description. Inexpensive, tasty pizza and a beer for about 6 Euro. They actually offer three kinds of pizza, though, not two. The first one is marinara, which has sauce only. The second is margherita which has a little bit of mozzarella and sauce, and the third one is "doppe" (not sure if I spelled it right) that has double the mozzarella cheese and is the one most people want. It covers the whole pie with cheese, whereas the margherita is sparsely covered. No English is spoken there, but the menus are framed and hung on the wall at each table, and you can point.

Rosemary in Forest Hills, NY USA 06/19/2008

Best: Miscellanea
Why: Friendly staff, great food, low prices - and Mikki's "sexy wine". We were reading the guidebook after lunch and here came the wine without a word from us.

Steve Coney in League City, Te USA 05/24/2008

Best: Osteria da Mario near Pantheon
Why: Perfectly delicious! We arrived just after opening (7pm) on a Saturday night. Most of the outdoor tables were reserved starting at 8 or 9. They found a spot for us and we assured them we'd be finished by then, which we were.

Amy in Wiesbaden, Germany 05/17/2008

Best: L'Antica Birreria Peroni
Why: We went there for dinner after visiting the Trevi fountain. Food was marvelous, bruscetta was fabulous, and the linguini was like momma used to make! The atmosphere is casual, beer hall. And the Peroni was excellent!

Worst: The cruise ship cuisine
Why: Seasick. I shoulda stayed in Rome.

Julia in San Francisco, CA USA 04/28/2008

Best: Osteria Ponte Sisto, Ristorante Enotica Corsi and Cafe Dello Studente
Why: All excellent value, friendliness and outstanding food

Cathy Garvey in Baldwinsville, NY USA 04/27/2008

Best: il Gabriello
Why: fantastic food, fun small atmosphere

Tim Johnson in New Castle, DE USA 04/08/2008

Best: Ostaria di Mario
Why: So good, so friendly, so cozy. Just loved this place. THey have the best rigatoni alla carbonara of 10 days in Italy (I ate it almost daily).

Robert in Longview, wa USA 04/06/2008

Best: Ricci Est Est Est Pizzeria
Why: From a purely financial standpoint, it's probably necessary for most American tourists to eat some pizza in Rome (the low value of the dollar makes all restaurant meals overpriced). When considering ambiance, pizza-quality and service, this one is a good choice.

Worst: Gelateria alla Scala in Trastevere
Why: not terrible, just not above average for homemade gelato. I would not "seek it out" as you recommend.

Dave in Philadelphia, PA USA 03/04/2008

Best: teatro der pallaro and ristorante alla rampa
Why: First time to der Pallaro. Nice to have something different. I'm dying to know what they served the night before and the next night; the descriptions here sounded an awful lot like what we had. Went to alla Rampa twice -- been there before. For my money, it's the best value in Rome. The meats are almost all 10 euros, the same as the pastas. The waiters are not rude -- you just have to flirt with them a little and not let them take you too seriously.

Worst: target
Why: "soulless" is the perfect word. And overpriced for what it is. Not bad, just nothing special. And at these prices, every meal should be something special.

April Smith in Stonington, CT USA 02/24/2008

Best: Ristorante il Gabriello
Why: Quiet ambiance,wonderful food at reasonable prices.

Worst: Rist. Pizzaria Sacro e Profano
Why: Sunday afternoon at 230pm they wouldn't seat us for lunch and were not all that nice about it. Also, La Rusticella, although the antipaso bar may be good, the rest of the food is barely average. Soup tasted like water. They overcharged by 10 euros for a wine we had elsewhere.

Liz Phelps in Pittsburg, CA USA 02/18/2008

Best: Trattoria der Pallaro
Why: The food in Rome, to me, was the best from my three-some week trip in Italy. And this place was my favorite. The motherly welcome I got on my return visit. The wonderful food. And at 23 euros for an collection of antipasto, pasta, secondi, dessert, water and wine it was a good deal.

Other places I cannot ignore in Rome are Ristorante il Gabriello (THE place for a splurge), Filetti de Baccala (good budget open, opens earlier than most roman restaurants, and unlike Rick I did not think the puntarelle salad was strange and bitter, just good) and Ristorante Enoteca Corsi (would have ranked it higher if it was open for dinner as well as lunch, but lots of families on a Saturday eating great food, all of us happy)

Worst: Resaurant Target
Why: What am I missing? The feedback here was good, but I got the worst food I ate while in Rome (eight days), and it was not even very cheap. All that was positive was that during a thunderstorm, it was close to my hotel so I didn't have to go very far. A (dis)honorable mention goes to Ristorante da Fortunato. The food was good, but at those prices (40 euros per person), it needs to be better than "good" And the service was not up to par. As a lone traveller, I should still be given the wine list, and if I ask for recommendations, look me in the eye if you want to avoid the question and say the pasta without specifics.

Brian Gulledge in Woodbridge, VA USA 02/11/2008

Best: Target
Why: Ambiance was nice with an attentive staff. Food better than average and reliable. Great house wine.

Worst: Sacro E Profano
Why: It was a total tourist trap. There was a large group dining with a tour company. Others were steered by Rick Steves as evidenced by the Rome guide on their tables. The food was overpriced for the quality which was bad. Do not go!

Soo Jung Lee in Decatur, GA USA 01/19/2008

Best: Al Viminale, Piazza del Viminale
Why: Italo and his family run this restaurant. I think they do most of their business at lunch, as we were the only people there in the evening. The food was fresh and very good, and the tiramisu was the best we had in Italy. The service was very good, the bathroom was clean, and we never felt rushed. A great way to end our trip!

Worst: Il Barocco, Via Napoli
Why: When we travel we like most to eat like and with the locals. Il Barocco was recommended by a staff-person at our hotel, but it was more like an Italian version of Denny's than a good Italian restaurant. We saw no Italians except the wait-staff, and the food was mediocre at best.

Chris in Darnestown, MD USA 12/16/2007

Best: Il Gabriello in Rome
Why: We selected this restaurant because it was close to our hotel and raining the night we went. The food was very, very good--one of our best meals of the trip. We arrived at 7 pm wo reservation but they gave us a table. The place was completely full by the time we left. The staff are attentive and fun. We also liked Alla Rampa--the antipasta plate is plenty for a meal. Everything on the menu is 10 euros.

Susan Jennings in Atlanta, Ga USA 11/19/2007

Best: Ristorante alla Rampa
Why: Great location near the Spanish Steps. Food was delicious - especially the penne alla rampa. Best tiramisu I had in Italy!

Stephanie in Springfield, IL USA 11/04/2007

Best: Tre Scalini and Osteria del Anima
Why: Just had gelato from take out side of Tre Scalini, but it was the best, especially the dark chocolate. And I tried 2 gelato stores each day!

I don't think Osteria del Anima is in Rick's book, but it should be! Wonderful! Right around the corner from Tre Scalini (from Tre Scalini, face north, take the left where you get Tre Scalini gelato, take the first right and wander a few yards. It's on your right.) Highly recommended by our Rome Walks tour guide. Especially the pear & gorgonzola stuffed pasta with cream and carrot sauce!

Speaking of which, Rome Walks tours was great! Our guides were very knowledgeable and friendly.

Stacie in Olympia, WA USA 11/04/2007

Best: Miscellanea
Why: Great food and reasonable prices. Mikki has a soft spot for children, and mine (ages 9 and 11) loved him. We went back a second time on our last night in Rome. Mikki gave us his homemade pistachio gelato, strawberry wine and other extras both times (at no charge).

Michael Sherwood in Prescott Valley, AZ USA 10/29/2007

Best: Gioia Mia, 34 Via del Avignonese (near Trevi Fountain)
Why: We ended up having most of our meals in Rome here. At first glance, it's an exercise in controlled chaos but that's part of the fun! After our second dinner there, the staff welcomed my mother and I like old friends. The waiters were equal parts raucous, charming, and perpetual motion. It seems to be popular among both locals and visitors, and vacant tables are rare. Though this is a pizzeria at heart, we loved the starter pasta plates (especially the salmon fettucine) which were meals in themselves. The menu also offers a good range of Italian favorites. If you're staying near the Trevi, definitely steer clear of the tourist trap joints near there and check this place out.

Mike in Denver, CO USA 10/24/2007

Best: Ristorante alla Rampa
Why: Great location near Spanish Steps, with lots of outdoor seating and wonderful antipasto bar.

Ron in DeWitt, MI USA 10/17/2007

Best: La Torre
Why: This restaurant is situated in Trastevere, Via Natale del Grande, is very good and not expensive at all...

Charles in Ohio, USA 09/30/2007

Worst: Ristorante All Rampa---Spanish Steps
Why: This was my 7th trip to Europe and the only time I have ever felt rushed in a restaurant in Europe. The food was fine but the service was terrible. Rude waiter. He was actually openly hostile. 2 items ordered were charged higher on bill than indicated on menu. Their only concern seemed to be getting people in and out as quickly as possible. A tourist trap experience at best and this was on a weeknight in late September 2007.

Greg Morris in Tarpon Springs, Fl USA 09/28/2007

Worst: Caffe dello Studente
Why: I can't believe all the positive statements about this place on the graffiti wall. The service was awful - people were getting up to get their own menus! And the food was worse. I ordered a "chicken cutlet" for 11 euros - not cheap for lunch - and it was an oval gray "patty" plopped on my plate with some lettuce, for that amount of money I at least thought it would be a real piece of meat. In 45 days across 7 countries and 10 cities, it was the only meal I couldn't eat; that is saying something. The next night I ate at a different restaurant and had a chicken dish for the same price and it was delicious and real chicken. Can't believe Rick would recommend this place, or if so, he should at least warn about getting any "meat" dishes! In short, way overpriced, some of the worst service i've ever had, and the only inedible meal in over 100 meals on a 6-week trip. Pretty awful! I should've known it would be bad news when I saw that most of the items on the menu were marked as frozen - including all of the pizzas.

Debra Black in Los Anglees, CA USA 09/18/2007

Worst: La Carbonara on Campo dei Fiori
Why: The service was so terrible and the waiter so completely rude, that, despite the food being good (not great), it wasn't worth it at all. And, it was terribly overpriced for what it was. For one appetizer, two first course pasta dishes, and a 375 mL bottle of wine, our bill was 52 Euro.

Allison Hardin in Atlanta, GA USA 09/13/2007

Worst: Caffeteria Gastronomia Antica Roma/blocks from the Spanish steps
Why: Me & my new bride went to Rome on the last leg of our our Honeymoon during August 2007. It was extremely busy but wonderful for the most part. The only bad experience we had was a Gelateria where two of the workers attempted to charge us 28 Euro for 2 Ice creams. My wife had a cup with 2 scoops of the same flavor and I had a Waffle cone with 2 scoops of chocolate. We gave the ice cream back because they would not reduce the price, they were cursing us in Italian (I speak Italian). I was so upsetand my wife mentioned that they had done something similar to another American man ahead of us in the line. Please make sure that when you walk into a place like this, you check the menu or ask how much the item is up front otherwise you'll get the runaround. I was walking in for a nice treat and walked out so upset I could not believe it and all over an Ice cream cone. It is very busy and the counter people can be very short & ill mannered.

joseph in long beach, ca USA 08/19/2007

Best: Caffe dello Studente
Why: close to the Colosseum though a bit of an uphill trek, but good food, not expensive, fast service, nice restroom, and they did indeed waive the cover charge when they saw our copy of the guidebook

JoAnne Sulak in Leesburg, VA USA 08/16/2007

Best: Mirage Ristorante, Fiumicino, near airport
Why: I am recommending Mirage Ristorante Pizzeria in Fuimicino, ocean view on Lungomare della Salute. Tel. 06 65 84 169. Fabulous food and wine, untouched California feel, 10 minutes from the airport.

P.Whisenhunt in Carlsbad, CA USA 08/10/2007

Best: Miscellanea and Osteria da Mario
Why: Both of these restuarants were delicious and homey. Miscellanea had the most delicious salad I've ever had, for 6 euros, and awesome bruchetta pomodoro. The owner, Mikki, caught us on our way out and charmed us and then made us go in and get a glass of his "sexy", yummy strawberry wine. Then he had us sit down with him and a couple of his regulars who were visiting from Belgium, and we had an enjoyable conversation and learned tips on sights and restuarants. Osteria da Mario had delicious pasta and cheap wine, and once again we were seated next to two local Italians who we soon got into a conversation with about Italy/U.S. differences, etc. Both evenings were so enjoyable!

Worst: Not really the worst...Restaurant Target
Why: It wasn't awful, just nothing special. The pizza was good but seemed a bit overpriced, as was the appetizer, once slice of toast with topping for 7 euros. The service was fine, but I think you could find better food for the price elsewhere.

Devin in Olympia, WA USA 08/08/2007

Worst: Ristorante Grotte del Teatro di Pompeo
Why: We had a number of problems. First, when ordering what we thought was the house wine, we were brought a bottle that the waiter said was very good. Only when we got the bill did we find out that this was a much more expensive wine than what we thought we ordered. When our "bill" came, it consisted of a very small scrap of paper with numbers scrawled on it, but no itemization of anything (which we found out later, from our hotel staff, is illegal in Italy). When we politely tried to question our bill, the waiter got quite upset and brought out the owner. She loudly and hurriedly tried to tell us what everything cost, but we had also determined that they charged us for an entree we never ordered (plus the expensive wine). We tried to point out the mistake in the extra entree, but she kept insisting that we ordered it. She then sent over an English-speaking woman, whom we figured would try to help with the language barrier. Turns out she was a disgruntled ex-patriot and friend of the owner who loudly insulted us and patronized us, suggesting that maybe we didn't understand dollars vs. Euros, and making other condescending remarks. It was an absolutely horrible experience. We were in Italy for 2 weeks in a number of cities and never had an experience anything like this (thankfully). And I notice from the board that someone else had a similar experience with the bill. We were happy with all the other recommend restaurants, but would never recommend this one.

Paula Telesco in Chelmsford, MA USA 08/02/2007

Best: Ristorante alla Rampa
Why: Although it took a bit longer to get waited on than I would have preferred, the food was delicious. We did try the self-serve antipasto spread, and it's a great chance to try several different kinds of Italian food and it all tasted wonderful. We also had the best pasta there!

Pamela Braun in Columbus Junction, IA USA 07/30/2007

Best: Target-around Termini station
Why: Service is no longer slow--three courses for one person in under an hour.

Worst:
Why: the ones around the spanish steps were closed (temporarily?)

Brian in Cleveland, OH USA 07/26/2007

Best: Ristorante il Gabriello in Rome
Why: Wonderful food, good service, friendly staff and a charming dining room. The best meal we had in Rome!

Worst: Ristorante alla Rampa
Why: Rick says the service here is "impersonal." I would call it downright rude. The food was pretty good but not even close to il Gabriello. The buffet mentioned in Rick's book was picked over by 21:00 and not replenished. I was disappointed in the whole experience.

Sue in Apple Valley, MN USA 07/18/2007

Best: Perilli in Prati
Why: Very friendly staff and the food was great.

Worst: La Carbonara.
Why: Success is spoiling it. Crowded and you have to wait to get in.

Marsh Mendez in Fremont, CA USA 07/12/2007

Worst: Tre Scaline, Rome
Why: Terrible service and mediocre food.

Tony Beccaccio in Fairfax, Ca USA 07/02/2007

Worst: Fiaschetteria
Why: Food was fair at best. Seating outside is very dangerous....heavy automobile traffic and constant barrage of beggars bothering you while you eat. Staff does nothing to discourage them.

Dave Schleh in Stillwater, MN USA 07/02/2007

Best: Miscellanea
Why: Good, inexpensive food. Plus the Sexy Wine was delicious.

Darrin in Glendale Heights, IL USA 06/21/2007

Worst: Ristorante la Carbonara
Why: Service was poor as you warned in the guide but the food was simply awful. It was clear it had been made ahead in large quantities and reheated. In my opinion, this restaurant is simply a tourist trap and not interested in providing the customer good food or service.

Barbara Veit in Glen Rock, NJ USA 06/07/2007

Best:
Why: Can't remember the name, but her picture is right there at the start of the chapter! Little place behind Campo di Fiori. If she sees your book, she will grab it, sign it and show all the other guests. Fabulous traditional dinner. You get what she's serving that night, so you may have something different than your neighbor if she runs out of something.

Lewis Family in Federal Way, WA USA 05/25/2007

Best: Caffe dello Studente; Pizza Rustica
Why: The food was delicious and remarkably cheap: 3 euros for a 2-litre bottle of ice-cold water, and 2.75 for a huge panini (we're talking the size of two Rick Steve's books side-by-side) stuffed with diavolo and mozzarella. Simona treats guests with Rick Steve's books like royalty, showed us to a seat (free because we had the guidebook), and made food recommendations. Staff was very very friendly and the price was unbeatable. It's a little walk from the Coliseum, but the views are still great and it's WAY cheaper than the restaurants around the Coliseum.

Pizza Rustica are GREAT, especially for chain shops! They make very tasty pizza at dirt-cheap prices: 90 cents for margherita, 1.30 for most other kinds, and 1.80 for huge calzones that could easily feed two people. They're small, so be prepared to order and pay fast, but the value is worth it, especially the ones near Vatican City.

Megan Stoner in Jackson, MS USA 05/25/2007

Worst: Trattoria da Lucia
Why: I actually didn't eat here...why, because both times I went here they completely ignored us when they relized we were tourists. They had plenty of tables open on both nights I tried (Sun and Tues) and just flat out told us to go somewhere else as they were busy. They were not that busy, that had only 8 tables filled.

BTW, the second time I tried to make a reservation and they told me they did not take reservations which is a lie!

Don't go here, they don't want tourists!

Rob in Tampa, FL USA 05/23/2007

Best: Osteria Ponte Sisto
Why: This place was a standout. The Gnocchi was the best I've ever had. The staff was helpful and went out of their way to accomodate us. Really my best restaurant experience in Rome and I'm a hardcore foodie! GO HERE!

Rob in Tampa, FL USA 05/23/2007

Best: Miscellanea
Why: The handsome guy who led us there (Met him in a store when asking for directions) he has great hair and a motorcycle! Also met Mikki. Food was great!

J P Pardini in Philadelphia, PA USA 05/04/2007

Best: Miscellanea
Why: Good food & drink, Mikki & his son Romeo. We didn't feel hurried, aand it was fun to have Mikki sit and talk with us about the world, our smoking habit and the wonderful folks of rome. I think we settled a most of the world's problems the over a few hours and a few bottles of wine.

Mark E. Lamb in Melbourne, Fl USA 04/26/2007

Best: Miscellanea
Why: Using your book we were served Mikki's strawberry wine (excellent!!) We also met Mikki and his son Romeo. Mikki sat and talked with us on two evenings and Romeo served us all three nights. We had missed seeing you by two weeks. That would have absolutely made the trip for us if we had been able to meet and talk with you. Next Rome program we would love to see Mikki. We have Mikki and Romeo on our video cam. Also enjoyed Caffe dello Studente. We obtained a free table with your book (again) and met wonderful people.

Lee Lamb in Melbourne, FL USA 04/23/2007

Worst: Trattoria da Lucia
Why: We were seated in a back room by ourselves. Granted, we didn't have reservations, so may have been our fault. But we were certainly ignored by the server and food was just okay. It's in Trastevere.

Robin W. in Richland, WA USA 04/21/2007

Best: Osteria da Mario
Why: Close to the Pantheon. Nearly everyone eating had Rick's book on their table. The carbonara was amazing.

Worst: Ristorante Grotte del Teatro di Pompeo
Why: Food was okay, but waiter was crabby, and we were overcharged for service. Menu listed 1 Euro per person, we paid 2 Euro, and it seemed there was an extra 4 Euro on the bill that they couldn't seem to explain. There are a lot of postings for this place under the "best" section, but I am disappointed this wasn't our experience as well!

Robin W. in Richland, WA USA 04/21/2007

Best: Hostaria da Nerone
Why: My husband and I enjoyed this restaurant very much. We first ate there last year and hastened back again this year upon our return to Rome. We like to dine at restaurants favored by locals - and Nerone is such an establishment. Travelers appear to find it pleasing also. The De Santis family has owned and operated Hostaria da Nerone for over forty years and take great pride in what they prepare and serve. The menu contains a wealth of classic Roman cuisine, with perhaps a touch of Abruzzi - from whence this family came. Basic, wholesome fare. There is also a superb buffet if you prefer to browse. A nice selection of wines. And, of course, one must mention Teo - cameriere par excellence, for whom nothing is too much trouble if it pleases the diner. With its sunny yellow tablecloths and charming atmosphere, Hostaria da Nerone is a small gem in the heart of ancient Rome. Via delle Terme di Tito, within sight of the Colosseum.

Barbara Hoertz in Buford, GA USA 04/06/2007

Best: Perilli in Prati
Why: My daughter and I enjoyed a wonderful lunch at this peaceful, pleasant restaurant close to the Vatican. My daughter had the BEST pizza we have ever had, and I feasted on their incredible lunch buffet, full of Tuscan delights. The staff was most pleasant (explained each item on the buffet for me) and accomodating. Dessert was divine. I would highly recommend - it was the best food we experienced in Rome.

Janet in Caille, GA USA 04/03/2007

Best: Osteria da Mario
Why: at first put off as everyone seemed to be American but our table mate turned out to be a German TV producer whose Italian counterpart recommended restaurant- great deal, excellent simple food- no 10% service tacked on either like we found was the case in so many restaurants- my husband had a beer, a first and second course meal and an excellent antipasti plate that we shared- I had a second plate and we split a liter of wine- cost: 38 Euro total which was great

Worst: Fiaschetteria
Why: A long wait to get in- nice but annoyed Italian couple were angry that their reservation lost- told us that of late the place has become very popular- we didn't mind the wait (an hour) as we sat nearby at cafe and had a drink but then the service was unfriendly and food terrible- my veal scallopine tough and tasteless- my husbands "bisteca" (steak) riddled with fat and absolutely inedible in fact--- didn't dare to try to return as Italians don't like that! not reasonably priced either- would skip for sure. oh and no English menu- which we like as it seems more "authentic" but if you prefer knowing what is on menu guess you wouldn't like that aspect

anne in abingdon, MD USA 03/27/2007

Best: Al Bric
Why: Our taxi driver had also recommended this restaurant to us as "non-touristica". Service and food was very good, portions are smaller than other restaurants, but it just leaves more room for you to try the other courses.

Worst: Osteria de Mario
Why: Service was lacking. Food was the worst we ate. Our sausage was raw in the middle and the pasta was nothing to rave about

Desiree in Clarksville, TN USA 03/14/2007

Best: tre scalini
Why: death by chocolate was delicious

Annie in Chan, NY USA 03/03/2007

Best: Da Vito e Dina
Why: It was a nice restaurant near St. Peter's. Great atmosphere and great food, especially the pasta with seafood. My wife loved the spinach ravioli. It is on Via degli Scipioni - a couple of blocks from Piazza Riorgimento.

RobertC in Sandy Hook, CT USA 02/28/2007

Best: Il Gabriello
Why: Hands down, the best experiences of our two-week stay. After eating there our second night in Rome, we cancelled our New Year's Eve reservation elsewhere. The nine course meal was wonderful. Then at 11:30, as we were preparing to go outside for the fireworks, Claudio said "no, no, stay for party." Just before midnight, the guest who remained had a bottle of sparkling delivered to their tables--Claudio counted down and we popped the corks. Then we heard an Italian tenor singing; the "party" was their family's celebration with family members playing the guitar and singing. It was one of our most memorable New Year's Eve. Oh, yes, on our last night in Rome we returned for "Claudio's extravaganza" with a warm welcome from Claudio and staff and a third marvelous dining experience.

James in Biddle, OH USA 01/12/2007

Best: Ristorante Enoteca Corsi (near the Pantheon)
Why: After reading about it in the RS guide and reading that Rachael Ray loves it and eats there every time she's in Rome, we had to try it. We were served by beautiful, gracious Manuela. Without a doubt, this had to be our best meal in Italy. The aromas of the day's specials were killer as we walked in...the food was the best we had in Italy. Great prices, cozy atmosphere...a MUST for lunch (no dinners)in Rome. Rick Steves calls it "a supurb value"-absolutely true.

Worst: Miscellanea
Why: Maybe we were just there on an off night or we ordered the wrong foods...but the food was just not very good. My daughter thought her ravioli tasted just like it was out of a can. No one in our group of 4 had an enjoyable meal. On the (only) plus side, they did give us each (even my 14 year old!!!...no ID wanted ever wanted in Italy!!!) a glass of free dessert wine at the end of our meal.

Terry in Bend, OR USA 01/10/2007

Best: Caffe dello Studente
Why: Good food, close to Colliseum, affordable

Ryan Ellis in Washington, DC USA 12/08/2006

Best: Trattoria der Pallaro, others also good
Why: Excellent food. Paola came out the door with a big smile. We took a bus to get there.

Excellent food. Paola came ou the door with a big smile. it was easy to rach by bus.

Sue Hall in Wilson, WY USA 11/29/2006

Best: Ristorante Grotte del Teatro di Pompeii
Why: Good food, good service and great prices. We enjoyed it so much, we went twice on our recent trip. They make suggestions, but are not pushy about it. More locals than tourists.

Worst: Osteria da Mario
Why: Poor, indifferent service. Food was okay, not great. About 90% of clientele were English-speaking tourists.

Allen in Vancouver, Canada 11/28/2006

Best: Restaurant Giglio
Why: Very good food and nice service.

Worst: Pub Flan O'Brian on Via Nazionale
Why: Disgusting food and very bad service.

Kevin Blocchetti in Park City, Ut USA 11/28/2006

Best: Ristorante Grotte del Teatro di Pompeo
Why: The food was excellent and real local, but very welcoming. You must meet Antonella who runs the place, and she will be your Italian mom. Make sure you finish your meal because she'll ask you if you don't like it. We went back twice, and saw the same Italian families. A real treat.

Joseph Barone in Princeton, NJ USA 11/21/2006

Best: WANTED by Bierreria Moretti
Why: A wierd name. Not a Rick recommendation, but they had friendly service, spoke a little English, had low prices, great German beer and great food and were open all day. Mid day service is on the patio (share it with the smokers and scooter/car/bus fumes) or they do have a mid-day indoor section that is not the regular main dining room. Easy to get to on electric bus # 116. 1 block from Via Cavor on V. Serpenti, # 166-167-168; Tel 06 47881057

Worst: Mc Donalds
Why: Oh please. Don't even mention it. We went there only because there was a coupon on the 110 Bus ticket for a burger and drink for only 1 Euro. Pathetic. Mc D and Burger King or any other US Franchises should not be in your book in our opinion.

Glenn Stokes in San Diego, CA USA 11/14/2006

Worst: the cafeteria at Ostia Antica
Why: The only bad meal we had in Italy - almost inedible. To top it off, it was expensive for what it was. Strongly recommend bringing a picnic lunch on the train and eating it outdoors at the cafeteria or in the ruins.

Dawn Kinsel in Calabasas, CA USA 11/08/2006

Best: Ristorante Enoteca Corsi
Why: The food was delicious, and service was very friendly.

K. Zednick in Frankfort, IL USA 11/02/2006

Best: Hostaria Costanza
Why: Dinner was delicious. Service was prompt, and courteous. Our waiter was nice to us, but we did hear him mumble "Oy Americanos", while leaving another table!

K. Zednick in Frankfort, IL USA 11/02/2006

Best: Ostaria da Giovanni ar Galleto
Why: We tried this restaurant on our 1st evening. It was absolutely delicious, and the service was great. I loved the spinach ravioli! We ate inside the 1st time, and enjoyed the atmosphere. We returned 2 nights later, because we so enjoyed ourselves. This time we ate outside next to the fountain. Beautiful, and delicious again!

K. Zednick in Frankfort, IL USA 11/02/2006

Best: Caffe Dello Studente
Why: Food was good. When Simona saw your book she treated us like long lost cousins. She found us atable outside, brought out our lunch and treated us to dessert and limoncello. She graciously posed for a picture with us and we promised to send it to you. How can we do this?

Worst: Ristorante la Carbonara
Why: We had a waiter with an attitude. He didn't want to give us a table outside even though there were several. He didn't tell us about the antipasti buffet, which looked pretty good. The food was mediocre, they were out of my first choice 30 min after openingand my veal cutlet came with good old American frozen french fries. Was the most we spent on dinner in Rome.

Bourne & Carol Rigano in Stillwater, NY USA 10/24/2006

Best: Giglio
Why: The food and service were as described. A good dining experience

Dorothy Green in Orlando, FL USA 10/13/2006

Best: Caffe dello Studente
Why: What a wonderful, fun experience. Simona gave us an incredibly warm, enthusiastic welcome as "Rick Steves' people"; she even has created a special "Rick Steves'" menu (although we ordered from the regular menu). We started placing our order with Simona's husband, but Simona came over and talked us out of our antipasto selection ("I will make you a better one," she said -- it was terrific!) She also brought us complimentary welcome drinks and limoncello after the meal. The pasta and toasted sandwich we ordered were delicious. It's a little bit of a walk from the Colosseum, but well worth seeking out.

Cynthia Dlugosz in Ann Arbor, MI USA 10/09/2006

Worst: Trattoria(?) Da Lucia's in Trastavere
Why: Not sure of the name, but it is Da Lucia's in Trastavere. We walked a while to seek out this place but when we asked to get a table we were virtually ignored by all the staff and waiters. They walked in and out of the restaurant and said nothing. There was no attempt to accomodate us in any way. When we asked again we got an impatient reply "Dove" (where?!) We were very disappointed and it nearly ruined our night. We felt very unwelcome. We suppose they do not want foreigners there and suggest you remove this place from your book.

David Tuniman in Seattle, WA USA 10/02/2006

Best: Ristorante Grotte del Teatro di Pompeo
Why: absolutely delicious and the prices were much less than the neighboring restaurants

Worst: Trattoria der Pallaro
Why: My husband liked it, but just having anything brought to your table and no seafood was not my cup of tea. There was a lot of food but not great quality but loads of food.

Michele Mahan in Burbank, ca USA 09/16/2006

Best: Della Palma- gelato near the Pantheon
Why: We sampled A LOT of gelato on our 3 weeks around Italy. My husband and I both liked the gelato from Della Palma the best. I don't usually like chocolate ice cream, but their tartfuo gelato is unbelivable. We've been back from our trip for a month, and I'm still talking and dreaming about it!

Julie in Santa Barbara, CA USA 08/07/2006

Worst: Pub Flann O'Brian on Via Nazionale, Rome
Why: Poisoning experience, I had to call the doctor in the middle of the night after Dinner to this horrible place.Very bad Service and Disgusting Food. I don't understand how can be a raccomandable Restaurant.

Leo Case in San Diego, Ca USA 07/20/2006

Worst: Flann O'Brien Irish Pub
Why: The service was horrible. For 4 of us we waited about 30 min. for our food, then they didn't even bring out my husband's steak. They only brought out his fries. We asked the waiter where his steak was and his response was, "Perhaps it's coming." Then once we were finished eating we had to track down our waiter to get the bill. The couple sitting next to us also had a similar experience, except the man never received his dinner and it went completely unnoticed.

Tony & Allison Pass in Issaquah, WA USA 07/14/2006

Best: Ristorante Grotte del Teatro di Pompeo
Why: This was probably the best meal we had in Rome. The fresh mozzarella was wonderful, the house wine was good, all our dishes were perfect, and the waiter was friendly with good suggestions.

Summer Trentin in Cedar Rapids, IA USA 07/12/2006

Best: Tre Scalini!
Why: gelato mmmmm, and the tartofu is unmatched!

Patti USA 07/04/2006

Best: Hostaria dei Bastioni
Why: We ate here on our first day in Rome. It was hot, and we chose to eat inside. There is a small dining room which was mostly occupied by locals. We ordered different dishes, all of which were well prepared--like mom's kitchen. Following Rick's advise I ordered the seafood rissoto. It was very good, and the prices were quite reasonable.

Worst: Trattoria Al Cuppolone
Why: This tourist trap is located at Borgo Pio 92. Don't go there. They show you a colorful menu and smile, until you sit down. Then the "fun" begins. Our waiter kept insisting we order dishes we did not want. We placed one order of meatballs, and were brought two, we placed one order of bruschetta, and were brought four. When we attempted to explain we only wanted/needed one, our waiter suddenly forgot how to speak English. I ordered a "quarto" of the house red, and was brought a full bottle. When I complained, it was switched for a small bottle of what I thought was the house wine until the bill arrived. The bill for the small bottle of wine turned out to be three times the cost of the large bottle of house red! As we ate our meal, I noticed that other diners were subjected to the same scams.

To top it all off, the bill contained a 15% service charge which the waiter and the owner insisted was a "house charge" and not "the tip." The waiter hovered over us as I settled the bill, in an almost threatening attitude, to ensure he would receive some type of tip.

Avoid this place.

Ubaldo J. Perez, Jr. in Miami Lakes, FL USA 06/25/2006

Worst: Restaurante Cabonara- Rome
Why: The food was ok but the service sucked. The waiter was so rude we almost left. All of those flower vendors and musicians bothered us the whole time as well.

Melissa D. in Issaquah, WA USA 06/05/2006

Worst: Pub Flan O'Brian - Target
Why: Six of us were eating for dinner at this so called Irish Pub. All of us have to call the doctor at the middle of the night because the rubbish and disgusting food we did eat. If you d0n't want to ruin your holiday you better choice another place to eat. The place was very dirty and shabby and the staff was very rude. For the second try we went to Target Restaurant in Via Torino. The food was better ( no problem at night ) but: Incredible rude staff, over the bill they charged, Tip, Taxes, and cover charge. Those things for six of us was Euro 80,00 for something we did not eat. This amount was out of thye bill and they pretend it cash only. We felt ripped off and I don't understand how Rick clould recommend those places. I saw things I did not see even in my original country, Colombia.

Frank Ardilez in Santa Monica, Ca USA 05/26/2006

Best: Tre Scalini in Piazza Navonna and Osteria de Mario near Pantheon
Why: Tre Scalini - Great service and good food (Fruits de Mare anti-pasta, canneloni, and tiramasu), and great people watching. Osteria de Mario - good food and location, and friendly service. Just off the beaten path to provide great ambience. Loved to watch the waiters trying to catch glimpses of the football game on TV at the bar next door.

Worst: Most places on Piazza Pantheon
Why: too touristy, loud, and busy. Food OK, but had better nearly every place else.

Alan Scott in Missouri City, TX USA 05/11/2006

Best: Pizzaria Chickenhouse Restaurante - 107 Cavour Avenue,Rome
Why: This was probably the best food we had the whole time we were in Italy. They smoke all of their meats - the flavor was exceptional! The waiters were actually pleasant and attentive which we found very little of at other restaurants in Italy. They brought us appetizers to try that we did not order and they did not charge us for. Played lots of 50's American music (? if for our benefit), and would sing and dance while singing. We ate here our last 2 nights in Italy it was so good.Everyone should try this place.

Heidi York in Skowhegan, Ma USA 05/01/2006

Best: Tre Puppazzi on Borgio Pio
Why: NOT touristy but if you eat there twice they consider you a regular. Charming, delicious, reasonable prices, many Italians eat there.

Pam Notebaert in Canandaigua, NY USA 04/22/2006

Best: Gelateria Caffe Pasticceria Giolitti
Why: Okay, it's not a restaurant, but we had the best gelato at this location. The variety of flavors is amazing.

Worst: Ristorante il Gabriello
Why: Too Americanized for my taste. After experiencing the unique flavors of Florence and Tuscany, this restaurant was a big disappointment.

Mrs. Muir GA USA 04/20/2006

Best: Trattoria da Pallaro
Why: This little spot near Piazza Navona, while a little tough to find, was a real gem. It is so nice not to have to decide what to order, but just to eat whatever delicacies they choose to bring you. 5 courses for 20 Euros, while a bit steep for children (no discount even for our 5-year-old) was a real treat and a bargain for teh adults. We had a wonderful array of antipasti, simple but flavorful penne pomodori, delicious roasted veal with veggiesand a really nice cake for dessert (which I don't remember well b/c I was so full when it arrived). The proprietors love Americans and proudly point out Sra. Pallero's photo in the Rome 2006 guidebook.

Steve Heinen in Tulsa, OK USA 04/11/2006

Best: Ristorante alla Rampa
Why: Waiters were very helpful and friendly Food was outstanding Buffet was good too

Worst: Fiaschetteria, Via della Croce
Why: nothing is available in English, had to ask for bread, salt and pepper, cheese small place

Allen DaGue in St Louis, Mo USA 04/02/2006

Best: Restaurant alla Rampa
Why: Had a great meal of polenta with pork gravy; the tiramisu is unique and the ricotta chessecake a standout. Arrive early.

Worst: Tre Scalini
Why: It has a great location on Piazza Navona but two cappucinos and one tartufo were 15 euro!! Be forewarned.

louise Phillips in staten Island, ny USA 04/01/2006

Worst: Da Mario Via della Vite 55-56
Why: The service was borderline rude and the food unremarkable. We were charged 12 Euros for a basket of bread (per the menu it should have been 7.50 Euros - 1.50 Euro person) and double for the wine. We insisted they correct the bill- which they did. I would never go back there again.

J in HONOLULU, HI USA 03/30/2006

Best: Ostaria da Mario
Why: It was exactly how the book described it to be. Everything we ordered was excellent. Service was so-so. Once we complimented on the food, our server (the owner?) warmed up to us.

Worst: Ristorante Grotte del Teatro di Pompeo
Why: Service was horrible. I had requested there to be no cheese in my pasta. Unfortunately, it came with cheese in it. When confronting the waitress (the owner?), she denied that there was cheese in my dish. When she saw that I didn't eat it, she took away my dish and gave me a menu. When the check came, it did not reflect the menu prices. She just scribbled the prices on the back of someone else's check and attemted to add the prices in front of us in English outloud really fast. It happened to another couple sitting next to us. Their check did not reflect the prices printed on the menu either.

Eva Tai in Ellicott City, MD USA 03/28/2006

Best: Ostaria da Giovanni ar Galletto
Why: Food was great, service was good and the waiter had a twinkle in his eye. It was a nice mix of tourists and locals.

Mary Olinger in Richmond, VA USA 03/19/2006