Rome, the eternal city is famous for many things, and steeped in history and culture, but one of the things that stands out the most is its coffee culture. Italians take their coffee seriously, and Rome is no exception. Coffee shops, or "bars" as they are commonly referred to, can be found on almost every corner. The city is home to some of the best coffee shops in the world, and tourists and locals alike flock to these establishments to indulge in their daily espresso (and more).
Our article takes you from the rustic charm of Caffè Cecere, renowned for its excellent coffee and friendly staff, to the eclectic bustle of Faro Luminaries of Coffee with their exceptional variety of specialty beans.
How we selected these coffee shops
Our selection process is based on a blend of the tangible and intangible elements that define the perfect coffee shop experience. First and foremost, the quality of their coffee is paramount - because what's a coffee shop without great coffee? Next, we took into account online customer reviews and ratings. Word of mouth, after all, is a powerful tool. Lastly, we considered the atmosphere of each location. Is it suitable for work, casual meetups, or just a quiet, personal retreat? These considerations helped shape our list of top picks.
Caffè Cecere, nestled in the heart of Rome, is known for serving excellent coffee. The beverage scores high among visitors, capturing a significant quality rating. A key highlight is their cappuccino, known for the perfectly frothed milk paired with robust, aromatic coffee. The staff at Caffè Cecere are noted to be friendly and efficient, elevating the overall experience. In addition to serving top-notch coffee, their pastries, particularly the croissants, are also commendable for their freshness and high quality. The welcoming atmosphere of the shop, combined with the good service and delicious offerings makes Caffè Cecere a must-visit spot for coffee lovers in the city.
I Chicchi Di Clelia is an exemplary coffee shop, known for its remarkable coffee and warm atmosphere. Owned by Clelia and Angelo, they've created a space where the coffee speaks for itself. The moment you take a sip, you'll notice the robust flavor, reflecting the care and craftsmanship that flows into every cup. The aromatic scent is a divine precursor to the smooth, rich taste, providing a delightful experience that you'll never forget. Beyond their coffee, I Chicchi Di Clelia radiates a welcoming feeling that completes the overall experience. Each visit to I Chicchi Di Clelia is not just about savoring a cup of coffee, but about enjoying a moment of quiet bliss in the midst of Rome's bustling life.
Faro, a coffee shop in Rome, showcases an exceptional variety of coffee. They offer a range of options for coffee aficionados, including iced coffees and flat whites. Besides the usual brews, Faro favors specialty beans, creating an impressive selection of exquisite choices that can be prepared according to the diner's preference. Their offerings, whether it's a handbrew or an Americano, are all meticulously crafted to deliver top-tier taste.
When it comes to the atmosphere, Faro champions an enticing 'lighthouse' theme which amplifies the charm of the place. The place seems to stay busy, creating a vibrant and lively ambiance that complements its delightful coffees. However, the quality of other offerings like pasta and bread could use improvement and portion sizes have been noted to be on the smaller side.
Nonetheless, it's Faro's passion for coffee that truly shines - providing a destination for those who appreciate high-quality coffee in Rome.
As you take your first step into TreCaffè, you'll be greeted by the enticing aroma of freshly brewed coffee wafting in the air. This charming café, nestled near the splendid Trevi Fountain in Rome, is a coffee connoisseur's delight, offering diverse ways of coffee appreciation to suit different times of the day. The impeccable Espresso bar at the counter offers a quick energy boost, while the Chemex-filtered coffee for a quieter and refreshing interlude emphasizes the passion for the "bean" at this café.
Passion for the customer seeps into every aspect, from the selection of top-notch raw coffee from around the world, to the traditional roasting techniques, and the serving of coffee in their shops. Not only as an energizing drink, but TreCaffè also creatively combines coffee in its natural and tasty cuisine, thus pushing the boundaries of coffee appreciation. Grab a flavorful cappuccino paired with delicious pastries; the graceful presentation and indulgent taste are sure to satisfy every caffeine lover.
Moreover, the homeliness of TreCaffè amplifies the coffee experience. Offering a comfortable setting that is simultaneously modern and dynamic, one can enjoy a quick snack or a leisurely meal infused with coffee. Their creative menu goes beyond the beverage itself, offering a culinary exploration that integrates coffee into meals from breakfast to dinner. TreCaffè stands as a testament to the amazing universe of coffee and invites you to accompany them on this stunning journey.
Sciascia Caffè 1919 offers patrons an authentic Italian coffee experience. Known for its rich and flavorful brews, the coffee is said to be as black as the night, warm as hell and sweet as love, a sentiment echoed by loyal patrons. Their broad range of selections includes classics such as cappuccino, deliciously creative renditions such as coffee with dark chocolate, and unique offerings like gran coffee and crema caffè. An interesting mention is their twist on the classic frappé, which is presented with various intriguing additions like tiramisu and chocolate toppings. And while their coffee is the star of the show, they also offer a Nutella and pistachio stuffed croissant that patrons rave about. Their authenticity, combined with the delightful Italian atmosphere, makes Sciascia Caffè 1919 a perfect spot for those seeking a quintessential coffee experience.
Smoke & Coffee® is a standout coffee shop that specializes in diverse blends with explosive flavors. The shop boasts a plethora of options, like Borbone Coffee which is renowned for offering fresh sensations. Many people appreciate Marco's trust, kindness, and professionalism. This shop also stocks coffee that caters to the needs of coffee lovers who value exceptional aromas and scents, including the Verzi brand. Particularly noteworthy is the Verzi Intenso offering; these compatible capsules for Nespresso machines provide a creamy and velvety coffee experience. Lastly, for Lavazza machine owners, compatible capsules such as Verzi Ricco and Verzi Dek are also on offer. They serve an espresso with intense and romantic aromas, crafted to deliver a high-quality experience.
Tazza d'Oro is a true ode to the rich flavor of coffee. This coffee haven specializes in a variety of exquisite Arabica blends, straight from Central and South America to your cup. One popular option, the Maragogype, a high-altitude selection noted for its large beans and rich flavor, is sure to appeal to even the pickiest of coffee connisseurs. Meanwhile, the coffee shop's American blend speaks to those desiring lighter, American-style roasts.
There's an interesting mix to try in their Jamaica Blue Mountain, a coffee gourmet's dream described as 'gourmet's best'. For decaf enthusiasts, their BioDeka blend is a treat, offering satisfying fullness of flavour in a steam-treated, organic blend.
Additionally, Tazza d'Oro also goes the extra mile with their pastries. Their croissants, for instance, come filled with pistachio. However, it's worth noting that the café's popularity can lead to busy times and a fast pace of service, which might not suit those looking for a leisurely coffee experience. Their coffee still stands out, offering a robust flavor that never fails to impress.
Chef Express is a go-to spot for bar, restaurant, and fast food services in Italy, boasting over 200 outlets. Providing an exclusive experience, its Bistrot location, nestled near the Trevi Fountain in the heart of Rome, boasts an extensive menu that evolves throughout the day.
However, the undisputed highlight at Chef Express is their coffee. Patrons consistently rave about its excellent coffee, which rivals the quality you'd expect from an artisan coffee house. The cappuccino, in particular, seems to be a crowd favorite and is commended for its taste and texture. Beyond the beverages, customers frequently compliment the convivial staff, particularly Doriana, known for adding a positive spin to their day.
Chef Express also lays claim to an in-house bakery, which crafts croissants with a flaky dough made using fresh yeast, filled with a luscious custard infused with Bourbon vanilla. Whether you are craving a flavorful cappuccino or seeking a relaxed atmosphere, Chef Express strikes a balance between quality and tradition, making it a must-visit.
Le Cialdissime is known for its comprehensive selection of top-quality coffee beans, offering a variety of blends to suit every palate. It goes the extra mile, enhancing the basic black drink with subtly pleasant and enjoyable mixtures of aromas. Apart from procuring different forms of coffee packaging for every type of coffee maker, they also provide brand-name coffee machines. More importantly, Le Cialdissime holds a special place for its own blend, widely endorsed for its taste and price. The responsive staff underscores their commitment to service, ensuring a seamless experience for all coffee enthusiasts. Furthermore, Le Cialdissime also incorporates small sweets into their offerings, which perfectly pair with coffee for that final touch of flavour.
Situated in the heart of Rome, Italy, Snug - The Comfort Café is a unique gem in the world of java. This café carries an aura of warmth and palatable delights, expressed through their creatively furnished spaces. They pride themselves on following American traditions, ensuring guests are offered comfort food and drinks that resonate with a hint of familiarity.
Now, let's dive into their pièce de résistance - the coffee. Patrons have expressed great admiration for their American coffee that stands out from the competition. A sip of their brew brings forth a brilliant balance between bold and smooth flavours. Each cup tells a story of carefully selected beans, expertly roasted and brewed to perfection. Complementing their enticing coffee is an array of vegan products resulting in diverse beverages and pastries that are surprisingly delightful.
In addition, Snug - The Comfort Café stands tall in crafting cakes that would instantly gratify anyone with a sweet tooth. Their blueberry muffin, in particular, has been praised for its size and mouth-watering softness. All these factors combined make Snug - The Comfort Café an ideal place for a comforting sip of good coffee and a slice of heavenly sweetness.
Ristorante Da Massi is a charming little coffee spot that serves a memorable espresso. Their baristas are particular about creating the perfect blend and this careful consideration shines through in their coffee. The taste is both robust and smooth, and the espresso is uniquely served with a glass of water to cleanse the palate. The staff are always approachable and quick to serve, further enhancing the overall coffee-drinking experience. The coffee shop, despite its smaller size, exudes a warm and inviting atmosphere that completes the overall experience. A real staple in the neighborhood, the quality of the coffee served at Ristorante Da Massi is always consistent and dependable.
Barnum Café, nestled in the heart of Rome, is notorious among coffee connoisseurs for its exceptional brews. With a variety of specialty coffee from Koppi, Garage Brothers, Gearbox, and Aliena, this spot provides a haven for those seeking a flavorful caffeine infusion. The meticulously calculated roasting techniques, diverse sourcing of beans, and expert baristas all converge to create the perfect cup of coffee. Temperature and texture are aspects they particularly excel in, ensuring your coffee is a delight for your senses from the very first sip. Whether you're seeking an invigorating espresso to start your day, or in need of the comforting, frothy embrace of a cappuccino, Barnum Café has a cup to cater to your coffee cravings. Nestled among this java joy, you'll also find impressive art and delectable breakfast offerings.
Beard Coffee House Rome stands as an oasis in the caffeinated desert that is Europe, serving what many have referred to as the best coffee in the region. Their specialty is, unsurprisingly, international coffee preparation which visitors seem to enjoy. The shop's affordable prices make their unique, quality beverages accessible to everyone, which is quite a treat. Beard Coffee House Rome is also well-known for its intricate latte art, a visual treat on top of the delightful flavor of their brews. This coffee house is definitely worth the visit for any coffee lover in Rome seeking a memorable and quality caffeine fix.
Belsito distinguishes itself with a cozy ambiance and excellent service, but where this café truly shines is its coffee. The cappuccinos are particularly impressive; impeccably brewed, with a satisfying, full-bodied richness that consistently exceeds expectations. This delightful character extends to Belsito's assorted pastries which make for a perfect partner to your cup of joe. The ingredients used at Belsito are fresh and the pastries always deliver a gratifying bite, never skimping on flavor. So, whether you're seeking a usual coffee fix or want to indulge in a more lavish brew, Belsito's coffee offerings definitely cater to both ends of the spectrum. Furthermore, not only does this café provide a wonderful gastronomic experience, it also contributes positively to the whole dining experience. The charming setting coupled with their delicious menu offerings makes every visit to Belsito a uniquely enjoyable experience.
Delving Into Rome's Rich History
- Rome, also known as the Eternal City, is steeped in rich history spanning over 2500 years. It has been the cradle of one of the world's most powerful ancient civilizations, the Roman Empire.
- This captivating city is located in the central region of Italy, with a bustling population of about 2.8 million residents.
- Romans have a deep-seated love affair with coffee, often starting their day with a strong 'espresso' shot, while 'cappuccino' is the popular choice for a leisurely coffee break. It's common to see locals standing at coffee bars enjoying their espresso with gusto.
Top Areas in Rome to Enjoy a Cup of Coffee
- Trastevere, a bohemian neighborhood renowned for its vibrant café culture and nightlife.
- Piazza Navona, a square in Rome, famed for its elegant coffee shops and historic architecture.
- Campo de' Fiori, a bustling marketplace in the morning, transforms into a lively hotspot brimming with cafes in the evening.
- Testaccio, an off-the-beaten-path neighborhood in Rome, is known for its authentic coffee shops serving up traditional Italian coffee.
Why Is Rome Called The Eternal City?
Rome is often called the "Eternal City" for various reasons that touch on its long history and significance. The ancient Romans themselves referred to their city as "eternal" (Latin: "aeterna"). Four main aspects contribute to this title:
- Longevity: Rome has a history that spans more than 2,500 years, making it one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in Europe. It has seen the rise and fall of the Roman Empire and has been the center of Western religion and culture for centuries.
- Historical Significance: Rome has been the seat of power for various essential entities, including the Roman Kingdom, the Roman Republic, the Roman Empire, and later, the Papal States and modern Italy.
- Cultural and Religious Importance: The city is the birthplace of Western civilization and the center of the Catholic Church, being the location of Vatican City, an independent country located entirely within Rome's boundaries.
- Timelessness: The phrase also captures the idea that Rome is a city that is both ancient and ever-changing, with a mix of ruins, Renaissance art, and modern life.
Coffee Shops with Unique Ambiance
When looking for a great coffee shop experience in Rome, it's not just about the quality of the coffee. The ambiance of the shop can make a big difference in the overall experience. Here are three coffee shops in Rome that offer a unique and memorable ambiance.
Antico Caffè Ponte Milvio
Antico Caffè Ponte Milvio is a historic coffee shop that has been around since 1914. The shop is located near the Ponte Milvio bridge, and it has a charming vintage feel. The interior is decorated with antique furniture and artwork, and there is a cozy outdoor seating area. The shop is known for its delicious coffee and pastries, and it's a great place to relax and people-watch.
Barnum Café
Barnum Café is a quirky coffee shop located in the Monti neighborhood. The interior is decorated with vintage circus memorabilia and quirky art pieces. The shop has a fun and lively atmosphere, and it's a great place to meet friends or get some work done. They offer a variety of coffee drinks, as well as pastries and light bites.
Chiostro del Bramante
Chiostro del Bramante is a coffee shop located inside a beautiful Renaissance-era cloister. The interior is decorated with modern art pieces, and there is a lovely outdoor seating area surrounded by greenery. The shop serves a variety of coffee drinks, as well as light bites and pastries. It's a great place to relax and soak up the atmosphere.
Overall, these coffee shops offer unique and memorable experiences that go beyond just great coffee. Whether you're looking for a historic atmosphere, a quirky vibe, or a beautiful setting, these coffee shops are worth checking out.
Wrapping Up Rome's Alluring Coffee Scene
Rome's love for coffee is deeply embedded in its culture, from the bustling local coffee shops that fill every corner of the city to the aromatic coffee beans that flavor the air. Each of these coffee shops offers a unique experience that goes beyond just a cup of coffee. They are meeting points, conversation starters, and part of the daily Roman lifestyle. We encourage you to step off the beaten path, explore these coffee havens in Rome, and find your personal favorite. The Eternal City and its vibrant coffee scene await you.
Author
My coffee journey spans 15 years of diverse experiences. Starting from those first sips, my passion for the industry has grown steadily. I've enjoyed working at a local coffee shop, exploring cultures worldwide, meeting incredible farmers on plantation tours, and helping launch a family member's coffee roasting venture. Throughout this journey, discovering and buying coffee from local roasters to support community businesses has been a pleasure. Through Roast Love, I aim to create content that informs, raises awareness, and helps you, the reader, buy and brew that perfect cup of coffee.