29 Best Cheap Eats In Rome for Frugal Foodies in 2024

Looking for the best cheap eats in Rome? Save your precious time and euros: We’ve done the work for you!

This Best Cheap Eats in Rome List has some amazing grab-and-go street food options you won’t want to miss, no matter your budget. Additionally, the list includes the best affordable restaurants in Rome with plenty of primi (first courses) and secondi (second course) at €15 or less.

My last trip to Rome (and I’m lucky enough to have had many) was unexpectedly extended by three weeks. Unfortunately, my last-minute hotel cost me a pretty penny. As a result, I was on the hunt for the best places to eat with good-quality, cheap food.

As a chef, I can’t sacrifice taste—even when affordable prices are important. And if I’m in the Eternal City, I don’t just want Italian food, I want to eat traditional Roman dishes.

One of the best cheap eats in Rome, pizza al taglio

Luckily, I found some really fabulous spots. Some are so great, I’m hesitant to share them out of fear that they’ll become too popular and thus overcrowded. But I will share them anyway!

This list contains cheap eats in Rome city center and the surrounding area. For the purposes of the list, “near” means within a 10-minute walk from the given landmark attraction. 

Note: The Piazza Navona, Pantheon, and Campo de’ Fiori are all within walking distance of each other. If you’re not opposed to walking, take a look at the following sections for all three of these attractions before deciding which cheap eats option to head to.

Cheap Eats Near Campo de’ Fiori

Of course, you can find some snacks at the Campo de’ Fiori market. But there are more stalls selling foodie gifts like olive oil, pecorino cheese, and truffle products than actual snacks. You may want to purchase some souvenirs, but try one of the following recommendations for a place to eat.

1. Antico Forno Roscioli

Antico Forno Roscioli is definitely one of the best cheap eats Rome has to offer. You’ll probably want to go more than once.

This bakery in the heart of the centro historico, or historical center of Rome, is a great place to try some of the Roman classics. From their traditional Italian breakfast pastries to pizza rossa (just tomato sauce) to porchetta sandwiches, everything is freshly made and superb.

In fact, one of the reasons I think Antico Forno Roscioli has the best porchetta in Rome is its house-made breads. It truly is one of Rome’s best bakeries!

Address: Via dei Chiavari, 34, 00186 Roma RM, Italy

Porchetta at Roscoli, one of the best cheap eats Rome has to offer

2. Dar Filettaro a Santa BarbarA

Fried fish may not be the first thing you think of when looking for cheap places to eat in Rome, but after tasting this version, you will.

Filetti di Baccalà, the signature dish at Dar Filettaro a Santa Barbara, is battered and fried salt cod. It’s a very popular dish in Rome, whereas other versions of fried cod proliferate in many of Italy’s Mediterranean neighbors.

The downside here: They don’t serve lunch (they open at 5 pm) and are closed Sundays.

Address: Largo dei Librari, 88, 00186 Roma RM, Italy

3. Cesare al Pellegrino  

Cesare al Pellegrino is one of the best restaurants for cucina Romana, period. If you’re looking to taste authentic Roman recipes, this is the place.

From handmade pastas to main courses like fried meatballs and involtini, the food is top-notch and budget friendly.

The same goes for their sister restaurant a little outside of the center of Rome, Trattoria Da Cesare al Caselleto. Of course, going to both is also a brilliant idea.

Address: Via del Pellegrino, 117, 00186 Roma RM, Italy

Not your typical cheap food in Rome, involtini at Trattoria Cesare. — Not your typical cheap food in Rome, involtini at Trattoria Cesare

4. Forno Campo de’ Fiori

If you are in the Campo de’ Fiori and need a quick bite, Forno Campo de’ Fiori will fit the bill.

It is best known for its pizza bianca, which is basically pizza crust with salt and olive oil. They serve other pizza al taglio (rectangular pizza slices) with toppings as well.

Additionally, you’ll find some simple sandwiches and scrumptious baked goods to tide you over between more substantial meals. 

Address: Campo de' Fiori, 22, 00186 Roma RM, Italy

Cheap Eats in Rome Near Piazza Navona

If you’re visiting Rome, checking out the Piazza Navona is a must. But if you want to eat cheap in Rome, you should avoid the restaurants on the piazza itself. Instead, walk just a few blocks and you’ll be greatly rewarded.

5. Mastrociccia - Osteria Bistrot

Mastrociccia is one of the cheap Rome restaurants recommended to me by numerous people.

With a wide variety of good food, reasonable prices, and cute outdoor bistro seating, it’s easy to understand its popularity.

It’s a great place to try one of the four Roman pastas (carbonara, cacio e pepe, Amatriciana, and Gricia), as well as many other typical Roman dishes.

The other thing I love about Mastrociccia is that it has continuous service from 12 to 12 every day!

Address: Via del Governo Vecchio, 76, 00186 Roma RM, Italy

One of the cheap Rome restaurants, Mastrociccia has a lovely outdoor patio. — One of the best cheap Rome restaurants, Mastrociccia has a lovely outdoor patio.

6. Giulio Passami L’Olio

Giulio Passami L’Olio has the feel of a neighborhood wine bar. People greet others at nearby tables with hugs and kisses, pull up a chair, share some food, and sip some wine.

Simply put, it’s a cheap restaurant Rome locals love. The ambiance is quite inviting, the food tasty, and the wine list is better than most.

Pro tip: I am obsessed with truffles, and their truffle cacio e pepe is the most affordable truffle dish I’ve had at any Italian restaurant anywhere. And it was so yummy!

 Address: Via di Monte Giordano, 28, 00186 Roma RM, Italy

Giulio Passami L’Olio features the most affordable truffle dish in Rome!

Cheap Eats in Rome Near the Pantheon

Chances are, if you’re visiting the Pantheon, you’ll be waiting in a long line to get in. For me, long lines often induce hunger. Best to eat before, or have a plan ready for afterwards.

7. Armando Al Pantheon

I booked a table at Armando al Pantheon before I even knew it was one of the best cheap eats in Rome. What I did know was that it had a reputation for some of the best cacio e pepe in the city, and it did not disappoint!

Armando al Pantheon quickly became one of my favorite places in Rome. With budget-friendly delicious food, how could it not be?

Unfortunately, it’s not just my favorite; many others think it’s the best restaurant near the Pantheon too. Reservations are therefore a must.

Address: Salita de' Crescenzi, 31, 00186 Roma RM, Italy

One of the best cheap eats Rome offers, cacio e pepe at Armando al Pantheon

8. Giolitti

In my family, we think ice cream is always a good idea; sometimes it’s even a meal.

If you’re near the Pantheon, Giolitti, the famous gelato shop with its roots tracing back to the 1800s, is the place to go.  

You will be astounded at the variety of frozen concoctions—cakes, cones, cups, sticks, balls, sandwiches, and more. They have many unique flavors, zabaione (similar to egg nog) being one of them.

Address: Via degli Uffici del Vicario, 40, 00186 Roma RM, Italy

9. Antica Salumeria

Located right in the same piazza as the Pantheon, you couldn’t pick a closer spot to grab a fast lunch or enjoy a lingering aperitivo.

Inside, Antica Salumeria has a few tables with stools at which to sit, or you can always eat outside in the square.

This deli (which is also a pizzicheria) serves simple food like artisan salumi boards and sandwiches. Try a plate of prosciutto or mortadella from Bologna with a selection of Italian cheeses.

Address: Piazza della Rotonda, 4, 00186 Roma RM, Italy

For an affordable lunch near the Pantheon, try Antica Salumeria.

Cheap Eats Near Trevi Fountain

I find the Fontana di Trevi to be the most crowded place in the historic center of Rome. The entire street feels like one big tourist trap. But if you are looking for cheap food in Rome by the Trevi Fountain, here’s where to eat.

10. Fraschetteria

I highly recommend walking the 10 minutes from the fountain to this tiny hidden gem near Piazza Barberini.

In Italian, the restaurant’s name implies friendly service and authentic Roman fare, and that’s exactly what you’ll receive. We really enjoyed interacting with the husband and wife team who own and operate Fraschetteria.

The menu may seem small, but everything is quite delectable. End your meal with the pistachio tiramisu. It is unquestionably one of the best desserts in Rome.

Address: Via dei Cappuccini, 26, 00187 Roma RM, Italy

For cheap eats near the Trevi Fountain, head to Fraschetteria.

11. Pinsitaly Trevi

At PinsItaly, pinsa, a type of Roman pizza, take center stage. To me, the thin oval pies look more like a flatbread than a pizza.

The flavors include classics like the simple Margherita or mushroom pinsa. For the more adventurous, try tuna with artichokes or carbonara.

This pinseria is less expensive (and less crowded) than the more well known pizzeria, Piccolo Buco, nearby. Another plus: continuous service from 10:30 am to 11:00 pm every day.

Address: Via della Panetteria, 12, 00187 Roma RM, Italy

Cheap Eats by the Spanish Steps

Another landmark surrounded by expensive tourist traps with mediocre food is the Spanish Steps. On nearby Via della Croce, restaurateurs will stand outside and lure in unsuspecting travelers. You should resist! Follow these recommendations instead.

12. Pastificio Guerra

If you’re looking for cheap pasta in Rome, Pastificio Guerra is it. In fact, they have one of the best deals in the entire city. Budget eating in Rome while still enjoying good food doesn’t get cheaper than this!

Granted, it’s completely no frills, with just some counter space at which you can stand and eat. But I don’t know of anyplace else where you can get a plate of fresh homemade pasta for less than €5—with wine and water included!

The pasta chef offers two choices daily for lunch and dinner. You can also purchase bags of pasta to make at home. 

Address: Via Della Croce, 8, 00187 Roma RM, Italy

The best place for cheap pasta in Rome is Pastificio Guerra.

13. Gino Sorbillo Roma

In general, pizza is one of the cheapest meals to order in Rome. And it’s really everywhere.

But all pizza in Rome is not created equal. And there are two additional types in addition to the pizza al taglio and pinsa previously mentioned. These are Roman and Neapolitan.

Personally, I think Neapolitan style is the best pizza not just in Rome, but anywhere. Sorry, New York and Chicago!

As one of the best pizza masters originally from Naples, Gino Sorbillo has created a Neapolitan pizza empire with multiple locations around the world.

Luckily, his fame has not made his pizzerias expensive. You can still get a gourmet pizza at his Rome location for between €8 and €15. Not, this is not a slice of Napoletana street food pizza, this is a whole pie!

Address: Piazza Augusto Imperatore, 46, 00186 Roma RM, Italy

Cheap Eats in Rome Near Piazza del Popolo

My favorite area to stay in Rome is by the Piazza del Popolo. It’s just a 10-minute walk to the Spanish Steps and close enough to the major attractions without the crowds.

14. LA VITA È UN MOZZICO

One of my newest favorite things about staying near the Piazza del Popolo is La Vita è un Mozzico. It was a half block away from where we stayed during our last visit!

This tiny shop prepares incredible panini, including one of the best porchetta sandwiches you’ll ever taste. Whatever you order will be lip-smacking good and an excellent value.

For a small extra cost, add the sautéed green vegetables to your sandwich—they’re better than any condiment.

Take a ticket when you arrive, there will most likely be a queue. Check the hours; the latest they are ever open is 5:30 pm, and they are closed Sundays.

Address: Via Angelo Brunetti, 4, 00186 Roma RM, Italy

Rome cheap eats abound at La Vita è un Mozzico.

15. PizzaRè

A taxi driver first told us about PizzaRè. Soon after, it became one of our go-to places in the hood. This is really cheap pizza—most of the options are around €10.

The friendly price is nice, but the pizzas also taste great! We tried so many kinds and loved them all. The Four Cheese (Quattro Formaggi) was the best I had in Rome, and my husband loved the Napoletana with zucchini flowers and anchovies.

Nothing fancy—just authentic wood-fired Napoletana pizza made with high-quality ingredients. You can even watch your pizza being made by the friendly staff at the front of the restaurant.

Address: Via di Ripetta 14, 00186, Roma RM, Italy

Pizza is one of the cheapest meals in Rome.

Cheap Eats Near the Vatican Museums

The area around Vatican City and its museums is one of the hardest in which to find a good affordable restaurant.

16. Romanè

It surprised me that this revered restaurant fit our requirements for cheap restaurants in Rome.

Romanè’s service is outstanding, and it feels like a restaurant for special occasions. Even the olive oil with bread at the beginning of our meal was swoon-worthy.

With a focus on local ingredients, Romanè puts a creative twist on traditional dishes.

No need to look at the wine list, order the house wine by the carafe.

Address: Via Cipro, 106, 00136 Roma RM, Italy

At Romanè, the beef stew isn’t the cheapest thing on the menu, but it’s big enough for two.

17. Bonci Pizzararium

This is the most famous place for delicious pizza al taglio.

Pizzararium was created by Gabriele Bonci who bears the nickname “the Michelangelo of Pizza.”

He is known for combining unique ingredients that not only please the palate but result in visually stunning pizzas as well.

There will most likely be a line, but it goes quickly and gives you time to decide on your choice of pizza while you wait.

Pizza al taglio is sold by weight, so if it’s your first time, go small and order a variety.  

Address: Via della Meloria, 43, 00136 Roma RM, Italy

18. La Nicchia Cafè

At first glance, Niccia Cafè appears to be a sandwich shop, but it’s so much more.

Yes, you can get gourmet sandwiches, wraps, and salads for between €6 and €8—a bargain!

But you can also peruse the fancy food items on the shelves. From the finest balsamic vinegars and olive oils to prepared sauces and truffle products, you may need to splurge and do a tasting.

Address: Via Cipro, 4L, 00136 Roma RM, Italy

Some of the specialty items at the affordable sandwich shop, La Nicchia

Cheap Eats in Trastevere

The charming neighborhood of Trastevere is known for its nightlife and students. And where there are students, there will be cheap food.

19. Trattoria Da Enzo al 29

Trattoria da Enzo is one of the good cheap restaurants Rome visitors and locals flock to. It is also a popular spot to stop at on Rome food tours.

Why is it such a popular Trastevere restaurant?

Da Enzo serves all of the essential Roman dishes at a price you can afford. This includes the best Jewish-style fried artichokes (Carciofi Alla Giudia) outside of the Jewish Quarter.

Additionally, you should try the authentic Roman pasta dishes or one of the classics of cucina povera (cuisine of the poor) like coda alla vaccinara (oxtail stew) or Trippa alla Romana (Roman tripe).

BTW, “popular” here means there will always be a wait.

Address: Via dei Vascellari, 29, 00153 Roma RM, Italy

Jewish artichokes at one of the best cheap restaurants in Rome, Da Enzo

20. Supplì Roma

Supplì is the king of Roman street food, and Supplì Roma is the king of supplì.

The quintessential Roman snack is an oval rice ball filled with tomato sauce and cheese.

In addition to the traditional version, Supplì Roma offers about a dozen other flavors with ingredients like pulled pork, eggplant, and squid ink.

If you’re super hungry, you can confidently try a pizza al taglio, calzoni fritti, or even a pasta here. Supplì Roma provides fast food at its finest, and you can even order wine or beer!

Address: Via di San Francesco a Ripa, 137, 00153 Roma RM, Italy

21. Trapizzino

Trapizzino is another super popular place prone to long lines. Grab a glass of regional wine and join the party in Piazza Trilussa.

Stefano Callegari, also the founder of Romanè, invented the stuffed pizza cones—or Trapizzini—that give this place its name.

In a land where traditional foods rule, I find the success of Trapizzino extraordinarily impressive. And the phenom has expanded to various locations around the globe.

I haven’t tasted a Trapizzino I didn’t like, but the polpetta al sugo (meatball with sauce) is outstanding. It’s the closest thing to my nana’s meatballs I’ve had in a long time.

It’s a great value at only €5!

Address: Piazza Trilussa, 46, 00153 Roma RM, Italy

Trapizzini are one of the cheapest restaurant foods in Rome.

Cheap Eats in Testaccio

If you want to know where to eat in Rome on a budget, you needn’t look any further than the Testaccio Market (Mercato di Testaccio). Go hungry and be prepared to sample a myriad of cheap snacks.

Btw, this Rome market is a must for foodies in Rome. The first two listings below are our top picks in the market, the third is close by.

22. Mordi e Vai

If you go to the Mercato di Testaccio, eating at Mordi e Vai is non-negotiable.

Can a sandwich really be that good? YES!!! Specializing in gastronomia Romanesca, the signature sandwich fillings include a variety of tender stewed meats.

The star of the show is the Allesso di Bollito sandwich. Top the melt-in-your-mouth beef with greens and salsa verde and it will be one of the best sandwiches you’ll ever have!

Vegetarians, try the smashed Roman artichoke sandwich with pecorino cheese—Yum!

Address: Nuovo Mercato Comunale di Testaccio, Via Beniamino Franklin, 12/E, 00153 Roma RM, Italy (Stall 15)

A Mordi e Vai sandwich is a must for foodies in Rome, no matter their budget.

23. La Prosciutteria di Enzo e Lina

This old-school salumeria in the market is a great spot for a quick lunch.

In addition to fantastic prosciutto, they sell all kinds of Italian charcuterie, cheese, and other food stuffs.

And it may not be obvious when you walk by, but they also make damn good sandwiches—including a mighty fine porchetta.

La Prosciutteria di Enzo e Lina even made our “Best Porchetta in Rome List.” What’s more, it was the least expensive sandwich we had in Rome!

So, obviously it made our Cheap Eats Rome List as well!

Address: Nuovo Mercato Comunale di Testaccio, Via Beniamino Franklin, 12/E, 00153 Roma RM, Italy (Stall 89)

24. Flavio al Velavevodetto

Located on the slopes of Monte di Testaccio, Flavio al Velavevodetto is known for the creamiest carbonara in Rome. Having had it, I believe the distinction is absolutely warranted!

Seriously, this is one of the best restaurants in Rome, especially for the price.

Even the meat dishes are budget friendly. There are delicious meatballs, rabbit cacciatore, and lamb skewers among many other options.

I like to eat on the colorful outside terrace. If you prefer inside, opt for the nice room with wood beams that you cannot see from the entrance.  

Address: Via di Monte Testaccio, 97, 00153 Roma RM, Italy

The creamiest carbonara can be found at a very affordable restaurant in Rome, Flavio al Velavevodetto.

Cheap Eats in Rome’s Jewish Ghetto

Some of the most traditional Roman dishes were born in the city’s Jewish Ghetto. And, as it happens, some of the best restaurants in the Jewish Quarter are the best restaurants for cheap eats in Rome.

25. Nonna Betta

Of all of the cheap restaurants Rome offers in the Jewish Quarter, Nonna Betta is my favorite.

It’s the perfect place to skip the first course and the second, and double-down on starters.   You can easily make a cheap meal of zucchini flowers, fried anchovies, mozzarella ’n carozza (Roman grilled cheese), Jewish artichokes, and filetto di baccalà.

If this is not up your alley, the primi and secondi piatti will suffice nicely.

Address: Via del Portico d'Ottavia, 16, 00186 Roma RM

A meal of inexpensive appetizers at Nonna Betta

26. BartarugA

A short walk from the Portico d’Ottavia, there’s a turtle fountain, La Fontana delle Tartarughe. Mash up the word “bar” with the Italian word for turtle (tartaruga) and you get Bartaruga. Not surprisingly, Bartaruga sits right in front of the turtle fountain.

The menus for most of the restaurants in the Jewish neighborhood are pretty similar. If you’re looking for something a little different, try this lively bar by the fountain.

It’s a good place for an aperitivo and a snack with the locals. Bask in the sunshine outdoors during the day, or, later in the evenings, listen to live music inside.

Address: Via dei Funari, 26, 00186 Roma RM, Italy

Cheap Eats in Rome Termini Station and Nearby

A great way to eat cheap in Rome is to visit the food court at Il Mercato Centrale inside the Rome Termini train station.

Take your pick from pizza, pasta, supplì, baccalà, meat skewers, sandwiches, and much more! There’s even a Trapizzino fast food restaurant!

If you rather eat at a sit-down restaurant, choose one of the options below, all just a short walk from the train station. 

27. Ristorante Babbo’s

One of the best things about Babbo’s is that they have a happy hour.

From 4 pm to 6 pm, you can get a Roman pizza and an Aperol Spritz for just €10! If you don’t mind paying a little more, get the salumi and cheese board and a spritz for €15.

My husband and I like to get one each and share it all.

Pro Tip: They don’t advertise it, but if you prefer a Negroni to an Aperol Spritz, they will substitute it.

Address: Via Volturno, 13, 00185 Roma RM, Italy

Happy Hour at Babbo’s is a great way to eat cheap in Rome.

28. 50 Kalò di Ciro

As I’ve said, in Rome, the need for cheap food can often be satisfied with pizza. But 50 Kalò is not your typical pizza joint. It’s helmed by another famous pizza maestro from Naples, Ciro Salvo.

At one of our visits to 50 Kalò, a Roman couple seated next to us proclaimed that the restaurant had the absolute best pizza in the city. That might well be true.

Salvo’s pizzas are made with organic tomatoes, DOP EVOO, DOP cheeses—and the perfect crust. Plus, you can get one for as little as €7!

Try their private label beer too!

It’s a really good idea to make a reservation as there is often a mob outside waiting to get in.

Address: Via Flavia, 3b, 00187 Roma RM, Italy

29. Ciro Purpetta

Whether you order a plate of pasta, a salad, pizza, or calzone, you will receive a delicious good value.

This is not a famous pizza place, but their crusts are just as good as the ones we’ve had at the famous spots. I am addicted to their calzone con scarola (calzone with escarole and olives). The calzones are huge, delicious, cost only €8.50, and can feed two people!

With oodles of tomatoes or prosciutto, either of the mozzarella di bufala starters can also be a meal, but consider sharing them. The huge ball of buffalo mozzarella is way more cheese than one person should eat.

Address: Via Goito, 13, 00185 Roma RM, Italy

Pizza and calzone, a very budget-friendly meal in Rome

Tips to eat cheap in Rome

Make reservations 

Many of the best affordable restaurants in Rome take reservations. Make one if you can.

Visit the Food Markets

Foodies in Rome will want to visit the markets to really experience the food culture. Not only will you get to see the real-deal ingredients of Roman cuisine, but you’ll find some very cheap snacks.