The Nomentano district, also known as Rome’s Quartiere V, is a historic but dynamic area located between the center and eastern suburbs of the city. It takes its name from Via Nomentana, one of the oldest Roman consular roads, which still represents one of the main axes of city traffic.
Originally conceived as a bourgeois residential neighborhood in the early 1900s, Nomentano has maintained an elegant and quiet character, with wide tree-lined streets, Art Nouveau buildings and a few glimpses of rationalist flavor. Villa Torlonia, with its manicured gardens and neoclassical charm, is one of the main points of interest. The Mausoleum of Santa Costanza, a splendid example of early Christian architecture, is also located here.
The presence of universities, such as La Sapienza, and the proximity to the Nomentano station make this Roman neighborhood lively and frequented by students and professionals, and this is also why the main squares, such as Piazza Bologna and Piazza Massa Carrara, are real hubs of urban living, animated by bars, clubs and businesses.
If you’re wondering where to go in the Nomentano area to eat well and spend the right amount, you’re in the perfect place. Here’s where to have breakfast and appetizers in the Nomentano neighborhood, with must-visit places to start (or end) your day at its best.
Where to have breakfast in the Nomentano neighborhood?
In an area like Nomentana, where breakfast is almost a ritual, there is no shortage of historic bars and bakeries that make a difference.
- Il Giglio Bar Pasticceria on Viale Ippocrate 142 is a certainty for those looking for fragrant croissants and tasty recipes. The braid with chocolate and cinnamon cream is a must try, as is the Kinder Bueno croissant. And for those who prefer a savory breakfast, sandwiches and sandwiches are great! Top quality and below-average prices-a rare combination.
- Romoli is a part of the heart of the Nomentano neighborhood. Famous for its freshly filled hot croissants, this historic cornetteria in Rome is a glutton’s paradise. From artisanal pastries to gelato, each product follows Italian regional traditions. Impossible to find space on the weekend? That’s just a sign of its popularity. It is located at 142 Eritrea Ave.
- L’Angolo Bar Cafeteria. If you’re near the hospital or university, this coffee shop is the perfect break. The cappuccino here has an edge: ask for the “drink tiramisu” and you won’t regret it. The sandwiches and stuffed sandwiches are excellent. It is located at 2 Via Giovanni Battista Morgagni.
- Magnifico Caffè in the Piazza Bologna area is one of the most solid landmarks in the Nomentano area. The warm, fluffy cream croissants are prized for their artisanal goodness.
- Momart. In the mood for brunch? On the weekend, Momart is practically a tradition for those living in or passing through the Nomentano neighborhood. For 25 euros (excluding drinks), you sit back, relax and enjoy a rich and colorful buffet, including sweet and savory pies, crudités, tasty entrees and out-of-the-box main courses. It is located at 19 Viale XXI Aprile.
Where to have an aperitif in the Nomentano neighborhood?
When the sun goes down over Rome’s fifth municipality, Nomentano lights up with venues perfect for aperitifs. If you’re wondering where to eat in the Nomentano neighborhood happy hour version, here are the stops worth a visit:
- Feffo’s Bar, at Piazzale delle Provincie 1, may be small in size, but it is definitely big in its offerings: sandwiches, pizzettas, sandwiches and great great aperitif boards. The ambiance is relaxed, with a covered patio for being comfortable outside as well. They have a wide variety of craft beers and sophisticated cocktails.
- Blend is a young and always buzzing place, synonymous in the area with generous aperitifs and creative drinks. The Negroni here is among the best in the neighborhood, while the Lucanian charcuterie boards rule the tables. Service is quick and informal, perfect for an easy but tasteful evening. You’ll find it at 5 Lotario Square.
- Vesper Café Enoteca in Piazza Massa Carrara 5 is a small corner of relaxation in the heart of Nomentano, with a delightful terrace, perfect for balmy evenings. The Negroni comes with mortadella crostini and other delicious Italian tapas. The selection of wines and craft beers is wide and curated, while the staff always manages to put you at ease.
- Abitudini e Follie is located at 28 Via Pavia and is the place to be when you want to indulge in an aperitivo in style but without too much formality. The environment is neat, cozy, and the staff is always friendly and attentive. The aperitivo formula here is a real little journey of flavors: lots of original, well-presented and really tasty samples. The pinsa romana is a must, and the wine selection is wide and well thought out. Perfect for those looking for an apericena that is never dull and a Saturday night that starts off on the right foot (and glass).