Ristorante Pancrazio: A Delicious Roman Review

For us, Italy is not just a bucket-list destination, it is a second home. With a large family residing in the central regions, I have spent many a summer exploring the sights, sounds and especially the tastes of Italy. After a long hiatus, a family wedding in 2019 provided the perfect excuse to return to my roots, introduce my husband to my Italian family and watch as he tasted all the deliciousness the country has to offer.

Outside Patio of Ristorante Pancrazio, taken at night, in Rome, Italy

On our first night in Rome, we dined with family who introduced us to the traditional dish of Cacio e Pepe pasta. Simple, yet decadent, the creamy Pecorino Romano and pepper sauce is one of Rome’s most ancient recipes, dating back centuries. It quickly became our go-to selection at every Roman restaurant thereafter.

The homemade spaghetti is thick but soft, and coated in a spicy cream sauce that is to die for. As we ate, buskers appeared, singing opera and playing accordion music, it was pure magic.

Dining at Ristorante da Pancrazio was born out of convenience, but quickly became our favourite "hidden" location in Rome. While staying at the boutique hotel, the Pantheon Caesar Relais that overlooked the Largo di Torre Argentina, we researched restaurants in the area and stumbled upon Pancrazio. It’s rustic exterior and simple patio was not uncommon for the Campo dei Fiori area, but what intrigued us was its history.

Ristorante da Pancrazio was built atop the ancient Roman ruins. First opened as a tavern in 1922 by Pancrazio Macchioni, an attempt to expand the premises in the 1950s revealed several rooms from the first century Theatre of Pompeii, where Julius Caesar was murdered.

Interior of Ristorante Pancrazio, ruin room used for dining, Rome, Italy

The history may pull you to visit the first time, but you will return for the romantic atmosphere and especially the food. The restaurant is tucked away from the chaos of the piazza, which makes sitting outside on the patio very pleasant and relaxing. That first visit, we enjoyed a chilled bottle of rosé, a starter with Cacio e Pepe Potato Croquettes then feasted on the best Cacio e Pepe pasta we’ve ever had. The homemade spaghetti is thick but soft, and coated in a spicy cream sauce that is to die for. As we ate, buskers appeared, singing opera and playing accordion music, it was pure magic.