Tonnarello

If you’ve spent any time researching where to eat in Rome, chances are you’ve come across Tonnarello. Located in the trendy, beautiful Trastevere neighborhood, this spot has so many reviews and is so popular that it’s hard not to go and try it for yourself. One thing to know right away is that Tonnarello does not take reservations, so you might be met with a bit of a wait, especially during peak dinner hours. We opted for a late lunch, which was a great move. It wasn’t too crowded, though plenty of tables were still filled, creating a lively buzz.

The menu is a playbook of classic Roman dishes you’ll want to try, from carbonara and Cacio e Pepe to braised oxtail, saltimbocca, pizza, and so much more. We went in knowing we wanted to finally try Saltimbocca, and we also ordered the bruschetta trio to start. The trio was a nice sampling, with a classic tomato, a prosciutto, and a mozzarella with anchovies version. The bread was perfectly crusty on the outside but still soft. Then came the main event: the Saltimbocca. This is a traditional dish of Rome, featuring thin veal wrapped in prosciutto and sage, then cooked in a white wine sauce. It is unapologetically salty and rich, and Tonnarello serves their version with a side of mashed potatoes. It’s definitely a heavier dish, so keep that in mind. Thankfully, you can walk it off afterward by exploring the stunning Trastevere neighborhood.

So, what’s the final verdict? Honestly, while the food was decent and the atmosphere was vibrant, I probably wouldn’t come back. The experience felt a bit like checking a box. With a city as full of culinary gems as Rome, I just feel like there are better, less touristy places where you can enjoy an even more authentic and memorable meal. It’s worth a try if you’re curious, but I’d encourage exploring some of the quieter side streets too.