Michelin Star Restaurants in Rome
Rome is not only famous for its ancient history and artistic masterpieces but also for its vibrant culinary scene. While traditional Roman dishes such as carbonara and cacio e pepe hold a special place in the city’s gastronomic heart, Rome is also home to a number of Michelin-starred restaurants. These establishments elevate dining to an art form, offering exquisite dishes that merge tradition with innovation. In this guide, we explore some of the best Michelin-starred restaurants in Rome, each of which promises a memorable culinary journey.
1. La Pergola – 3 Michelin Stars
Chef: Heinz Beck
Location: Cavalieri Waldorf Astoria Hotel, Via Alberto Cadlolo, 101
La Pergola is a name synonymous with luxury dining in Rome. It is the only restaurant in the city to have earned three Michelin stars, reflecting its exceptional quality, creativity, and consistency. Situated atop Monte Mario in the luxurious Cavalieri Waldorf Astoria Hotel, La Pergola offers a breathtaking view of the Eternal City.
Highlights:
Chef Heinz Beck’s culinary masterpieces are a blend of traditional Italian flavors and avant-garde techniques. Signature dishes like Fagotelli ‘La Pergola’—a reimagined version of carbonara—exemplify this approach. The restaurant is also renowned for its extensive wine cellar, housing over 60,000 bottles. La Pergola’s emphasis on fine dining is reflected in every detail, from the elegant ambiance to the curated olive oil selection.
What to Order:
- Fagotelli ‘La Pergola’
- John Dory with almonds and juniper berries
- Veal fillet with celery purée and black truffle sauce
2. Il Pagliaccio – 2 Michelin Stars
Chef: Anthony Genovese
Location: Via dei Banchi Vecchi, 129/a
Il Pagliaccio is a two-star Michelin restaurant led by Chef Anthony Genovese, known for his creative and multicultural approach to Italian cuisine. The restaurant’s name translates to “The Clown,” yet there is nothing comical about the artistry on display here. Genovese blends Mediterranean and Asian influences with Italian traditions, creating an intriguing fusion.
Highlights:
Il Pagliaccio offers a sophisticated yet intimate setting, making it perfect for romantic dinners. The tasting menu is where Chef Genovese’s creativity shines, taking diners on a journey through his multicultural culinary perspective.
What to Order:
- Gyoza with white veal, mushrooms, and Parmesan
- Red prawn with aubergine and lime
- Chocolate, salted caramel, and peanuts
3. Imàgo – 1 Michelin Star
Chef: Andrea Antonini
Location: Hotel Hassler, Piazza Trinità dei Monti, 6
Imàgo, located in the iconic Hotel Hassler, boasts one of the most picturesque dining rooms in Rome with panoramic views overlooking the Spanish Steps. Under the direction of Chef Andrea Antonini, the restaurant has earned its place as a must-visit Michelin-starred destination in the city.
Highlights:
Imàgo’s menu is a love letter to Italian cuisine, celebrating Rome’s culinary traditions while incorporating a modern twist. Chef Antonini’s philosophy is to respect the simplicity of Italian dishes while enhancing them with refined techniques.
What to Order:
- Tagliolini with cacio e pepe and raw scampi
- Pigeon with Jerusalem artichoke and black truffle
- Millefoglie with Chantilly cream
4. Enoteca La Torre – 1 Michelin Star
Chef: Domenico Stile
Location: Villa Laetitia, Lungotevere delle Armi, 22
Enoteca La Torre, located in the historic Villa Laetitia, is a one-star Michelin restaurant headed by Chef Domenico Stile. The elegant dining room exudes old-world charm, offering guests a glimpse into the splendor of Roman aristocratic life.
Highlights:
Chef Stile’s cuisine focuses on enhancing the flavors of carefully selected ingredients. The dishes are a refined representation of Italian gastronomy with a modern touch. The restaurant’s extensive wine list is another highlight, featuring a wide range of Italian and international labels.
What to Order:
- Spaghettone with sea urchin and tangerine
- Guinea fowl with figs and balsamic vinegar
- Lemon and white chocolate mousse
5. Glass Hostaria – 1 Michelin Star
Chef: Cristina Bowerman
Location: Vicolo del Cinque, 58
Located in the heart of the Trastevere district, Glass Hostaria is a Michelin-starred restaurant that blends contemporary design with innovative cuisine. Chef Cristina Bowerman, one of the few female chefs in Italy to receive a Michelin star, brings a modern and daring touch to traditional Italian dishes.
Highlights:
The menu at Glass Hostaria is both experimental and elegant, reflecting Bowerman’s eclectic culinary background. The restaurant’s interior design is chic and avant-garde, mirroring the innovative approach of the dishes served.
What to Order:
- Risotto with blueberries, Gorgonzola, and anchovies
- Lamb with coconut and green curry sauce
- Mascarpone cheesecake with passion fruit and chili pepper
6. La Terrazza – 1 Michelin Star
Chef: Fabio Ciervo
Location: Hotel Eden, Via Ludovisi, 49
Perched atop the Hotel Eden, La Terrazza offers not only a star-studded menu but also a stunning view of Rome’s skyline. Chef Fabio Ciervo’s culinary philosophy is rooted in the principles of health, innovation, and taste.
Highlights:
The dishes at La Terrazza are a refined fusion of Italian and Mediterranean influences. Chef Ciervo places a strong emphasis on using high-quality, seasonal ingredients to craft dishes that are both flavorful and health-conscious.
What to Order:
- Paccheri pasta with red prawns and saffron
- Turbot with artichokes and caviar
- Hazelnut and chocolate mousse
Conclusion: A Culinary Wonderland in Rome
Dining at a Michelin-starred restaurant in Rome is not just a meal—it is an experience that engages all your senses. Whether it’s savouring the fusion of Mediterranean and Asian flavors at Il Pagliaccio, enjoying the scenic views at La Pergola, or experiencing the contemporary creativity of Glass Hostaria, each restaurant offers a unique take on Italian gastronomy. These establishments are a testament to Rome’s dynamic culinary landscape, where tradition and innovation meet to create unforgettable dining experiences.
When planning your visit to Rome in Italy, booking a table at one of these Michelin-starred restaurants is a must for anyone looking to explore the city’s luxurious and refined side. Just remember to book well in advance, as these dining establishments are as popular as Rome’s ancient monuments!