Skip to main content
Best Italian Restaurants in Vatican City

Best Italian Restaurants in Vatican City

Curated guide featuring 7 outstanding restaurants, all rated 4.5+ stars

Dining in Vatican City offers a uniquely intimate Italian experience that you simply won't find anywhere else in Rome. Here, tucked away in the shadow of St. Peter's Basilica, family-run trattorias and innovative chefs serve up everything from perfectly al dente pasta to creative street food with a passion that's almost spiritual. The smaller crowds mean you'll actually get to chat with owners who've been perfecting their recipes for generations, while the proximity to one of the world's most sacred sites adds an unforgettable backdrop to every meal.

This guide brings together 10 exceptional Italian restaurants that have earned their stripes through consistently outstanding food and service, each boasting ratings of 4.5 stars or higher. You'll discover everything from La Nuova Piazzetta's crowd-pleasing classics that have won over nearly 44,000 diners to overlooked spots like Scialla The Original Street Food, where innovative takes on traditional Roman bites will surprise and delight you. these carefully selected spots represent the very best of Vatican City's thriving culinary scene.

Featured Restaurants

La Nuova Piazzetta
$$

La Nuova Piazzetta

★★★★☆
4.8
(43,632 reviews)

Tucked away on a charming cobblestone alley near the Colosseum, La Nuova Piazzetta has earned its stellar reputation through consistently excellent food and warm hospitality that keeps both locals and tourists coming back. With nearly 44,000 glowing reviews, this beloved spot clearly delivers on quality across their diverse menu offerings, creating memorable dining experiences in the heart of Rome. Book ahead or arrive early, as this overlooked spot's outstanding reputation means tables fill up quickly, especially during peak tourist season.

Vicolo del Buon Consiglio, 23/a, 00184 Roma RM, Italy
351 940 4029
Pastasciutta
$

Pastasciutta

★★★★☆
4.7
(8,889 reviews)

This beloved Roman gem near Vatican City has won over nearly 9,000 diners with its authentic pasta dishes and warm, welcoming atmosphere that feels like dining in a local's home. Travelers consistently rave about the generous portions, reasonable prices, and genuine Italian hospitality that make it a standout in a tourist-heavy neighborhood. Book ahead or arrive early, as this popular spot fills up quickly with both locals and savvy visitors who've discovered its exceptional value.

Via delle Grazie, 5, 00193 Roma RM, Italy
Museum Restaurant
$

Museum Restaurant

★★★★☆
4.6
(6,467 reviews)

This bustling Museum Restaurant near Vatican City has won over thousands of diners with its diverse menu offerings and welcoming atmosphere, earning an impressive 4.6-star rating from over 6,400 reviews. Travelers consistently praise the quality and variety of cuisines available, making it a reliable choice for groups with different tastes or those seeking comfort food after museum visits. Book ahead during peak tourist season, as this popular spot fills up quickly with both locals and visitors exploring the area.

Via Santamaura, 5, 00192 Roma RM, Italy
Tonnarello San Pietro
$$

Tonnarello San Pietro

★★★★☆
4.8
(4,978 reviews)

This beloved Roman gem near Vatican City has earned an impressive 4.8-star rating from nearly 5,000 diners who rave about its authentic atmosphere and consistently excellent food across various Italian specialties. The overwhelming positive feedback speaks to both the quality of the cuisine and the warm, welcoming service that keeps both locals and tourists coming back. Book ahead or arrive early, as this popular spot fills up quickly, especially during peak dining hours when the cozy interior buzzes with satisfied diners.

Via del Mascherino, 80, 00193 Roma RM, Italy
Borghiciana Pastificio Artigianale
$$

Borghiciana Pastificio Artigianale

★★★★☆
4.7
(4,716 reviews)

This beloved artisanal pasta shop in the charming Borgo Pio neighborhood has won over nearly 5,000 diners with its authentic handmade pasta and welcoming atmosphere just steps from Vatican City. Travelers consistently rave about the quality and freshness that comes from traditional pasta-making techniques, making it a reliable choice for an authentic Roman dining experience. Arrive early during peak tourist season since this local gem's stellar reputation means it fills up quickly, especially with visitors exploring the nearby Vatican.

Borgo Pio, 186, 00193 Roma RM, Italy
Ristorante Arlù
$$

Ristorante Arlù

★★★★☆
4.5
(2,708 reviews)

Nestled in the charming Borgo Pio district just steps from Vatican City, Ristorante Arlù has won over nearly 3,000 diners with its diverse menu and welcoming atmosphere that perfectly captures Roman hospitality. The consistently high ratings speak to both the quality of food and service that keeps locals and tourists returning for memorable meals. Book ahead during peak tourist seasons, as this popular spot fills up quickly with visitors exploring the Vatican area.

Borgo Pio, 135, 00193 Roma RM, Italy
La Locanda di Pietro
$$

La Locanda di Pietro

★★★★☆
4.6
(2,438 reviews)

La Locanda di Pietro has earned a devoted following with over 2,400 glowing reviews, thanks to its warm, welcoming atmosphere and diverse menu that caters to every palate. This beloved neighborhood gem consistently delivers quality dishes at reasonable prices, making it a favorite among both locals and savvy travelers seeking authentic Roman dining without the tourist trap markups. Book ahead or arrive early, as this popular spot fills up quickly with diners who've discovered one of Rome's best-kept culinary secrets.

Via Sebastiano Veniero, 28/c, 00192 Roma RM, Italy

Culinary Experiences in Vatican City

Discover food tours, cooking classes, and unique dining experiences

Plan Your Perfect Trip

Get insider tips and travel guides delivered to your inbox

We respect your privacy. Unsubscribe anytime.

More Vaticancity Travel Guides

Top Attractions → Trip Itineraries → Budget Guide → Where to Stay → Dining Guide → When to Visit →