The insider’s guide to eating out in Rome

They eat well in the Eternal City: even pizza sold by the slice in open-fronted shops is buonissima. Restaurant prices are higher than they could be, but you can still get good value if you know where to go:  The First Post's top five have been chosen for atmosphere and good value as much as for good food. All have been nominated by people who live and work in the city.

€1 = £0.89 approx.TrattoriaVia del Pozzo delle Cornacchie, 25
Hip haunt serving Sicilian recipes with a modern twist: start with sardine cutlets with cherry tomatoes and mint; follow with Rossini's favourite, Pasta alla Norma  - aubergine, tomatoes, basil and capers.
Three courses for two with wine: €80-100. contact: +39 06 6830 1427   ristorantetrattoria.itMatricianellaVia del Leone, 4
Gingham tablecloths and lots of bustle in this unpretentious trattoria off Piazza San Lorenzo in Lucina. Taste Roman favourites such as Spaghetti alle Vongole Veraci (with clams) and Bucatini all'Amatriciana.
About €70 for two with house wine.  contact: +39 06 6832 100Il Margutta RistorArteVia Margutta, 118
Vegetarian restaurant near the Spanish Steps that's also a stylish exhibition space. Monday to Saturday try the great-value €15 brunch from the tasty buffet (includes soup, puddings and coffee; wine extra). Other menus in the evening.
contact: + 39 06 3265 0577 ilmargutta.itDal BolognesePiazza del Popolo, 1/2
That girl lunching at the next table - isn't she a movie star? Quite possibly, savouring the cuisine of Bologna on one of Rome's most beautiful squares. Menu includes home-made egg pastas.
About €50 per person without wine.  Memorable.
contact: +39 06 3611 426  RecaféPiazza Augusto Imperatore, 36
Need a "real" (ie. Neapolitan) pizza? Modern, airy Recafé offers 24 varieties, none costing more than €10. Mozzarella in carrozza is just one of many other delights on the menu from Naples and surrounding area. Eat outside in summer.  
contact: +39 06 6813 4730 recafe.it
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