Rome Food Tour: Trastevere Aperitivo, Wine & Pasta Dinner

A flavorful evening exploring Trastevere offers a chance to see the neighborhood through the eyes of locals, tasting the best of Roman street food, regional wines, and hearty pasta dishes. This 3.5-hour tour, operated by Devour Tours, combines food, wine, and culture into a lively, authentic experience that’s as much about the ambience as the bites. The high praise from over 100 reviews highlights guides like Giulia and John Paul, who bring a genuine passion for Roman cuisine and make the journey feel like a lively dinner with friends.

What I really appreciate about this experience is the focus on small, quality venues — from legendary supplì shops to family-run osterias — making each stop feel intimate and genuine. The variety of 10+ tastings and 6 drinks means you’ll leave full but not overwhelmed, with a well-rounded taste of Roman food culture. Plus, the mix of informative guides and lively local settings creates a warm, welcoming vibe that feels both fun and educational.

One thing to keep in mind is that this tour is quite alcohol-heavy, with five wine and spritz stops. If you’re not a drinker or travelling with kids, it’s probably best to consider that in your planning. Also, the walk covers some less accessible areas, so comfortable shoes are a must, and those with mobility issues might need to check with the operator. But overall, the balance of food, wine, and cultural insights makes this a fantastic way to spend an evening in Rome.

Key points / Takeaways

Authentic local experience with stops at popular spots favored by Romans rather than tourist traps.
Expert guides like Giulia and John Paul make the tour engaging and insightful, sharing stories and tips along the way.
A full-flavored feast of over 10 tastings, six drinks, and a sit-down pasta dinner—more than just snacks, this feels like a proper evening meal.
Variety of venues from enotecas to family-run osterias, each offering a glimpse into Roman culinary traditions.
Ideal for food lovers wanting more than a surface-level taste, with options for vegetarians, pescatarians, and those with dietary restrictions.
Wine lovers will enjoy regional Italian wines, from prosecco to natural wines, paired with bruschetta and local delicacies.

Exploring Trastevere through Food and Wine

If your idea of Rome involves vibrant street life, charming alleyways, and a never-ending appetite for good food, this tour is an excellent way to connect with all three. While many visitors stick to the classic sights, exploring Trastevere with a guide gives you a different perspective — hearing stories about local traditions while tasting authentic dishes.

The tour begins at Piazza di S. Cosimato, a lively hub filled with locals, setting an immediate tone of neighborhood charm. From there, you launch into a journey that balances tasting and culture, guided by personable experts like Giulia, who is praised for her engaging storytelling and deep knowledge.

A Perfect Start: Enoteca La Vite Roma

The first stop sets the tone for the evening. In this cozy enoteca, you’ll sip crisp Prosecco paired with quality cured meats and cheeses. It’s a classic Roman way to start an evening, and the atmosphere—filled with locals and seasoned connoisseurs—makes it a genuine experience rather than a touristy setup. Reviews highlight the guide’s ability to explain how Romans savor their wine and food, making each sip and bite feel meaningful.

The Iconic Supplì: Street Snack of Rome

Next, a visit to Supplì Roma introduces you to Rome’s favorite street snack — the deep-fried risotto ball filled with gooey mozzarella. The fact that this eatery has been perfecting its craft since 1979 speaks volumes about its quality. Expect to eat these hot and crispy, with a hint of tradition in every bite. Several reviews mention this as a highlight, with one traveler noting that it’s “divine” and a true taste of Roman street food.

Sipping at Bar San Calisto

A visit to this beloved Roman bar offers a chance to relax with a spritz, a quintessential Italian aperitivo. You’ll soak up the lively chatter, see locals playing cards, and learn how Romans pair their drinks with snacks. The relaxed, authentic vibe is what makes this stop special—more than just a drink, it’s an insight into Roman social life.

Natural Wines and Bruschetta at Vanda

The next stop takes you to a wine bar known for its carefully curated natural wines. You’ll taste two regional wines while nibbling on bruschetta—simple but flavorful—learning how these pairings are a staple of Roman dining. Many reviews commend the selection of wines, describing it as vibrant and authentic, with one reviewer noting how the guide’s knowledge helps you appreciate the nuances of each sip.

The Grand Finale: Pasta Dinner and Gelato

The highlight for many is the sit-down dinner at Checco Er Carettiere, a family-run osteria. Here, you’ll savor a traditional Roman pasta dish, such as cacio e pepe or amatriciana, served with more regional wines. This is a real treat—an opportunity to see how locals dine and enjoy their hearty, comforting cuisine. Ending with a scoop of artisan gelato, you’ll find yourself full and satisfied, with a newfound appreciation for Roman flavors.

Price and Overall Value

The tour’s cost reflects its value: a full 3.5-hour experience with over 10 tastings and 6 drinks. Many reviewers, including those who describe guides as knowledgeable and personable, agree it’s well worth the price. The included tastings are generous enough to serve as a main meal, saving you money and time on additional eating. Plus, the opportunity to explore hidden spots favored by locals makes it a smart investment for food lovers wanting an authentic taste of Rome.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is excellent for culinary travelers, those who want to taste a variety of Roman specialties without the guesswork. It’s also well-suited for social travelers who enjoy meeting people from around the world in lively settings. If you’re interested in regional wines and traditional pasta, this tour ticks all those boxes.

However, if you’re not a fan of alcohol or prefer a more relaxed pace, you might find the multiple wine stops a bit much. Also, those with limited mobility should consider accessibility, as some venues aren’t wheelchair-friendly.

Final Thoughts

This tour offers a well-rounded, authentic glimpse into Roman life through its food and wine. It’s more than just a tasting—it’s a lively, cultural experience that shows you how locals enjoy their neighborhoods. Guides like Giulia or John Paul aren’t just knowledgeable—they’re passionate ambassadors of Rome, making each stop memorable.

You’ll leave with a belly full of delicious bites, a few new wine favorites, and perhaps some tips for where to continue exploring on your own. If good food, warm atmosphere, and authentic Roman charm are what you seek, this tour deserves a spot on your Rome itinerary.

FAQs

How long is the tour?
It lasts approximately 3.5 hours, which gives you enough time to enjoy each tasting without feeling rushed.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins at Piazza di S. Cosimato, in front of “Bar Il Siciliano,” and finishes back at the same meeting point.

Are drinks included?
Yes, you’ll enjoy 6 drinks, including prosecco, spritz, and three regional wines, along with tastings at five different venues.

Is the tour suitable for vegetarians or dietary restrictions?
Yes, the tour is adaptable for vegetarians, pescatarians, dairy-free, gluten-free, and pregnant women. It’s not recommended for vegans or those with celiac disease.

Can kids join?
Due to the wine stops and adult focus, it’s not recommended for children or those who don’t drink alcohol.

What should I wear?
Comfortable shoes are essential as it involves walking through Trastevere’s charming streets. Some areas are not wheelchair accessible.

Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, reservations are recommended. You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility if your plans change.

To sum it up, this food tour through Trastevere is a lively, taste-rich introduction to Roman life, perfect for those who want to enjoy genuine local flavors and meet fellow travelers. The guides’ enthusiasm and the variety of stops make it a memorable way to spend an evening soaking up the neighborhood’s vibrant atmosphere. It’s a solid choice for food lovers eager to go beyond the tourist spots and enjoy Rome’s authentic culinary side.