Here are The Traveling Professor's picks for the best places to eat in Rome.
Target: How can a place with such an un-Italian name be so good? Decorated with a modern flair in cool, clean lines and starch-white tablecloths, the main courses like pork fillet with baked potatoes or sliced beef with rosemary are on the inexpensive side and flavorful. Oh, I forgot to mention the pastas - try the Amatriciana or Carbonara - you'll love them both. And listen to me - the orichetti with zucchini and cherry tomatoes is music to your ears. Wines are reasonably priced and you will walk out of here without dropping a load of euros.
Forno Campo di Fiori: You'll get arguments left and right on where to find the best pizza in Rome. For me, it's Il Forno. First of all, it is authentic because the pizza is made in a bakery - where good Italian pizza should be made. The elongated pizzas are set out in display cases. Mushroom, vegatable and other cheesy choices are tempting. Point and pick out what looks good. They cut and weight it for you. Step outside, watch the market action while chomping down on this delicious pizza.
Ristorante del Giglio: Located next to the opera house, the food and service will have you singing for joy. White jacketed waiters with pencil thin moustaches take care of all your dining needs. Wood paneling and white tablecloths set the tone. Wait, is that Gina Lollabrigida that just walked in? For starters, try the green or red lasagna Giglio style and move on to the great seafood dishes like swordfish with zucchini or sliced fresh tuna with rosemary. This is another joint that will let you load up on carbs and protein without dumping a lot of euros.
Mercato Centrale Roma: We discovered this relatively new dining spot on our last small group tour to Italy. It follows the setup of the newer trend of several food vendors located under one roof, this time it is at the Roma Termini train station. There is no other place in Rome to get the variety and quality of food all under one roof. From artisinal pizza to the absolute best tartuffo and even sushi, there is something good for everyone. There are burgers, there is ramen, there is bread, cheese, and wine. What else do you want? Trust me, there is more, even something for our vegetarian friends.
By the way, a great little guide book for a directory not only of the best restaurants in Italy, but how to translate what's in Italian to English, check out my friend Andy Herbach's "Eating and Drinking in Italy"