Rome, while famous for its pasta and traditional Roman cuisine, also boasts a thriving seafood scene. With its close proximity to the Mediterranean, Rome offers an array of fresh fish and seafood delicacies prepared in both traditional and innovative ways. Here’s a guide to the best fish restaurants in Rome that every seafood lover should visit.
1. La Rosetta – Centro Storico
Located near the Pantheon, La Rosetta is a renowned fine dining seafood restaurant. Since 1966, Chef Massimo Riccioli has been offering high-quality Mediterranean seafood, focusing on freshness and simplicity. Dishes like raw oysters, spaghetti with sea urchins, and grilled fish are just a few of the menu highlights. The refined ambiance makes it ideal for a sophisticated dining experience.
Signature Dish: Spaghetti with Sea Urchins
Location: Via della Rosetta 8/9, Rome
Website: La Rosetta
2. Assunta Madre – Campo Marzio
Assunta Madre is celebrated for its commitment to using only the freshest seafood, caught daily and displayed in the restaurant for guests to choose from. Located in the chic Campo Marzio area, it offers a variety of raw fish, pasta with seafood, and grilled specialties. The elegant setting and outstanding quality of dishes make this a favorite among locals and celebrities alike.
Signature Dish: Grilled Sea Bass
Location: Via Giulia 14, Rome
Website: Assunta Madre
3. Il Sanlorenzo – Centro Storico
Located near Campo de' Fiori, Il Sanlorenzo prides itself on serving some of the freshest fish in Rome, sourced from the coast of Lazio and Sicily. The restaurant offers a contemporary take on classic seafood dishes, such as tuna tartare, spaghetti alle vongole (with clams), and grilled octopus. The sophisticated and modern decor complements the high-quality seafood served here.
Signature Dish: Tuna Tartare with Citrus
Location: Via dei Chiavari 4, Rome
Website: Il Sanlorenzo
4. Pierluigi – Piazza de’ Ricci
A historic seafood restaurant in Rome, Pierluigi is located in the charming Piazza de’ Ricci. The restaurant is known for its raw seafood platters, fresh lobster, and pasta with clams. With its outdoor seating in a beautiful piazza, Pierluigi offers a quintessential Roman dining experience that’s perfect for a leisurely seafood lunch or a romantic dinner.
Signature Dish: Lobster Linguine
Location: Piazza de’ Ricci 144, Rome
Website: Pierluigi
5. Mamma Angelina – Nomentano
For a more casual seafood experience, Mamma Angelina is a family-run trattoria located in the Nomentano district. Known for its generous portions and home-cooked flavors, the restaurant offers a variety of seafood dishes like fritto misto (mixed fried seafood), grilled fish, and pasta with shellfish. The laid-back atmosphere and affordable prices make it a popular choice for locals.
Signature Dish: Fritto Misto di Mare
Location: Via Arrigo Boito 65, Rome
Website: N/A
6. Tempio di Iside – Aventino
Tempio di Iside is a seafood lover’s paradise, with a focus on raw fish, oysters, and high-end seafood dishes. The restaurant is known for its luxurious ingredients and expertly prepared dishes. The elegant interior and attentive service make it one of the top spots in Rome for those looking to indulge in the best the sea has to offer.
Signature Dish: Raw Seafood Platter
Location: Via Pietro Verri 11, Rome
Website: Tempio di Iside
Conclusion
Rome’s seafood scene offers a delightful variety of dishes that showcase the best of Mediterranean cuisine. Whether you’re enjoying a casual meal at Mamma Angelina or indulging in a luxurious seafood platter at La Rosetta, these top fish restaurants promise an unforgettable dining experience. Be sure to add these spots to your list when exploring the culinary treasures of Rome!
