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The Best Restaurants Near Vatican City and Vatican Museum

Are there any restaurants near Vatican City? This is one of the primary concerns of Vatican visitors. 

Well, to answer this question, we welcome you to our exploration of the delicious culinary world of Vatican City! 

Despite being the smallest sovereign state in the world, Vatican City boasts a unique and fascinating delicious dining scene.

Tourists from all over the world who come here are interested in finding the best restaurants near Vatican City.

In this article, we will take a closer look at different restaurants near Vatican City and will learn about fine dining options within the walls of the Holy See to the humble street food stalls in the surrounding neighborhoods. 

From the sacred halls of the Vatican Museums to the bustling streets of Borgo, there is no shortage of culinary delights to discover in this mighty city-state.

So, whether you are a devout Catholic on a pilgrimage or simply a curious foodie, join us on a journey through the flavors and aromas of Vatican City.

Here, we have listed some of the finest cafes and restaurants near Vatican city that will serve you the most delicious meals you would have ever had.

1. La Pergola

La Pergola
Image: Romecavalieri.com

La Pergola is widely recognized as the epitome of Italian dining and with its delightful flavors has always been the tourist’s favorite.

The fact that La Pergola is a Michelin 3-star restaurant, the only one in Rome is also a reason behind its great popularity.

So, if you are seeking an upscale dining experience for a special occasion, La Pergola is an excellent choice. 

It is recommended that you dress elegantly and bring both a hearty appetite and a well-stocked wallet, as this may be one of the most exceptional meals of your life. 

Although it is the priciest restaurant in the vicinity of the Vatican, it is certainly worth considering for an extraordinary culinary experience.

2. 200 Gradi (Due Cento Gradi)

200 Gradi
Image: Facebook.com/200gradi

If you are in need of a quick lunch after having a tour of the Vatican, look no further than 200 Gradi (Due Cento Gradi). 

Located at Piazza Risorgimento (Risorgimento square), just a few meters away from the station Ottaviano, The Due Cento Gradi is one of the well-known restaurants near Vatican city.

The restaurant had earned itself a big name for mouth-watering paninis (Sandwiches).

Upon entering, you will notice the menu on the left wall, which features a selection of panini made with locally sourced ingredients such as salami, truffle, and ricotta. 

They also cater to non-meat eaters with various healthy vegetarian and vegan options.

3. Pompi Tiramisù 

POMPI
Image: Facebook.com/barpompi.it

For several decades, Pompi has maintained its reputation for producing the finest tiramisu in Rome.

If you find yourself dining nearby, it is recommended that you save some for a slice of famous dessert from Pompi Tiramisù.

Just steps away from Vatican Museum, Pompi is a well-known place among locals as a go-to place for the best tiramisu in the city.

In addition, Pompi is also known for its excellent espresso and cappuccino. 

You can even grab your morning coffee here before heading off to tour the Vatican. 

The only question left to ponder is whether or not you would be willing to devour a serving of tiramisu at 7 am!

4. Mercato Trionfale

Mercato Trionfale
Image: Tripadvisor.com

When discussing dining options near the Vatican Museums and Sistine Chapel, it is impossible not to mention Mercato Trionfale. 

This indoor market boasts a variety of sandwich shops, pizza parlors, and vendors offering local products such as cheese and meats.

Apart from having plenty of food options available, this market also is an interesting place to stroll through.

5. Il Gatto E L’Uva

Il Gatto E L’Uva
Image: Thefork.it

This innovative Italian restaurant located in close proximity to the Vatican is a trendy spot to check out. 

Although it may not be conveniently located for those finishing up a Vatican tour or spending time at the museums, it is worth the trip to enjoy a lovely outdoor lunch or dinner. 

The restaurant offers an array of creatively presented dishes, with a particular focus on seafood. 

If you have grown tired of eating the same dishes repeatedly, a meal at this restaurant is sure to be a refreshing change of pace.

6. La Zanzara

La Zanzara
Image: Facebook.com/LaZanzaraBistrot

Located in Prati district, La Zanzara is one of the most famous restaurants near Vatican city.

Whether you are looking for breakfast, lunch, aperitivo, dinner, or simply cocktails, this chic establishment is undoubtedly one of the finest places to be at.

You can indulge in various delectable dishes, including eggplant parmigiana (served in the traditional Italian style without pasta), various meat selections, delicious homemade pasta, and salads. 

If you happen to be less hungry, consider opting for one of the smaller dishes, also known as “pick-me-ups,” which are an excellent choice to accompany a glass of wine in the afternoon. 

They serve as the perfect appetizer until aperitivo time at 7 pm.

7. Hostaria Dino E Toni

Hostaria Dino E Toni
Image: Tripadvisor.com

Although it may not be immediately noticeable from the street, Dino e Toni is among the finest dining establishments located in close proximity to the Vatican. 

This authentic Roman trattoria offers reasonably priced, traditional Roman cuisine. 

The restaurant is named after its two owners, who have been the closest of friends since childhood, and the ambiance is casual and laid-back. 

With paper tablecloths and carafes of house wine, the comical and amusing service provided by the owners has the feel of a classic Italian film.

8. Il Sorpasso

Il Sorpasso
Image: Sorpasso.info

If you are concluding your Vatican tour at St. Peter’s Basilica, we highly recommend this exceptional eatery, which is my top choice. 

This restaurant offers superb Italian cuisine that is of the same caliber as a high-end dining establishment, complete with impressive creativity and presentation. 

It is an ideal spot to take a break and enjoy lunch, as opposed to the multitude of exorbitantly priced tourist traps in the vicinity.

9. Panificio Bonci

Panificio Bonci
Image: Facebook.com

Considered one of the best pizza joints, and perhaps the top spot for Pizza al Taglio, Panificio Bonci is more of an iconic institution than just a typical pizza place. 

Named after the owner Gabriele Bonci, this eatery is one of the famous restaurants near Vatican City and is worth an innovative and speedy meal following your tour. 

Locals refer to Panificio Bonci as a “panificio” or bread shop, as quality bread is the foundation of excellent pizza. 

If you have time to spare during your sightseeing, this spot is a must-visit, as it is the finest pizza restaurant near Vatican, and possibly in all of Rome.

10. Bar Giulio Cesare

Viale Giulio Cesare
Image: Facebook.com/bargiuliocesare

Bar Giulio Cesare is known for their amazing Cornetto crema di riso, freshly made every hour to ensure warm and scrumptious goodness. 

Bar Giulio Cesare is famous among tourists as one of the finest breakfast restaurants near Vatican city.

If you’re residing near this charming bar, we recommend you have breakfast here at least once and get the taste of a wonderful day.

Conveniently located between the Vatican Museums and Ottaviano metro station, it’s the ideal spot to grab a fast cup of coffee, fresh orange juice, and a takeaway Cornetto crema di riso

You’ll likely spend only around €5 for the entire meal.

Restaurants near Vatican Museum

Restaurants near Vatican City
Image: YouTube

You can’t complete a Vatican tour without visiting the Vatican Museum, also known as the Museum of Museums.

Once inside the museum, you will have a vast area to cover, appreciating the art and architecture, which might get exhausting and make anyone feel hungry.

In order to satisfy your hunger, there are a lot of restaurants in close proximity to the museum serving the delicious flavors of the city.

So, we have listed some of the best restaurants near Vatican Museum, where you can recharge yourself with appetizing meals and snacks.

1. The Caffetteria Centrale

The Caffetteria Centrale, at Vatican museums, is an excellent restaurant nearby for a quick coffee. 

You can start your tour of the Museum with a refreshing coffee at this restaurant and even a leisurely breakfast. 

At lunchtime, the cafe also offers a broad range of sandwiches, pizzas, fruit salads, and desserts. 

  • Best Known For:  Coffee

2. The Caffetteria Il Forno (A break in the heart of museums)

The Caffetteria Il Forno
Image: Visitnorway.com

Need a restorative break during your Vatican visit?

Located at the heart of Vatican museums, The Caffetteria II Forno is one of the best restaurants near Vatican city.

For Visitors leaving the Sistine Chapel, this restaurant is the ideal place to recharge yourself with a cup of creamy Cappuccino or Warm tea.

Being one of the few restaurants near St Peter’s Basilica, The Caffetteria II Forno provides a serene view of the monumental pillars of the Basilica.

  • Best Known For: Cappuccino and Tea

3. The Caffetteria Le Carrozze (A break with a view)

The Caffetteria Le Carrozze
Image: Tripadvisor.com

This is a great place to visit just after you leave the Carriage Pavilion. 

The cafe offers a tasty break alongside the view of the lush green square garden and the imposing Pinacoteca of the Vatican.

  • Best Known For: Coffee, Brioches

4. The Bistrot La Pigna (From dawn till dusk)

The Bistrot La Pigna
Image: Tripadvisor.com

If you are looking for a lunch break, The Bistrot La Pigna is an incredible place for the best lunch near Vatican.

You get to sit in front of the most beautiful location of Vatican museums: the Courtyard of the Pinecone.

Enjoying this beautiful view, you can savor a wide range of delicacies.

  • Best Known For: Italian Culinary

5. The Pizzeria

Pizzeria
Image: Wikipedia.org

This place offers the best pizza near Vatican, from traditional to the most elaborate.

It’s a spacious, airy, and well-furnished Vatican restaurant, serving a range of appetizing pizzas and sandwiches that can be combined with a drink or dessert.

  • Best Known For: Pizza

6. The Self-Service

The Self-Service
Image: Edition.cnn.com

The Self-service, as the name suggests, is an incredible place where you can treat yourself to a delicious lunch and a wide variety of mouth-watering dishes.

Whether it’s traditional Italian cuisine or classic Meat or fish dishes, they have introduced everything in their affordable menu, making it one of the best and most delicious cheap eats near Vatican city.

This wide variety of selections concludes with an exquisite collection of fresh seasonal fruits, yogurt and desserts.

The Self Service also has unique Napoleonic dishware to serve its visitors.

  • Best Known For: Affordable Lunch and great Menu

All these cafes and Restaurants near Vatican City are found in Vatican Museum and are not accessible without a Vatican Ticket.

FAQs

1. Are there places to eat around the Vatican?

Yes, there are a lot of restaurants near Vatican city. Most of them are housed inside the Vatican Museum. 

Restaurants like The Caffetteria Centrale, The Bistrot La Pigna, and The Pizzeria are some of the most famous restaurants in Vatican Museum.

One must have Vatican tickets to access these restaurants, as they are not accessible from outside.

2. What types of food are available at eateries in the Vatican?

There are a variety of cuisines available at Vatican restaurants, including Italian, Mediterranean, and international cuisine. 

Restaurants like The Pizzeria and The Bistrot La Pigna specialize in traditional Italian Culinary and Pizza.

3. Are there any budget-friendly cafeterias or restaurant options available nearby Vatican Museum?

Yes, there are many budget-friendly options for restaurants near the Vatican.

Some of these include Pizzeria, sandwich shops, and The Self Service restaurant inside Vatican Museum, well known for providing the best Lunch at an affordable price.

4. Should I make a reservation at a restaurant near the Vatican in advance?

Not every Restaurants near Vatican City, takes an advance registration.

However, restaurants like Self service offer an option of online reservation.

It is recommended to make a reservation at a restaurant in advance, particularly if you are visiting during peak tourist season.

Many popular restaurants fill up quickly, and a reservation will help you secure your table.

5. What are some popular restaurants near Vatican Museum?

6. What is the famous food of Vatican City?

Pasta is one of the most famous foods of Vatican City.

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Featured Image: MuseiVaticani.com

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