Where to Eat in Prati, Rome: Best Restaurants, Pizzerias, Brunch Spots
- vitantoniosantoro
- Apr 29
- 14 min read
Looking for the best places to eat in Prati, Rome? This elegant neighborhood, just steps from Vatican City, is one of the top areas for food in Rome—modern Italian dining, traditional Roman pinsa, southern street food, specialty coffee, and more. If you’re hungry near the Vatican, this guide has you covered.
Prati is packed with local favorites and trusted spots where quality comes first. Whether you're in the mood for a gourmet tasting menu, a quick slice of pinsa after sightseeing, or a slow brunch with great coffee, you’ll find it here.
In this guide, you’ll get honest, detailed write-ups on top spots like:
🍽️ Carter Oblio – fine dining with seasonal creativity in a quiet corner of Prati
🍝 Aqualunae Bistrot – inventive Italian plates near Piazza dei Quiriti
🍕 La Pratolina – classic Roman pinsa with crispy crusts and fresh toppings
🥪 Vuliò – authentic Pugliese street food, from panzerotti to focaccia
🍕 Pinsa 'Mpò – fast, affordable Roman pinsa close to Vatican Museums
☕ MAE • Brunch & Specialty Coffee – specialty brews and modern brunch near Via Cola di Rienzo
We break down where to eat in Prati, Rome, what to order, how much you’ll spend, what other diners say, and how to get there. Whether you’re visiting the Vatican for the first time or exploring Prati like a local, this guide will help you skip the tourist traps and eat well.
📍 Best restaurants in Prati Rome 🍝 Modern Italian dining near Vatican City 🍕 Top pizzerias and pinsa spots in Prati 🍷 Casual and affordable places to eat near the Vatican ☕ Best brunch cafes in Prati Rome 💶 Local-approved restaurants close to St. Peter’s Basilica
Bookmark this Prati food guide for your next trip to Rome—and come hungry.
Carter Oblio: Creative Italian Dining in Prati
If you're searching for the best restaurants in Prati Rome or looking for a modern Italian restaurant near Vatican City, Carter Oblio is a top choice. Tucked away on Via Giuseppe Gioachino Belli, just a short walk from St. Peter’s Basilica and Piazza Cavour, Carter Oblio brings a fresh and creative approach to Italian fine dining in Rome.
Led by Chef Ciro Alberto Cucciniello, the kitchen focuses on seasonal ingredients, minimalistic presentation, and flavor-forward combinations. The menu reflects a modern take on traditional Italian recipes, ideal for travelers, locals, and food enthusiasts seeking something beyond the typical trattoria experience.
🍽️ What to Order
The menu at Carter Oblio evolves with the seasons, but some standout dishes include:
Carote Carote Carote: A creative dish showcasing carrots prepared three different ways.
L’Anatra e lo Stagno: Duck paired with fresh garden greens and herbal accents.
Homemade Pasta: Ravioli stuffed with seasonal vegetables or slow-cooked meats, crafted daily in-house.
Tasting Menu: A curated selection of dishes, ideal for first-time visitors wanting the full experience of one of the best gourmet restaurants in Rome.
The wine program features a thoughtful mix of Italian regional wines and European labels, perfectly paired with the evolving flavors of the kitchen.
💰 Price Range
Expect to spend between €50–€80 per person, depending on whether you choose à la carte or the full tasting menu. Carter Oblio offers great value for a fine dining experience in Rome close to major attractions like Vatican City and Castel Sant’Angelo.
⭐ Customer Feedback
Carter Oblio has earned a reputation as one of the top modern Italian restaurants in Prati Rome. Guests often praise its creativity, refined service, and relaxed atmosphere. One reviewer shared, "A modern approach to Italian cuisine without being pretentious. Every dish told a story." Another wrote, "The tasting menu was inventive, comforting, and beautifully presented. Would definitely return."
🕒 Hours
Tuesday–Saturday: 8:00 PM – 11:30 PM
Sunday: 1:00 PM – 3:30 PM; 8:00 PM – 11:30 PM
Monday: Closed
📞 Reservations
Reservations are highly recommended, especially for weekends. 📞 Book through the official Carter Oblio website or call +39 06 4565 4970.
🗺️ How to Get There
📍 Address: Via Giuseppe Gioachino Belli 21, 00193 Rome, Italy
🚇 Metro: Line A to Lepanto or Ottaviano (both are a 7–10 minute walk)
🚌 Bus: Lines 30, 70, 81, or 87
Located in the elegant Prati district, Carter Oblio is easily reachable from major Rome landmarks, making it a perfect choice for anyone exploring Vatican City, Piazza del Popolo, or Castel Sant’Angelo.
Aqualunae Bistrot: Inventive Italian Cuisine in Prati near Vatican City
If you're searching for where to eat in Prati Rome or looking for a modern Italian restaurant near the Vatican, Aqualunae Bistrot should be at the top of your list. Located in Piazza dei Quiriti, a quiet and charming square just a few minutes from Via Cola di Rienzo and St. Peter’s Basilica, Aqualunae offers a creative approach to Italian cuisine while staying connected to tradition.
Founded by Chef Emanuele Paoloni, Aqualunae Bistrot focuses on seasonal ingredients, sourced from top Italian producers and reimagined with global influences. The result is a menu that feels both contemporary and rooted in Italy’s rich culinary heritage — making it one of the best options for fine dining in Rome without the Michelin-star price tag.
🍽️ What to Order
The menu at Aqualunae Bistrot changes regularly, celebrating fresh flavors and creative combinations. Some recent highlights include:
Gamberi Rossi di Mazara del Vallo (€15): Red prawns served with avocado, Bronte pistachio, smoked sauce, Campari jelly, and fresh herbs.
Risotto Carnaroli (€15): Creamy risotto made with blue buffalo cheese, passion fruit reduction, and toasted hazelnuts.
Orecchiette con Ombrina (€15): Homemade pasta with croaker fish, asparagus, spicy chili gel, burnt leek, and lemon.
Pluma di Maialino Iberico (€22): Tender Iberian pork served with sour cream, mussel powder, pumpkin purée, and sage tempura.
For a complete culinary experience, opt for the Smeraldo tasting menu (€69), which offers a curated selection of the kitchen’s best dishes.
The bistro also boasts a well-curated wine list, featuring organic wines, natural wines, and labels from Italy and across Europe, carefully selected to complement the menu.
💰 Price Range
Lunch dishes: €9–€18
Dinner mains: €13–€22
Tasting Menus: €49 (light tasting) or €69 (full experience)
Plan to spend €40–€80 per person for a full meal with wine, depending on your choices.
⭐ Customer Feedback
Regularly rated among the top restaurants near Vatican City, Aqualunae Bistrot receives glowing reviews for its food, service, and atmosphere. Guests highlight the creativity of the dishes and the relaxed but polished service style. One visitor wrote, "An unforgettable experience just steps from the Vatican. Each course was inventive and perfectly balanced." Another noted, "Aqualunae brings fine dining quality without the pretension — a real hidden gem in Prati."
🕒 Opening Hours
Monday–Friday: 12:00 PM – 4:00 PM; 6:30 PM – 11:00 PM
Saturday: 12:00 PM – 4:00 PM; 6:00 PM – 11:30 PM
Sunday: 12:00 PM – 5:00 PM; 6:00 PM – 11:00 PM
📞 Reservations
Reservations are strongly recommended, especially for dinner and weekends. 📞 Call +39 06 3107 6456 or book through the official Aqualunae Bistrot website.
🗺️ How to Get There
📍 Address: Piazza dei Quiriti 19/20, 00192 Rome, Italy
🚇 Metro: Line A to Lepanto or Ottaviano (5-minute walk)
🚌 Bus: Lines 30, 70, 81, or 87
Why Choose Aqualunae Bistrot in Rome’s Prati District?
Whether you're planning a lunch near Vatican City, searching for fine dining restaurants in Prati Rome, or simply want to experience modern Italian food in Rome, Aqualunae Bistrot stands out for its creativity, attention to detail, and excellent value for money.
It’s ideal for food lovers, couples, and travelers looking for an authentic yet innovative dining experience close to Rome’s top attractions.
La Pratolina: Traditional Roman Pinsa and Pizza in Prati Near Vatican City
If you're looking for where to eat in Prati Rome or searching for the best pizza near the Vatican, La Pratolina is a must-visit. Located on Via degli Scipioni, just a short walk from Via Cola di Rienzo and St. Peter’s Basilica, La Pratolina is famous for its pinsa romana — a lighter, crispier alternative to traditional pizza, rooted in ancient Roman recipes.
La Pratolina offers a warm and casual setting where locals and visitors come together to enjoy authentic flavors. With its focus on high-quality ingredients, generous portions, and reasonable prices, it stands out among the best pizzerias in Prati Rome.
🍽️ What to Order
The menu at La Pratolina features a wide variety of pizzas and pinse, made with a special dough that's a mix of wheat, rice, and soy flours — resulting in a lighter, crunchier base. Some of the most popular choices include:
Pinsa Bufalina (€11): Tomato sauce, mozzarella di bufala, fresh basil, and extra virgin olive oil.
Pinsa Quattro Formaggi (€10): A classic mix of four cheeses melted over the signature crispy base.
Pinsa Norcina (€12): Mozzarella, sausage, mushrooms, and truffle oil — a local favorite packed with flavor.
Pinsa Vegetariana (€10): Grilled vegetables layered over mozzarella and tomato sauce.
Aside from pinsa, La Pratolina also offers traditional Roman appetizers like supplì (fried rice balls), fresh salads, and homemade desserts such as tiramisu and panna cotta.
The drink menu includes a small but well-selected list of Italian craft beers, wines, and soft drinks, making it easy to pair your meal.
💰 Price Range
Pinse: €8–€13
Appetizers: €4–€7
Desserts: €5–€6
Plan to spend around €20–€30 per person, including a drink and dessert.
⭐ Customer Feedback
La Pratolina is often ranked among the best places to eat near Vatican City for pizza lovers. Guests appreciate the quality of the ingredients, the lightness of the pinsa dough, and the fast, friendly service. One reviewer said, "The best pinsa I've ever had in Rome. Light, crispy, and full of flavor." Another visitor wrote, "Perfect spot after visiting the Vatican — affordable, delicious, and welcoming."
🕒 Opening Hours
Monday–Friday: 12:30 PM – 3:00 PM; 7:30 PM – 11:30 PM
Saturday: 7:30 PM – 11:30 PM
Sunday: Closed
📞 Reservations
Reservations are recommended, especially in the evening and on weekends. 📞 Call +39 06 3265 0669 to book your table.
🗺️ How to Get There
📍 Address: Via degli Scipioni 248, 00192 Rome, Italy
🚇 Metro: Line A to Lepanto or Ottaviano (both a 5-minute walk)
🚌 Bus: Lines 70, 81, 87, and 490 stop nearby
Located just off one of Rome’s main shopping streets and a short walk from the Vatican, La Pratolina is easy to reach whether you're sightseeing, shopping, or exploring the elegant Prati district.
Why Choose La Pratolina in Rome’s Prati District?
If you're craving authentic Roman pinsa or pizza near Vatican City, La Pratolina offers a perfect blend of tradition, taste, and value.
Whether you're planning a casual lunch after a morning at St. Peter’s Basilica, looking for a family-friendly restaurant in Prati Rome, or simply want to experience one of the best pizzerias in Rome, La Pratolina is a top choice for an unforgettable, satisfying meal.
Vuliò: Authentic Pugliese Street Food in Prati Near Vatican City
If you're looking for where to eat in Prati Rome or searching for authentic street food near the Vatican, Vuliò offers a genuine taste of southern Italy. Located on Via degli Scipioni, a short walk from Piazza del Risorgimento and St. Peter’s Basilica, Vuliò specializes in traditional flavors from Puglia, known for its fresh ingredients, bold tastes, and simple recipes.
Focused on fast, high-quality meals, Vuliò is a top choice for travelers who want a casual bite without sacrificing authenticity. It stands out among the best affordable restaurants near Vatican City.
🍽️ What to Order
The menu at Vuliò centers around Pugliese specialties, served in a simple and quick format:
Panzerotti (€4–€6): Fried or baked turnovers filled with mozzarella, tomato, ham, or seasonal vegetables.
Puccia (€6–€8): Traditional Pugliese bread stuffed with options like burrata, grilled vegetables, salami, or tuna.
Frisella (€5–€7): A crunchy, twice-baked bread topped with tomatoes, olive oil, oregano, and anchovies or mozzarella.
Focaccia Barese (€3–€5): Thick, soft focaccia topped with cherry tomatoes, olives, and extra virgin olive oil.
Vuliò also offers a selection of Apulian wines and craft beers, perfect for pairing with a quick lunch or an early dinner.
💰 Price Range
Street food items: €3–€8
Wine and beer: €4–€6 per glass
You can expect to spend around €10–€18 per person for a complete meal with a drink, making Vuliò a great stop for an affordable lunch or casual dinner in Rome.
⭐ Customer Feedback
Vuliò has earned a strong reputation as one of the top street food spots near Vatican City. Customers often mention the freshness of the ingredients and the friendly service. One diner shared, "Best panzerotto outside Puglia. Crispy, light, and packed with flavor." Another visitor noted, "Perfect stop after visiting the Vatican. Quick, affordable, and full of real Italian taste."
🕒 Opening Hours
Monday–Sunday: 11:30 AM – 10:30 PM
📞 Reservations
No reservations needed for small groups. Walk-ins are welcome. 📞 For large groups or takeaway orders, call +39 392 149 2821.
🗺️ How to Get There
📍 Address: Via degli Scipioni 55, 00192 Rome, Italy
🚇 Metro: Line A to Ottaviano (4-minute walk)
🚌 Bus: Lines 70, 81, 87, 982 nearby
Located near Via Cola di Rienzo and just a few minutes from Vatican Museums and St. Peter’s Square, Vuliò is easily reachable for both tourists and locals.
Why Choose Vuliò in Rome’s Prati District?
If you’re looking for authentic Italian street food near Vatican City, Vuliò offers fast service, traditional flavors, and affordable prices. Whether you need a quick lunch between museum visits, a casual dinner before an evening stroll through Prati, or just want to explore Pugliese cuisine in Rome, Vuliò delivers a real taste of southern Italy in the heart of the city.
Pinsa 'Mpò: Authentic Roman Pinsa in Prati Near Vatican City
If you're searching for where to eat in Prati Rome or looking for the best quick lunch near Vatican City, Pinsa 'Mpò is a top choice. Located on Via dei Gracchi, a short walk from Piazza Risorgimento and St. Peter’s Basilica, Pinsa 'Mpò serves authentic Roman pinsa, a traditional oval-shaped flatbread that predates classic pizza.
Known for its focus on fresh ingredients and fast service, Pinsa 'Mpò stands out among the best casual dining options in Prati Rome, perfect for travelers, students, and locals looking for a light but satisfying meal.
🍽️ What to Order
The menu at Pinsa 'Mpò centers around traditional Roman pinsa, made with a special blend of wheat, soy, and rice flours, fermented for 72 hours to ensure a light and digestible crust. Popular options include:
Pinsa Margherita (€6): Tomato sauce, mozzarella, and fresh basil.
Pinsa Diavola (€7): Tomato sauce, spicy salami, and mozzarella.
Pinsa Vegetariana (€7): Seasonal grilled vegetables with mozzarella and light tomato sauce.
Pinsa Mortadella and Pistachio (€8): Mortadella slices with a sprinkle of crushed pistachios.
You can also customize your pinsa by choosing from a variety of toppings at the counter. Fresh salads, artisanal desserts, and local wines are also available.
💰 Price Range
Pinse: €6–€9
Salads and desserts: €4–€6
Beverages: €2–€5
Expect to spend around €10–€15 per person for a full meal, making it a strong option for an affordable and quick meal near the Vatican.
⭐ Customer Feedback
Pinsa 'Mpò consistently ranks as one of the best places for Roman pinsa near Vatican City. Visitors highlight the lightness of the dough, the balance of flavors, and the speed of service. One reviewer wrote, "The perfect lunch spot after a morning at the Vatican. Quick service, excellent pinsa, good prices." Another noted, "The dough was light and crispy, toppings fresh and generous."
🕒 Opening Hours
Monday–Saturday: 11:30 AM – 10:00 PM
Sunday: Closed
📞 Reservations
No reservations needed. Walk-ins are welcome.
🗺️ How to Get There
📍 Address: Via dei Gracchi 7, 00192 Rome, Italy
🚇 Metro: Line A to Lepanto Station (5-minute walk)
🚌 Bus: Lines 70, 81, 87, or 492
Located near Via Cola di Rienzo and just steps from the Vatican Museums, Pinsa 'Mpò is easy to reach for a casual meal before or after sightseeing.
Why Choose Pinsa 'Mpò in Rome’s Prati District?
If you're looking for a quick, authentic meal near Vatican City, Pinsa 'Mpò offers traditional Roman flavors at reasonable prices. Whether you are visiting the Vatican, shopping along Via Cola di Rienzo, or exploring Prati, this spot is a reliable option for high-quality pinsa served in a simple, efficient setting.
MAE • Brunch & Specialty Coffee: Relaxed Brunch and Artisan Coffee in Prati Near Vatican City
If you're searching for where to eat in Prati Rome or looking for the best brunch near Vatican City, MAE • Brunch & Specialty Coffee is a top spot. Located close to Piazza dei Quiriti and Via Cola di Rienzo, MAE offers a laid-back atmosphere with a strong focus on specialty coffee, fresh pastries, and creative brunch dishes.
Known for its quality ingredients and relaxed setting, MAE stands out among the best cafes and brunch spots in Prati Rome, making it a great choice for travelers, remote workers, and locals.
🍽️ What to Order
MAE’s menu focuses on modern brunch favorites made with seasonal ingredients and local produce. Popular choices include:
Avocado Toast (€9): Served on sourdough bread with avocado, lime, chili flakes, and optional poached egg.
Pancakes (€10): Fluffy American-style pancakes topped with fresh fruit, maple syrup, or homemade chocolate spread.
Eggs Benedict (€12): Poached eggs with hollandaise sauce on a toasted bun, with choices like smoked salmon or crispy bacon.
Granola Bowl (€8): Greek yogurt topped with house-made granola, fresh berries, and a drizzle of honey.
Coffee is a major focus at MAE, with options like V60 pour-over, flat white, cold brew, and a rotating selection of single-origin beans roasted by local Italian and European micro-roasters.
Fresh juices, organic teas, and homemade cakes are also available throughout the day.
💰 Price Range
Brunch plates: €8–€14
Specialty coffee: €2.50–€5
Fresh juices and smoothies: €4–€6
Expect to spend around €15–€25 per person for a full brunch with a coffee or fresh juice.
⭐ Customer Feedback
MAE is often praised as one of the best brunch cafes near Vatican City. Customers highlight the coffee quality, the cozy atmosphere, and the well-prepared dishes. One visitor wrote, "Perfect place for brunch after touring the Vatican. Excellent coffee and fresh, flavorful plates." Another review noted, "One of the few places in Rome where you can get true specialty coffee and a real brunch menu."
🕒 Opening Hours
Monday–Sunday: 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM
📞 Reservations
Reservations are recommended for weekends and public holidays. 📞 Book by calling +39 06 3105 0388 or visit their social media pages for updates.
🗺️ How to Get There
📍 Address: Piazza dei Quiriti 20, 00192 Rome, Italy
🚇 Metro: Line A to Lepanto Station (5-minute walk)
🚌 Bus: Lines 30, 70, 81, or 87 nearby
Located in the heart of Prati, MAE is easy to reach whether you're heading from the Vatican Museums or shopping along Via Cola di Rienzo.
Why Choose MAE • Brunch & Specialty Coffee in Rome’s Prati District?
If you’re looking for a specialty coffee shop near Vatican City or a relaxed brunch restaurant in Prati Rome, MAE offers a high-quality experience without the crowds. Ideal for a leisurely breakfast, a working coffee break, or a post-tour lunch, MAE combines modern flavors with a focus on simple, well-executed dishes and serious coffee craftsmanship.
FAQ: Eating in Prati, Rome
Where are the best restaurants in Prati Rome? Some of the best restaurants in Prati include Carter Oblio for fine dining, Aqualunae Bistrot for modern Italian plates, and La Pratolina for traditional Roman pinsa.
What is the best pizza near Vatican City? For authentic Roman-style pinsa near the Vatican, head to La Pratolina or Pinsa 'Mpò. Both offer light, crispy pinsas made with quality ingredients.
Where can I find affordable food near Vatican Museums? If you're looking for a casual and affordable meal, try Vuliò for southern Italian street food or Pinsa 'Mpò for a quick pinsa lunch.
Where to get brunch near Vatican City? MAE • Brunch & Specialty Coffee is one of the top brunch spots in Prati, offering fresh plates and real specialty coffee just minutes from St. Peter’s Basilica.
Is Prati a good area for food in Rome? Yes, Prati is one of the best neighborhoods for eating in Rome. It's close to Vatican City, less touristy than other areas, and packed with local favorites, quality restaurants, pizzerias, and cafés.
Final Tips for Eating in Prati, Rome
Prati is one of the best neighborhoods in Rome for eating well without straying far from Vatican City. Whether you’re planning a full evening at one of the best restaurants in Prati Rome like Carter Oblio or Aqualunae Bistrot, grabbing a slice of authentic Roman pinsa at La Pratolina or Pinsa 'Mpò, or stopping for a casual street food lunch at Vuliò, this area offers options for every style and budget.
If you’re craving something sweet or need a coffee break after visiting St. Peter’s Basilica, MAE • Brunch & Specialty Coffee is the perfect spot for a real specialty brew and a relaxing meal.
From fine dining experiences to quick and affordable lunches, Prati has it all. You’ll find modern Italian menus, traditional Roman pinsa, authentic Pugliese sandwiches, and some of the best brunch spots near Vatican City all within a short walk of the main attractions.
Use this guide to plan your meals, avoid tourist traps, and discover some of the most reliable and recommended places to eat in Prati. Whether you’re visiting for the first time or looking for new favorites near the Vatican, Prati’s restaurants, pizzerias, and cafés are ready to welcome you.
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