If you think eating gluten-free in Italy sounds impossible, think again. In Rome, it’s not just possible—it’s a pleasure. The city that’s famous for pasta, pizza, and bread has quietly become one of the world’s most welcoming destinations for gluten-free travelers.
Whether you have celiac disease or are simply avoiding gluten for health reasons, Rome makes it easy to enjoy the country’s best flavors without worry. Rome, true to its generous spirit, has found ways to make everyone feel included at the table.
From cozy trattorias near the Pantheon to modern restaurants in Garbatella, gluten-free food isn’t treated as a restriction—it’s treated as good cooking.
Photo-Wikimedia Commons-Quartiere Coppedé, Rome
Italian City for Gluten-Free Food Lovers
Italy takes celiac disease very seriously. The country leads in research and awareness, and even small local restaurants understand the importance of avoiding cross-contamination.
Many kitchens use separate pots, pans, and even utensils for gluten-free dishes. Servers don’t just ask if you’re gluten-free—they already know how to accommodate you safely.
Because of this, travelers with celiac disease or gluten intolerance can dine in Rome with confidence.
Even traditional pasta dishes such as carbonara, amatriciana, and cacio e pepe are served with gluten-free pasta that’s just as good as the regular kind. And it’s not just pasta; you’ll find gluten-free bread, pizza, and desserts almost everywhere you go.
Photo:
Jon Rothstein
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A Taste of the Classics
Start at Armando al Pantheon, one of Rome’s most loved trattorias. You might not expect a place with so much history to be flexible with diets, but Armando’s staff takes special care to make gluten-free diners feel at home.
Try their abbacchio alla romana—roasted lamb that melts in your mouth—or baccalà alla pizzaiola, a cod dish baked with tomato and herbs. These meals are naturally gluten-free and incredibly flavorful.
At Piatto Romano, you’ll find local greens tossed in anchovy dressing, fresh artichokes, and roasted veal breast—all made without gluten.
The vegetables come from small local farms, and the restaurant is proud of its seasonal menu. Even if you skip pasta, you’ll still taste the best of Roman cuisine.
Then there’s Trattoria da Cesare al Casaletto, a local favorite that can prepare almost any pasta dish gluten-free. Their gricia, a cousin of carbonara made with guanciale and pecorino, is rich and satisfying.
You can also try their gluten-free supplì—fried rice balls with mozzarella centers—that are cooked in a separate fryer to prevent contamination.
Photo: pacamah | Wikimedia Commons
https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:A_yummy_tiramisu.jpg
Beyond Pasta and Pizza
Rome doesn’t stop at pasta. You’ll find gluten-free versions of nearly everything, from fried zucchini flowers to creamy tiramisu. At Ristoro degli Angeli in Garbatella, even the desserts are safe for celiacs.
Their gluten-free tiramisu, made with ladyfingers and topped with a touch of sea salt and chocolate, tastes like the real deal.
For sweets, stop by Gelateria Torcè, where everything—from cones to gelato—is gluten-free. Their corn-flour cones are crisp and golden, and the flavors range from Sicilian pistachio to salted peanut.
If you’re in the mood for baked treats, visit New Food Gluten Free or Celiachiamo. Both shops sell pastries, pizza al taglio (square pizza slices), and even fresh bread—all made without gluten.
And yes, even gluten-free pizza lovers are covered. Mama Eat and 3.0 Ciro Cascella both have dedicated ovens to make sure their gluten-free pies stay safe from contamination. The crusts are crisp, chewy, and delicious—proof that good pizza doesn’t depend on wheat.
Photo: Business Traveler
Dining in Style
If you want to experience fine dining, Le Jardin at the Hotel de Russie is a must. The restaurant sits in a peaceful garden near the Piazza del Popolo, surrounded by citrus trees and fountains.
It offers gluten-free bread, seasonal salads, and even gluten-free versions of classic dishes like saltimbocca. The staff understands dietary needs well, so you can relax and focus on the view—and the food.
A few blocks away, Romanè near the Vatican serves gluten-free rigatoni all’amatriciana and fresh artichokes drizzled with olive oil and mint.
After lunch, you can stroll to Bonci, one of Rome’s most famous pizzerias, and maybe just admire the slices from afar. Once you’ve tasted gluten-free pasta this good, you won’t feel like you’re missing out.
Photo:
Benoît Prieur | Wikimedia Commons
https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Risotto_de_gambas,_restaurant_Danieli_(Vienne,_Autriche).jpg
Tips for Gluten-Free Travelers
Rome’s gluten-free culture is supported by the Associazione Italiana Celiachia (AiC), an organization that certifies safe restaurants and even has a mobile app to help travelers find them.
It’s a great resource for visitors who want to explore the city confidently. Always mention your dietary needs when you reserve a table—most places will prepare in advance to make your meal safe and enjoyable.
Bring an Italian translation card explaining your gluten-free requirements, just in case. Though most servers in Rome speak English, it’s always helpful to be clear.
Photo: Alessio Damato | Wikimedia Commons
https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Italian_ice_cream.jpg
Bottom Line
Rome proves that being gluten-free doesn’t mean giving up great food—or adventure. Here, restaurants take pride in making everyone feel included, and gluten-free dining isn’t a compromise—it’s a celebration.
From crispy pizza to creamy gelato, every bite in this city reminds you that the joy of Italian cooking is for everyone.
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Dining and Cooking