7 Best Coffee Bars In Rome
Our Favorite Places to Drink Coffee in Rome
There is a coffee shop (known locally as a bar) on almost every corner in Rome. Such is the Italians’ love of caffeine that they will stop several times a day for a quick fix, and everyone has their favorite spot where they are greeted like an old friend and the barista knows exactly what they like. But even if you are only visiting the Eternal City on vacation you can still immerse yourself in the Italian coffee culture. So whether you fancy a strong, speedy espresso or a relaxing, restorative cappuccino remember that, wherever you are in Rome, you are never far from a bar.
Watch Foodie Sisters in Italy, Benedetta and Valeria, as they explain what good coffee looks like. Learn about the new specialty coffee shops in Italy.
Here is a list of Local Aromas’ favorite coffee bars in Rome.
Sciascia Caffè 1919
Step back in time at this time-honored coffee shop which celebrates its centenary this year. The warm lighting, wood-paneled bar, and old-fashioned decor combine to make it a cozy and welcoming choice in the well-heeled neighborhood of Prati.
Via Fabio Massimo, 80/a (Prati)
Roscioli Caffè
Although perhaps better known for their historic bakery and deli, the Roscioli family expanded their domination over the Campo de’ Fiori area with the opening of their own coffee bar. With carefully made coffee (from their custom-made machine) and amazing cakes and pastries, it’s a brilliant place for the typical Italian breakfast of caffè e cornetto.
Piazza Benedetto Cairoli, 16 (Campo de’ Fiori)
Caffè Vergnano 1882
Established Italian coffee brand Vergnano’s central Roman flagship cafè serves excellent espresso from its super shiny Belle Epoque machine which takes pride of place at the bar. Also on offer are light sandwiches and delicately decorated cakes should you decide to extend your stay to lunch.
Piazzale Flaminio, 5/6 (Flaminio)
Sant’Eustachio il Caffè
While it may be true that Sant’ Eustachio has become a little too famous (and they certainly take their yellow branding to the next level with the number of souvenirs on sale), this historic coffee shop dates all the way back to 1938 and it remains a favorite for their sweet, frothy espresso and specialty coffees.
Piazza Sant’Eustachio 82 (Pantheon)
Pergamino Caffè
You will need plenty of caffeine to get through a day of Vatican sightseeing, so thankfully Pergamino is in the perfect location for some pre-Sistine preparation. One of the city’s first third-wave coffee shops it has great quality, modern options along with the classic coffee types.
Piazza del Risorgimento, 7 (Vatican)
Chiostro del Bramante Caffè
With its beautiful Renaissance courtyard as a backdrop, don’t miss the chance to visit the cafè of the Chiostro del Bramante exhibition space whether or not you are visiting the rest of the complex. Take a table in the gorgeous cloister for a slice of tranquility in the heart of the city, and remember to take a peek at their Raphael fresco before you leave.
Arco della Pace, 5 (Navona)
Panella
Aside from selling fabulous baked goods and offering one of Rome’s most decadent early-evening aperitivo, Panella, in the Esquilino neighborhood, also serves wonderful coffee. Order the espresso and make sure you say yes when they ask if you want cremina; they will add a generous dollop of rich, sweet zabaione into your cup.
Via Merulana, 54 (Esquilino)
Make great Italian espresso coffee in the comfort of your home with the very same moka-pot coffee maker we use every day.
