The best bars in Rome, Italy...
Whilst both quality cocktail bars and craft beer houses are a relatively new phenomenon, Rome seems to have not only caught up, but overtaken many of the best bar scenes in the world in a very short time, with a particular fashion for secret speakeasies. Of course, it is still celebrated all over Italy for its enotecas - wine shops which double up as bars, serving wines by the glass alongside local food and cheese.
- Most Rome bars open until 02:00 every day, speakeasies and nightclubs until 04:00
- You should always take your passport or i.d. card with you, as some bars require it for membership or for security purposes, if next to historic buildings (specified below)
- Rome is a large city but can still be explored by foot if you plan your route
- Most Rome bars have Aperitivo offers between 18:00 and 21:00 seven days a week, with unlimited free food when you drink. Unlike Milan, prices of drinks do not increase during this period
- It's sometimes more expensive to sit down at a table than standing at the bar in Rome (normally indicated by "servizo al tavolo"). Sitting outside can cost even more and be prepared to be ripped off by cheeky waiters in touristy bars and restaurants
- When ordering a beer, "una media" is around 0.4 litres
- Most Rome bars accept payment by credit or debit card
- Staff in most Rome bars speak very good English
- Smoking is not allowed in most Rome bars although some may have smoking rooms.
- Generally, the locals tip, if at all, by just leaving loose change. A "coperto" cover charge is usually included in the bill
Best Bars Rome ~ Jerry Thomas Speakeasy
1 ~ JERRY THOMAS SPEAKEASY
This 1920's US Prohibition style speakeasy from bartenders Antonio Parlapiano, Roberto Artusio and Leonardo Leuci is named after the legendary American bartender Jerry Thomas, who wrote "How to Mix Drinks/The Bon Vivant's Companion" back in 1862. One of the most famous bar in the world, membership is required (€5 annual fee), and you'll need to book ahead (by phone only between 14:00 and 18:00), it is accessed through a discreet door at number 30 Vicolo Cellini, a tiny backstreet opposite the Chiesa Nuova church (Santa Maria in Vallicella). You'll be asked to provide the password, which is the answer to a tough alcohol-related question hidden on their website. This was the first bar in Rome to serve world class cocktails, and has since kickstarted a whole movement. They make their own famous gins and liquors (available to buy around the world). An authentic speakeasy, the first of its kind in Italy when it opened in 2009, the concept has been much copied since in Rome. If you gain access, you'll have to obey the rules - cash only, smoking in moderation, no flash photography, no calling friends, no talking about politics or religion, no sleeping on the tables and no vodka. Open 22:00 - 04:00. Closed Sunday and Monday.
Cocktails €10+ Beer (0.5l) €12+ Wine €12+
Best Bars Rome ~ Canova Tadolini / Photo: canovatadolini.com
2 ~ CANOVA TADOLINI
You will struggle to find a more unique bar and restaurant than this whilst in Rome. Located close to the Spanish Steps in the former sculpture's workshop of Antonio Canova and his talented pupil, Adamo Tadolini, it dates back to 1818. In fact, it remained an atelier for generations of sculptors belonging to the Tadolini family until 1967. Today, in the form of a restaurant and cafe bar, the workshop has been lovingly recreated, keeping the original colours and decoration. Dine in one of the 11 rooms amongst thousands of huge statues, which give the atmosphere of the disorderly and dusty atelier; enjoy the sunshine on the outside terrace or stand at the bar and sip on a cold beer, liquor or wine. Alternatively order an espresso or tea to pace yourself for the less touristy cocktail bars on this list.
Cocktails €12+ Beer (0.5l) €9+ Wine €6.50+
Best Bars Rome ~ Stravinskij Bar / Photo: roccofortehotels.com
3 ~ STRAVINSKIJ BAR
After sipping on your coffee at the touristy Canova Tadolini (above), just walk a few doors down Via del Babuino for some of the best drinks in Europe in equally impressive surroundings. The popular bar of the historic 5 Star Hotel De Russie draws an eclectic crowd, which is as perfectly mixed as their range of signature cocktails. The outside piazza is certainly the place to hang out in the Italian capital on warm summer nights and is perfect for people-watching over a leisurely aperitif, with Hollywood stars and A-list celebs rubbing shoulders with tourists and wealthy hotel guests. This plush hotel bar, just off the Piazza del Popolo, stands out for its Internationally award-winning Martinis, spritzes and innovative twists on classics, which are some of the best we have tasted anywhere in Europe, let alone in Rome. There's 14 Champagnes and 12 wines available by the glass, alongside six special Gin & Tonics, healthy drinks and a special cocktail list, which changes regularly. Smart-casual dresscode. No shorts. Open all day, every day until 01:00
Cocktails €20+ Beer (0.5l) €15+ Wine €15+
Best Bar Rome ~ Club Derriere / Photo: Facebook clubderriereroma
4 ~ Club Derrière
OK, in a city that has more secret speakeasy bars than it possibly needs - all kickstarted by the amazing Jerry Thomas Speakeasy (above), it's probably fitting that our second favourite bar in Rome is also a secret 1920s jazz bar, this one hidden in the back room of the Osteria delle Coppelle restaurant. Accessed by a non-descript door at number 59 on the tiny Vicolo delle Coppelle backstreet, near the Pantheon, it's a charming space with knights armour, a windowed bank cashier like bar and toilets hidden behind a bookcase. There's live music and the cocktails come from the talented Patrick Pistolesi (also behind Gin Corner and Cafe Propaganda - both below). There's no passwords, no beer and no pretence to gain access, just be smartly dressed and polite. Open daily 22:00 to 04:00 (02:00 on Sundays).
Cocktails €10+ Wine €10+
Best Bars Rome ~ Salotto42 / Photo: Facebook Salotto42-Roma
5 ~ SALOTTO 42
Possibly the coolest bar in Rome, if the beauty of the other guests doesn't attract you, then the astonishing Temple of Hadrian, which stands towering opposite the front door, certainly should. Previously a book shop bar, it is now a high end cocktail lounge, where the city's rich and famous come to play - although the prices are still some of the most inviting in the city. Books still line the walls in picture frames whilst the cocktails are worthy of note - especially the "Bishop 42"- and can be sipped outside in the square facing the ancient monument, and parked Ferraris and Bentleys. Other branches have since opened in Capri and Copenhagen, where the owner Damiano Mazzarella now lives.
Cocktails €12+ Beer (0.5l) €7+ Wine €7+
Best Bars Rome ~ Hotel Raphael / Photo: raphaelhotel.com
6 ~ LA TERRAZZA HOTEL RAPHAEL
With a magnificent view overlooking the rooftops of the Eternal City, you will not find a more impressive terrace than the one at the beautiful ivy covered 5 Star Hotel Raphael. Featured in Woody Allen's "To Rome With Love" and surrounded by flowers, the view takes in the Pantheon and St Peter’s Basilica amongst most of the city's landmarks. Home to an excellent vegetarian restaurant, it is also possible to visit just for drinks with an extensive martini and wine list. Being so close to the dome of the Santa Maria della Pace, a passport is required at the hotel reception to access the lounge (for security purposes).
Cocktails €16+ Beer (0.5l) €12+ Wine €10+
Best Bars Rome ~ Chorus Cafe / Photo: choruscafe.it
7 ~ Chorus Cafè
This stunning cocktail lounge from legendary Rome barman Massimo D'Addezio can be found on the second floor of the beautiful art deco Auditorium Conciliazione on the road to Basilica San Pietro (St Peter's). With a drinks list inspired by James Bond, the martini's are legendary and the "Uncle's Secret Recipe" Sazerac, incredible - in fact you will struggle to find many better cocktails in town. With huge glass windows, marble floors and pillars this is a more sophisticated affair and the perfect place for a romantic date when in Rome. If you like it here, you should also check out Massimo's other bar, Co.So. in the Pigneto neighbourhood (below).
Cocktails €10+ Beer (0.5l) €6+ Wine not known
Best Bars Rome ~ Enoteca Costantini & Il Simposio / Photo: pierocostantini.it
8 ~ Enoteca Costantini
The seemingly endless, elegant wine cellar at this enoteca on Piazza Cavour is every oenophile's dream. Dating back to 1972, it is an intimate and quiet space decorated with over 4000 bottles, featuring many hard to find vintages of classic Italian and French, alongside a selection of 1000 spirits. In the "Il Simposio" bar and restaurant you will find a modern place to taste the wines, Champagne, and cocktails. It's certainly a place for those who appreciate good drinks and it all results in a classy affair. Closed Sunday
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Best Bars Rome ~ Rivendita Libri Cioccolata & Vino
9 ~ RIVENDITA LIBRI CIOCCOLATA E VINO
They don't come much smaller nor more unique than this beautifully tiny book shop with its chocolate, wine and coffee bar in Rome's Trastevere area. Famed for its huge choice of cheekily-named alcoholic shooters served in edible chocolate shot glasses, which many people buy to take out, it's split over two rooms - one for book readings and another for the chocolate liquors. Open until 02:00 daily, you can expect to queue down the street on busy nights. An absolute must-visit.
Cocktails €2+ Beer (0.5l) Not known Wine Not known
Best Bars Rome ~ Open Baladin Roma
10 ~ OPEN BALADIN ROMA
With over 40 Italian craft beers on draught and over 100 more by bottle, this real ale bar down a tiny backstreet behind the San Carlo Ai Catinari church, is part of a chain from the Baladin craft beer company of Piedmont. For beer lovers, it's simply one of the best in Europe and larger than most venues you will find in Rome. The modern bar itself displays many of the beers available, although there's an informative menu card to help you choose. Also check out the choice of Barley Wines and homemade sodas. Open daily until 02:00
Beer (0.5l) €8.50+ Wine €5+
Best Bars Rome ~ Caffe Della Pace / Photo: Facebook Caffè-della-Pace
11 ~ Caffè della Pace
Dating back to 1891 and open until 02:00 every day, this bustling traditional Rome bar is popular with locals and tourists alike and was featured in Woody Allen's "To Rome With Love". Located in a romantic setting next to the Santa Maria della Pace church, just a stone's throw from the Piazza Navona, and covered in ivy, its outside terrace seating and antique room is popular with Hollywood celebrities. Incredibly, despite its history and popularity, it was threatened with closure in 2014 when the German Catholic foundation which owns the building tried to evict it, to make way for a hotel. For now, it remains.
Cocktails €10+ Beer (0.5l) €9+ Wine €5+
Best Bars Rome ~ Argot / Photo: Facebook associazioneculturaleargot
12 ~ ARGOT
Hidden down a narrow ancient street, this basement speakeasy can be accessed by pressing the doorbell at number 93, on the corner of Via dei Cappellari and Via di Montoro, possibly having to sweet talk the friendly doorman. Open daily from 21:30 until 04:00, it is a beautiful cellar with some of the best cocktails in Rome. The chairs are made from old bicycles and there's live music to keep you entertained. A fantastic place that should be high on ever cocktail connoisseur's hit list. Closed Monday.
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Best Rooftop Bars Rome ~ La Terrasse at Sofitel ~ Photo: Facebook SofitelRomeVillaBorghese
13 ~ LA TERRASSE CUISINE & LOUNGE
Make sure you head to this lounge and terrace on the 7th floor of the 5 Star Sofitel Rome Villa Borghese for the most romantic sunset in the city. With most of the major tourist attractions on view, including the famous Villa Borghese Park directly below, it arguably offers the best view from all the rooftop bars in Rome. The drinks are just as impressive, with signature Italian influenced cocktails from the talented Mirko Cagnazzo including the "Via Lombardia 47", a mix of Cynar, Campari and Agricanto. Head Sommelier Gianfranco Fabiano has compiled a huge wine list too, with many bio options.
Cocktails €15+ Beer (0.5l) €12.50+ Wine €10+
Best Bars Rome ~ Spirito / Photo: Best Bars Europe
14 ~ SPIRITO
This amazing speakeasy in the vibrant Pigneto area of Rome is hidden behind a “Carni Scelte” meat freezer room door inside the popular La Premiata panineria. To be sure of gaining access, you should reserve ahead (here) and then pick up the pay phone on the wall of the sandwich shop. Once inside, you will find some of the best drinks in town served from across a bar shaped like a casino table, complete with roulette wheel and Blackjack; both of which are used on Monday, Wednesday and Thursday to the soundtrack of live jazz (drinks prizes instead of cash winnings). The "Pepper & Fig" cocktail, made with Johnnie Walker, Vermouth Cocchi, Bacon and fig infused Laphroaig and served with popcorn, is worth the trip alone. Seeing as you are in Rome, you should also go for the "Papa Doble". Open until 03:00, the large bar and American style diner, with its separate inside smoking room and roof terrace is incredibly popular.
Cocktails €8+ Beer (0.5l) €7.50+ Wine €6+
Best Bars Rome ~ Enoteca Ferrara / Photo Facebook enotecaferrara
15 ~ ENOTECA FERRARA
Located in a former convent at 41 Piazza Trilussa in the Trastevere district is arguably Rome's best enoteca. Spread over many rooms and levels, this historic building plays home to an amazing wine bar with 28 top quality bottles in the bar room's wine machine, and over 1,300 bottles to choose from in the open cellar, which is below the high-end restaurant. An enoteca wine shop and an Italian artisanal beer bar with six taps make up the other rooms, each also accessible separately from the street, and there's even a pretty garden at the back. Apertivo in the bar room, enoteca and beer bar is from 18:00 - 21:00 daily.
Cocktails €6+ Beer (0.5l) €9+ Wine €7+
Best Bars Rome ~ The Race Club / Photo: Facebook
16 ~ RACE CLUB
Another Rome speakeasy which raced into town in October 2015, thanks to young twentysomething brothers Diego and Dario Ferracani; what this new kid on the block with a passion for motorcycles lacks in experience and prestige, it certainly makes up for in attention to detail, friendliness and lack of pretence. Entering through a motorbike mechanic's workshop at number 52 Via Labicana, just a short walk from the Colosseum, you go down the stairs into a large basement, decorated with vintage motorcycling memorabilia and antique furniture. A TV on the wall broadcasts black and white footage of races from bygone days and the drinks are some of the best, and certainly the most beautifully presented, we have encountered in Rome, made using homemade syrups - try the Jalapina Mule for starters. The craft beer list is huge and they even have their own brew, with only 1000 bottles made annually. Open daily until 02:00 (03:00 when busy), you have to pay €5 and provide i.d. to gain membership on your first visit. No passwords required. Cash only.
Cocktails €8+ Beer (0.5l) €7+
Best Bars Rome ~ The Barber Shop / Photo: Facebook The-Barber-Shop
17 ~ THE BARBER SHOP
Yet another Rome speakeasy, this secret bar from celebrated local barman Joy Napolitano opened in May 2015 and successfully reproduces the 1920s Prohibition feeling with its crackling jazz music and vintage glassware. Open until 05:00, it is popular with other bartenders in town and the late night barflies who know which buzzer to press at number 2 Via Iside, just off Via Labicana, close to the Coliseum and a few doors up from The Race Club (above). The entrance is actually to the right of a mock barber's shop - which apparently was intended to be a functioning hairdresser until the idea was quashed by local health and safety rules. No password is required and the doorman is very friendly, leading you down a somewhat dangerous staircase, steeper than the Spanish Steps, to a green panelled cellar bar, which once functioned as a theatre. The service is excellent and the drinks fantastic; each created using an impressive collection of bottles, homemade syrups and fresh garnishes. No beer and cash only.
Cocktails €10+ Wine €8+
Best Bars Rome ~ Enoteca Del Frate / Photo: Best Bars Europe
18 ~ DEL FRATE
Slightly further out of town in the quieter Prati district, but close to the Ottaviano Metro stop, if you're a wine buff, this upmarket enoteca should be high on your priorities when visiting the Vatican nearby. Opened in 1922 and beautifully decorated with over 3000 bottles, 22 of which are available by the glass, the interior is split into various rooms with a tiny modern wine bar, a popular restaurant and the historic shop, which also stocks rare liquors and spirits. Specialising in cheese and mustards, they have a huge variety with exclusive hard to find products, matched perfectly to the many wines. Open until 01:00, aperitif from 18.30 to 21.00
Beer (0.5l) €6+ Wine €5+
Best Clubs Rome ~ La Cabala / Photo: Facebook CabalaRoma
19 ~ HOSTARIA DELL'ORSO ~ LA CABALA
If you're going to party in Rome, then why not do it inside an ancient building which dates back to 1400. Today, the Hostaria dell'Orso is home to an excellent restaurant, a very popular discothèque (known famously as La Cabala) on the first floor and a fun piano-bar, offering the smartly dressed and largely beautiful locals a chance to sing-a-long to Italian classics. A VIP bar on the rooftop is one of the city's most exclusive locations. €15 entrance including first drink.
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Best Bars Rome ~ CSOA Forte Prenestino / Photo: enotica.net
20 ~ CSOA FORTE PRENESTINO
Similar to Christiania in Copenhagen, this decaying former military fort outside of the city has been occupied and self-managed since 1986 by left wing students, acting as a social centre with a weekend bar, tea rooms, enoteca, workshops, theatre, alternative cinema and live music stages. The Centro Sociale Occupato Autogestito (self-managed occupied social centre), is a unique experience made p of people who fight for an alternative strong anti-fascist, anti-sexist, anti-racist, anti-prohibition world. Think vegetarian restaurants, reggae bars, weekend farmer's markets, language school and a popular wine festival in March. "An illegal place of necessity and by choice."
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Best Bars Rome ~ Ai Tre Scalini / Photo: Facebook aitrescalini
21 ~ Ai TRE SCALINI
Through an ivy covered doorway in the heart of the picturesque Monti district, surrounded by historic churches, you will find this lively bottiglieria (wine tavern), which has been open since 1895. With 300 Italian wines on offer, 20 by the glass, it's always packed with tourists and friendly locals. Traditional cuisine is on offer but it's around the bar where all the action happens. Open daily until 01:00.
Beer (0.5l) €6+ Wine €4.50+
Best Bars Rome ~ Oasi Della Birra
22 ~ OASI DELLA BIRRA
Located in the basement of the Palombi Dal 1917 enoteca on Testaccio's market square, this popular cellar bar offers over 500 different beers. With many Italian microbreweries represented amongst those from the rest of the world, there's also popular outside seating. The wine selection is almost as impressive and it's no surprise this is one of the most popular bars in Rome.
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Best Bars Rome ~ Enoteca Cavour 313
23 ~ CAVOUR 313
This is the perfect wine bar when you're sightseeing around the Colosseum or the Roman Forum. Enter the friendly enoteca, which dates back to 1935, through the door marked "Vini e Liquori" and stand at the bar in the shop or ask for a table in the restaurant, directly underneath bottles of wine. There's over 1,500 to choose from, with many local and organic available "mescita" (by the glass). Aperti-Wine every day from 18:00 - 20:00, open until midnight.
Beer (0.5l) €5.50+ Wine €4+
Best Bars Rome ~ Residenza Paolo Vi / Photo: residenzapaolovi.com
24 ~ TERRAZZA RESIDENZA PAOLO VI
Accessed through a courtyard and up an old elevator to the only hotel inside the Vatican City, this roof terrace bar feels almost like a secret speakeasy for pontiffs, with photographs of various Popes decorating the walls. Offering a distinctive atmosphere of spirituality, thanks to its almost touching distance proximity to the imposing dome of St. Peter’s Basilica, designed by Michelangelo, and its close ties to the Catholic Church, this is a relaxed place in which to enjoy a different form of Holy Water.
Cocktails €10+ Beer (0.5l) €8+ Wine €8+
Best Bars Rome ~ Freni & Frizioni
25 ~ FRENI E FRIZIONI
No night out in Rome would be complete without a visit to the once run down, now fashionable neighborhood of Trastevere. This bar, set in an old garage (it translates to 'brakes and clutches'), is one of the coolest early evening venues in the area thanks to its fantastic vegetarian Aperitivo buffet (every day 19:00 - 22:00) and a huge riverside square, which is perfect to enjoy the cocktails, craft beers, wines and great liquor collection. Popular with hipsters and students, it is open until 02:00.
Cocktails €10+ Beer (0.5l) €7+ Wine €5+
Best Bars Rome ~ Casa Bleve
26 ~ CASA BLEVE
Rome's most elegant wine bar and restaurant, housed in an impressive glass roofed courtyard on the stunning Via del Teatro Valle, is popular with politicians, wine buffs and foodies alike. The Augustan period wine cellars below are without doubt the most beautiful in Rome's historical centre. Husband and wife team Anacleto and Tina Bleve opened this upmarket bar and restaurant in 2003 following the success of their enoteca, La Bottega del Vino which stood in the Ghetto from the 1970s until 2010. Whilst primarily a restaurant, you can still visit just for drinks from the extensive wine and Champagne collection
Cocktails €10+ Beer (0.5l) €9+ Wine €9+
Best Bars Rome ~ Ak Bar / Photo: Facebook Akbar-ArtKooking
27 ~ AKBAR ART & KOOKING
Located in an unmarked building on the corner of Piazza in Piscinula in the vibrant Trastevere neighborhood, this quirky cocktail bar is beautifully decorated with wonky stools and crooked pillars, astroturf grass and swing chairs, an upright piano, statues, flowers and lots of artwork. Live music, DJs and five beers on tap add to the offering. Aperitivo buffet from 17:00. Open daily until 01:30.
Cocktails €8+ Beer (0.5l) €7.50+ Wine €5+
Best Bars Rome ~ Hotel Locarno / Photo: hotellocarno.com
28 ~ HOTEL LOCARNO
Much loved and frequented by celebrities, especially during Apertivio (19:00 - 22:00), the historic lounge bar inside the 4 star Hotel Locarno dates back to 1925. Antique Art Nouveau style furnishings, a fireplace and original decorations take you on a journey back to the Twenties whilst the music, informally dressed staff and creative cocktails offer a modern twist. The premium spirit collection includes many rare bottles, there are 1920's inspired drinks and Head Barman Nicholas "The Fin" Pinna even offers Masterclasses. On warm days you can drink in the delightful internal garden amongst the wisteria, or head to the summer rooftop terrace for great views of Rome.
Cocktails €15+ Beer (0.5l) €15+ Wine €10+
Best Bars Rome ~ Bir and Fud / Photo: birandfud.it
29 ~ BIR & FUD
Across the road from the legendary Ma Che Siete Venuti a Fà (below) in the heart of the vibrant Trastevere neighbourhood, this is their new sister branch, offering an incredible 45 craft beers on tap in larger cellar like premises, with plenty more bottles available. Local brewers are obviously represented alongside small UK, US, and European craft breweries. As well as ale, they also have cider and pizza. Open daily until 02:00.
Beer (0.5l) €6+
Best Bars Rome ~ Ma Che Siete Venuti A Fa / Photo: Facebook MA-CHE-SIETE-VENUTI-A-FA
30 ~ Ma Che Siete Venuti a Fà
This is the bar that kick started the craft ale movement in Rome. Located across the road from its larger and more stylish younger sister, Bir & Fud (below) in the vibrant Trastevere neighbourhood, it's a tiny rough and ready affair, split over two rooms and a cellar, each showing the football, with the crowds spilling out on to the street in front. The main attraction is obviously the beers - other than tap water, that's all they serve - and explains the name, which translates from Roman as "But what did you come here for?". There are 13 on tap, with three more on traditional English beer pumps, and a bottle selection too, each representing local brewers and small family ran breweries from around Europe. If you don't find what you're looking for here, you are invited to head over the road where there's an incredible 45 craft beers on tap. Open daily from 11:00 until 02:00.
Beer (0.5l) €6+
Best Bars Rome ~ Caffe Propaganda / Photo: Facebook caffepropaganda
31 ~ Caffè Propaganda
Although inspired by a Paris metro station and feeling more like a neighbourhood bar in the French capital rather than the Italian, you quickly remember this popular craft cocktail bar is actually in Rome when you notice the impressive Colosseum outside the front door. Serving some of the best drinks in town, from top bartender Patrick Pistolesi - also behind the menus at Club Derriere (above), Madeleine and Gin Corner (both below), the focus here is solely on top quality drinks in a friendly environment, and it's probably no surprise that it's one of the busiest bars in Rome. Beautiful white tiled walls like a Paris Metro Station, of which the cocktail menu is designed around, a zinc and wood bar (made in Paris), antique chandeliers (from the South of France) and a French food menu add Gallic flair. Open until 02:00. Closed Monday.
Cocktails €10+ Beer (0.5l) €5+ Wine €6+
Best Bars Rome ~ Terre E Domus Enoteca Provincia Romana / Photo: Facebook Terre-e-Domus-Enoteca-della-Provincia-di-Roma
32 ~ TERRE E DOMUS
Another one for both the wine buffs wanting to mix drinking with a history tour. Also known as "Enoteca Provincia Romana", this modern wine shop, bar and restaurant from the state backed Provincia Di Roma, is located in the unique setting of Palazzo Valentini, next to Trajan's Column and the Roman Forum (Foro di Traiano), one of the most extraordinary locations to showcase the excellent wines of local producers. All the products, including the mineral water come from the region. Open daily until 00:30.
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Best Bars Rome ~ La Vi / Photo: Best Bars Europe
33 ~ LA.Vi.
"Latteria & Vineria" (dairy & winery) is a large minimalist casual restaurant, chic wine and cocktail bar, bakery, patisserie and pleasant roof terrace, all in one package. Grey concrete walls, decorated with racing bicycles and changing artwork, is contrasted with black and white furniture. It's a really cool and understandably popular venue thanks also to DJs and beautiful cocktails from Mattia de Angelis. Just a short walk down the Spanish Steps from Spagna Metro station, it is open until 02:00 daily.
Cocktails €10+ Beer (0.5l) €10+ Wine €8+
Best Bars Rome ~ Apt Bar / Photo: Best Bars Europe
34 ~ APT
Opened in September 2015, this excellent speakeasy from Apartment Bar barman Alessio Giovannesi (below) and Vincenzo Palermo, can be found in the cellar unit vacated by the beautiful Casa Clementina bar. Bookshelves, Chesterfield sofas, low lighting, DJs and live music provide the perfect place to drink some great creations. No passwords are required and the staff are very friendly.
Cocktails €10+ Beer (0.5l) €7.50+ Wine €5+
35 ~ Co.So. Cocktails & Social
When, back in December 2013, Massimo D'Addezio, Valerio Albrizio and Giorgia Crea left the plush Stravinskij Bar at the 5 Star Hotel De Russie (above) after more than 13 years, to open this tiny high-end cocktail bar in the lively Pigneto neighbourhood, it was a real game changer. In an area famous for its nightlife but not the quality of the drinks, they have continued to push expectations ever since and you will find some of the best drinks in the whole of Italy here. You can buy the furniture you sit on and there's even a private shower room accessed through the toilet. Not to be mistaken for the Coso Wine Restaurant.
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Best Bars Rome ~ Said / Photos: Facebook said1923
36 ~ S.A.I.D. dal 1923
Opened in July 1923 by Aldo De Mauro, this famous chocolate factory is probably in your Rome guidebook's Places To Visit list - and for very good reason. Originally made with the cooperation of a Swiss factory and called "Zurich", fascist xenophobia saw him rename it "Società Anonima Industria Dolciumi" (Anonymous Confectionary Industry Society). Close to the Sapienza University, north of Termini Station, it is open as late as 01:30 and boasts a wonderful choice of flower filled rooms, with a beautiful bar, shop and restaurant. With fascist xenophobia now long gone, they've since opened a restaurant in London too.
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Verano - De Lollis (5 minutes walk)
More information / Map / Directions
Best Bars Rome ~ Baja / Photo: Facebook Baja
37 ~ BAja
Halfway between Pietro Nenni bridge and Regina Margherita bridge, you will find this docked riverboat that houses a lower deck restaurant and an upper deck cocktail bar with great cocktails and wine . Open until 01:00. Closed Mondays.
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Best Bars Rome ~ Il Goccetto
38 ~ Il Goccetto
Every visit to Rome should involve visiting an enoteca; a wine shop and bar rolled into one, this perfect example is a cult favourite amongst wine buffs, dating back to 1983. You'll find it located in a medieval bishop's house, built in 1527, under a hand painted sign which proudly offers "‘Vino e Olio". Inside there's original painted ceilings and tall wooden wine shelves with a choice of over 800 different Italian and French labels, 60 available by the glass. Open until midnight. Closed Sunday.
Beer (0.5l) €6+ Wine €4+
Best Bars Rome ~ The Gin Corner / Photo: hoteladriano.com
39 ~ GIN CORNER
Gin lovers should make the friendly bar at Hotel Adriano their first port of call. The modern bar inside the 17th Century palace, offers over 100 gins, seven from Italy on our visit - including the excellent local creations, VII Hills and Jerry Thomas's Professore A' la Madame. Bartenders Patrick Pistolesi, Federico Tomasselli, Andrea Cardinale and Davide Di Carlo, have created an exceptional gin-based cocktail menu with regular tasting nights - try their take on a Negroni. Open from 18:00 - midnight with aperitif at 18:00.
Cocktails €9+ Beer (0.5l) €9+ Wine €6+
Best Bars Rome ~ Sacripante Gallery / Photo: Facebook sacripantegallery
40 ~ Sacripante Gallery
This homely gallery with a cocktail bar in the back can be found in the picturesque Monti district, just a few doors along from the ivy covered Ai Tre Scalini wine tavern (above). It's a beautiful welcoming place to admire changing art exhibitions whilst sipping an equally pretty cocktail or enjoying a glass of wine on furniture that is all for sale. Open until 02:00. Closed Monday.
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Best Bars Rome ~ R Bar at Hotel Majestic / Photo: hotelmajestic.com
41 ~ R BAR
The bistrot and bar from top chef Massimo Riccioli on the first floor of the plush Hotel Majestic is a lavish affair with a well devised and varied drinks menu from barman Emanuele Broccatelli (also behind 47 Barrato, above). Choose to drink the fantastic cocktails - including an excellent version of the 1960s Rome favourite, Gin & Campari - in the beautiful old bar room or on the huge terrace. You can even take the cocktails home with you in bottles.
Cocktails €15+ Beer (0.5l) €15+ Wine €7+
Best Bars Rome ~ Apartment Bar / Photo: Facebook ApartmentBar
42 ~ Apartment bar
This lively cocktail bar near Rome's huge Sapienza University, serves up live music DJs and artistic drinks. With comfortable sofas, fireplaces and homely decor, there's even a green garden, where you can relax among tropical plants and herbs.
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Best Bars Rome ~ Bar Del Fico / Photo: Facebook bardelfico
43 ~ BAR DEL FICO
Named after the ancient fig tree outside, this hipster hangout near the beautiful Santa Maria della Pace church is very popular with chess players of all ages, together with those filling their boots at the free pizza Aperitivo, which is accompanied by DJs. Decorated like an old Parisian cafe and split over two rooms, with the chess tables outside, the atmosphere is vibrant and the cocktails are great - especially the "Fircy's", a mix of vermouth, rhubarb and orange. In fact, as well as "fig", the word "Fico" in Italian also means "cool" and that is certainly a great way to describe this place.
Cocktails €8+ Beer (0.5l) €6+ Wine €5+
Best Bars Rome ~ Il Piccolo / Photo: Facebook Enoteca-Il-Piccolo
44 ~ IL PICCOLO
This tiny enoteca with its popular terrace on the Via del Governo Vecchio, is a cool place to enjoy organic wines, with a ice selection of single grape Monovitignos and six artisan beers to choose alongside the 24 by the glass options ot hundreds of botles. It's a case of old meets new, with reggae music playing and a Pulp Fiction poster alongside the antique wine racks..
Beer (0.5l) €4+ Wine €4+
Best Clubs Rome ~ Shari Vari Play House / Photo: Facebook ShariVari.it
45 ~ SHARI VARI PLAYHOUSE
This huge multi-roomed club right in the centre of Rome, in the shadow of the Pantheon, is the late night choice of many tourists and well dressed locals. As well as a decent restaurant, the club is a true playhouse with the name coming from "Sharing & Variety", which sums up what's on offer in each room; pop, house and hip hop. Club nights Tuesday - Saturday until 04:00, with live music Sundays.
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Best Bars Rome ~ Madeleine / Photo: Facebook madeleineroma
46 ~ MADELEINE
If it wasn't for the fact that it's slightly out of town and more Belle Epoque style Paris than the Italian capital, then this stunning restaurant, cake shop and bar would certainly be high up the top of our list of best bars in Rome. Located in the Prati district, it is owned by Giancarlo Battafarano - who is also behind the equally popular, equally French inspired, Caffe Propaganda (above) and is another bar in town with a menu devised by Patrick Pistolesi and Frederico Leone, who is also the Ambassador for the beautiful VII Hills gin, which is made in London using Roman botanicals, and one of over 30 on the menu. It appears in many of the excellent cocktails (including the tasty Nouvelle Vague Negroni), alongside craft ales, Bollicine (sparking) wines and excellent aperitivo. Closed Sunday.
Cocktails €10+ Beer (0.5l) €7.50+ Wine €6+
Best Bars Rome ~ Barrato 47
47 ~ BARRATO 47
Walk through the black door at the back of the Urbana47 restaurant and you will find "Strikeout 47", the cocktail bar from legendary Rome bartender Emanuele Broccatelli, (also at R's Bar, above), which opened in December 2015. Despite the hidden entrance, this isn't a speakeasy so don't expect any pretence; it's a friendly intimate room to drink. These are some of the best cocktails in town, also available to takeaway in bottles, and all the wine is natural and biodynamic. Open from 18:00 - 02:00 with live music on Sundays.
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Best Bars Rome ~ The First Luxury Art Hotel Roof Garden / Photo: thefirsthotel.com
48 ~ The First Luxury Art Hotel Roof Garden
Open from May until September, this rooftop bar and restaurant at the luxurious 5 star boutique hotel gives you a unique terrace overlooking Rome's historic centre.
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Best Bars Rome ~ G Bar at G Rough / Photo: g-rough.com
49 ~ G-ROUGH
This tiny stylish wine and cocktail bar inside the G-Rough designer hotel mixes stunning furniture with mirrored copper tiles. It's a beautiful intimate room in which to catch up with friends over a wide choice of niche wines from small Italian producers.
Cocktails €15+ Beer (0.5l) €12+ Wine €8+
Best Bars Rome ~ Il Vinaitto / Photo: Best Bars Europe
50 ~ IL VINAITTO
This very friendly wine bar and shop, alongside the Saint Carlo Ai Catinari church, offers some of the cheapest drinks in Rome. With posters of old 1970s communist leaders and slogans, it's not surprising that it attracts a diverse crowd of old locals, students, and backpackers. There's over 300 bottles to choose from, with 24 available by the glass. Closed in the afternoons and also Sunday.
Beer (0.5l) €2+ Wine €3+
Last updated 25 Feb 2016