Tonnarello PoP — Restaurant in Rome

🍝 Classic Roman dinner spot with great food, fair prices, and super kind service – highly recommended!

We actually wanted to go to the well-known Tonarello in the lively, touristy part of the district. As expected, it was packed and no space was left when we asked. The waiter, however, was super friendly and pointed us just a few hundred meters down the road to another Tonarello PoP they run – a bit more peaceful and quiet. We went there instead, and I have to say, we didn’t regret it at all.

The location was actually nicer for us – less tourist foot traffic, still a great Roman vibe. We sat outside, enjoyed the evening, and were well taken care of by very kind and attentive staff. A special shoutout to Felix, who was exceptionally friendly and made us feel really welcome.

The menu is, of course, very classically Italian. I went for the spaghetti carbonara, my wife had a vegetarian salad, and our daughter chose a small lasagna. Everything was tasty, well-prepared, and exactly what you’d hope for. We paired it with drinks – Campari Spritz, Aperol Spritz – all good, all in line with that authentic Italian dinner feel.

Sure, it’s a bit more on the “touristy-commercial” side compared to a hidden local gem, but it really delivers on what it promises: good food, fair prices, nice atmosphere, and friendly service.

All in all, a very enjoyable last dinner for us in Rome – and one I can...

For our first night in Rome, we wanted to enjoy a proper Italian meal, authentic, well-rated, and memorable. We came across Tonnarello, a popular chain with great reviews. The first two locations were packed, but the third had no wait, so we took a table on the terrace and decided to give it a try.

The setting was charming, and our assigned waiter was actually quite friendly.

We had just placed our order and received our drinks when another waiter approached us and asked if we’d mind switching tables. At first, I assumed it was to make space for a larger group, but my friend quickly realized what was really happening: a local couple had requested our outdoor table, and they wanted to move us to a much less desirable spot, right next to several strollers.

Frankly, that request felt completely inappropriate. We were already seated and had ordered. Being asked to move, just to accommodate someone else, didn’t sit right with us. We didn’t feel considered at all, simply because we were tourists.

As for the food, I ordered the carbonara. It wasn’t bad, but it was overly salty and far from exceptional, definitely not worth the hype.

To be fair, our main waiter was fine and did his job well. But overall, the way the situation was handled left a bad taste in our mouths.

With so many great places to eat in Rome, I wouldn’t...

There is no one in front of this restaurant trying to wave you in, which is a good sign. Good restaurants don't need that.

The service was very helpful and knowledgeable. The waiter asked about food allergies which lets you know that the food is freshly prepared. Also, the waiter was able to explain dishes and what pairs with what, which lets you know he's familiar with the menu.

The focaccia bread was amazing. it came out warm with a bottle of olive oil and some salt. The four cheese pinse absolutely delicious with plenty of cheese. The pasta was a traditional Roman pasta with fresh fresh vegetables and just the right amount of sauce.

and of course, the tiramisu was delicious! The cookie was soft and there was plenty of cream around it. thus far, it has been my favorite tiramisu I've had in Rome.

All around this is a great restaurant. however, seating may be hard to come by or you may have to wait. I was able to get immediately seated outside seated. however, shortly thereafter there was a line waiting for seating so plan accordingly.

overall, amazing food, staff, and experience and worth...