Rome Food Tour with Tastings, Local Guide & Lunch

Summary

Sample real Roman pizza gelato & pasta with local stories in Monti

You’ll taste your way through Rome’s Monti neighborhood with a local guide who knows all the best stops — from fresh pizza bianca to handmade pasta and real Roman gelato. Expect laughter, stories behind each dish, and plenty of time to savor lunch and dinner together in good company.

What’s the experience like?

The first thing I remember is the sound of scooters buzzing past as we squeezed into a tiny bakery near Roma Termini. Our guide, Marco, waved us in with this half-smile like he knew what was coming — the smell inside was warm and sweet, almost nutty. I tried to say “buongiorno” but probably sounded like a lost tourist. Marco just grinned and handed me a piece of pizza bianca that was so light it nearly floated off my napkin. I didn’t expect to start with something so simple, but honestly? That first bite set the mood for the whole day.

We wandered through Monti’s cobbled streets, stopping every few minutes for another taste or story. There was this little pasta shop where the owner — older woman with flour on her hands — showed us how she rolls out the dough. She let me try (I made a mess), and everyone laughed when my noodles came out looking more like shoelaces than tagliatelle. The sun kept slipping behind clouds, then popping back out again. At one point I caught the smell of tomato sauce drifting from an open window above us; it mixed with the city’s usual perfume of espresso and old stone.

Lunch was at a trattoria tucked between two faded buildings — not fancy, but full of locals talking fast over plates of carbonara. Marco explained why Roman gelato is different (less air, more flavor), and after dinner he took us to his favorite spot for a scoop. Pistachio for me. It melted too quickly but tasted like actual nuts instead of candy. We talked about football and family traditions until someone realized we’d been walking for hours without noticing.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Monti Food Tour with Tastings

• Join Monti Food Tour
• Roam Rome streets with guide
• Enjoy over 10 food tastings
• Learn about local cuisine
• Receive tips on eating and drinking

Top questions

How many tastings are included on this Rome food tour?

The tour includes more than 10 tastings during the 3-hour walk.

Is lunch provided during the Monti food tour?

Yes, both lunch and dinner are included as part of the experience.

Are alcoholic beverages part of this Rome food tour?

Yes, alcoholic beverages are included along with bottled water.

Is this tour suitable for families with small children?

Yes, infants can join in prams or strollers and must sit on an adult’s lap.

Does the tour include pickup from my hotel?

No hotel pickup is mentioned; public transportation options are nearby Roma Termini.

Are service animals allowed on this food tour?

Yes, service animals are allowed during the experience.

How long does the day trip last?

The food tour lasts approximately 3 hours through Rome’s Monti district.

What’s included

Your day includes more than ten tastings across bakeries and trattorias in Monti, guided by a local expert who shares stories along the way; bottled water and alcoholic drinks are provided throughout, plus both lunch and dinner are covered — all fees and taxes taken care of so you can just enjoy every bite.