The problem with the square
The restaurants that face directly onto Piazza Navona — or are located in its immediate vicinity — are almost all oriented towards tourist footfall. Prices are high and quality is often mediocre. It is not an absolute rule, but it is the statistical one.
The good news is that 5–10 minutes on foot from the square opens up a neighbourhood — the Parione rione — with a density of trattorias, wine bars and bistros well above average. You just need to know where to go.
Via del Governo Vecchio
This is the most important street for eating well in the area. It is reached on foot from the square in 5 minutes heading west.
- Osteria del Pegno: classic Roman cuisine, authentic atmosphere, mid-range prices. Reservation recommended for dinner.
- Pizzarium Bonci (not on this street, but worth noting): the outpost of celebrated Gabriele Bonci is 15 minutes on foot towards the Vatican; if you are willing to extend the walk, it is among the best pizza al taglio in Rome.
Piazza del Fico
A small square five minutes on foot north-west of Navona. Frequented by Romans, not just tourists.
- Bar del Fico: a historic venue with outdoor tables. Good breakfast and aperitivo; meals are simple but honest.
- Around the square several restaurants serve Lazio and Italian cuisine.
Campo de' Fiori (10 minutes on foot)
The morning market (7:00–14:00) is one of the liveliest in Rome: fruit, vegetables, spices. For lunch, the alleys around the square offer more genuine options than the square itself.
Breakfast and coffee
To avoid the inflated prices of tourist cafés, simply move one block away from the square.
- Bar San Calisto (Trastevere, 20 minutes on foot): a historic Roman bar with local prices.
- Any bar on a secondary street 2–3 minutes from Navona guarantees Roman prices (espresso €1–1.20, pastry €1–1.50).
Gelato
- Gelateria della Palma (Via della Maddalena, 2 minutes): one of the best-stocked in Rome for variety of flavours. Consistent quality.
- Grom (various central locations): a quality chain, selected ingredients, slightly higher prices.
Pizza al taglio
Pizza al taglio in the side streets is often better — and far cheaper — than that served in the piazza's restaurants. Neighbourhood bakeries open at lunchtime and in the afternoon.
What to order in the area
Lazio cuisine near Navona includes:
- Cacio e pepe / Carbonara / Amatriciana: the classics of Roman pasta
- Supplì: fried rice croquettes, local street food
- Fiori di zucca fritti: fried courgette flowers, typical in summer
- Abbacchio: Roman lamb, more common in autumn and spring
With a private driver
Arrive at Piazza Navona with a private driver. From your hotel, airport or station — direct and on time. Service from €49. → Book at myromedriver.com
Frequently asked questions
Is it possible to eat well without spending a lot near Navona? Yes, by moving 5–10 minutes from the square. Prices change noticeably even one block away.
Should restaurants on the square be avoided entirely? Not all of them. Some maintain an acceptable standard despite their location. The advice is to check recent reviews and be wary of menus with laminated photos displayed outside.
Is there a food market nearby? Campo de' Fiori market is 10 minutes on foot and is open in the morning every day except Sunday.
Article n. 148 — TIER S — MON-08 Piazza Navona Type: PRACTICAL Words: ~700