Rome is much more than monuments, history, and ruins: it’s a true paradise for students who want to eat (very) well, in charming spots, and on a budget. Between classic trattorias, neighborhood pizzerias, and hidden gems, this guide shares 7 must-visit restaurants to enjoy Roman cuisine for under 20 euros. Take note!

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1. Carlo Menta – A Trastevere classic
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Right in Trastevere, Carlo Menta is one of those places students adore, with pasta dishes and pizzas costing between 7 and 9 euros. Don’t expect luxury: it’s simple, but the food is homemade and authentic—so it’s delicious! And the best part? Sitting on their terrace to watch the comings and goings of the neighborhood while you savor a carbonara for less than 10 euros. A reliable favorite!

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2. Dar Poeta – Legendary pizzas at student-friendly prices
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Also in Trastevere, Dar Poeta is mainly famous for its wood-fired pizzas. Pizzas range from 8 to 9 euros, and the cacio e pepe pizza is especially popular. You can pair it with a bruschetta and still stay under 20 euros, making it the perfect plan for a night out with friends or a break after a day of exploring Rome.

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3. Trapizzino – The Roman sandwich you absolutely have to try
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Imagine a pizza slice stuffed with classic Roman stews. That’s the trapizzino, an invention that fuses the best of pizza and traditional cooking. For 5 euros, you get a triangle stuffed with meatballs, eggplant, or hunter-style chicken. With locations in Trastevere and Testaccio, Trapizzino is perfect for a quick and cheap meal.

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4. Pizzeria Formula 1 – Simple, flavorful eats in San Lorenzo

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In the ultimate university neighborhood, Formula 1 is a favorite spot for students who want tasty food without spending much. Pizzas cost between 5 and 8 euros, are baked in a wood-fired oven, and the place is humble and unpretentious—yet the pizzas are a hit: thin crust, perfectly baked, and no fuss. If you study at La Sapienza, you probably already know it!

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5. Pizzeria I Fiori di Zucca – Tradition and great prices
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Also in San Lorenzo, this pizzeria is an open secret among Erasmus students and locals. Pizzas here range from 8 to 10 euros and are big and, above all, incredibly tasty. The pizza with zucchini flowers (fiori di zucca) is their star dish and worth every euro.

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6. Dar Ciriola – Roman-style sandwiches in Pigneto
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Pigneto is Rome’s hipster neighborhood, and Dar Ciriola is a go-to spot for affordable eats. Their specialty is sandwiches (ciriole) filled with homemade stews like meatballs or chicken with peppers, priced between 5 and 6 euros. The place is open most of the day, so it’s a great option for lunch or dinner on a budget.

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7. Osteria degli Ubertini – A full menu at student prices
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If you want a hearty meal without paying a lot, Osteria degli Ubertini is your spot. This restaurant serves a fixed menu with a primo (pasta), secondo (main dish), water, wine, and coffee for about 12 euros. All homemade and with the genuine taste of Roman cuisine, it’s the perfect plan for when you’re craving more than just pizza and quick pasta. Plus, it’s in the heart of Pigneto, a neighborhood rich in history and life.

Final tips for eating cheaply in Rome

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• Always ask for tap water: it’s free and saves you a bit of cash.

• Daily menus (menù fisso) are a treasure: they often include pasta, meat or fish, drinks, and sometimes dessert at very low prices.

• Pizza al taglio (pizza by the slice) is another budget-friendly option: you buy as much as you want and pay by weight.

• Try street food: supplì (rice croquettes), porchetta panini, and artisanal gelato are part of student life in Rome.
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Rome is a city that, even with a tight budget, lets you taste and enjoy its amazing cuisine and traditions. With this list, you’re set to discover its flavors like a true Roman, without overspending!

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