Devour Rome Trastevere/Jewish Ghetto Food Tour Rooftop Aperitivo

Explore the culinary and cultural heart of Rome’s Jewish Ghetto and Trastevere on this Devour Italy Food Tours experience. Priced at $103.34 per person, this 3.5-hour journey combines tastings of nearly a dozen local dishes and drinks with a guided walking tour led by an English-speaking expert. Limited to just 12 guests, it offers an intimate setting perfect for food lovers who want to go beyond the typical Rome tour.

What makes this tour stand out is its focus on family-run eateries and small businesses. You’ll visit seven stops, each offering a distinctive taste of Roman-Jewish cuisine and local culture. The tour concludes with a craft-your-own spritz on a private rooftop in Trastevere, providing stunning views of St. Peter’s Basilica. With a highly positive rating of 5.0 based on 55 reviews, this experience is highly recommended for those eager to experience Rome through its food and neighborhoods.

Key Points

• Authentic Roman-Jewish cuisine at seven small, family-run businesses
• Includes eight tastings and three drinks, all complimentary
• Guided by a knowledgeable English-speaking expert in a small group of 12
• Combines a walking tour of Rome’s Jewish Ghetto and Trastevere neighborhoods
• Ends with a private rooftop aperitivo crafting your own spritz with panoramic city views
• Suitable for various dietary preferences, including vegetarian and vegan options

Starting Point at the Portico of Octavia in the Jewish Ghetto

The tour begins at the Portico of Octavia, located in the Jewish quarter of Rome. Here, your guide introduces the area’s importance in culinary and cultural history. This meeting point is convenient and situated near public transportation, making it easy to access. The initial 15-minute introduction sets the scene for an immersive exploration of the Jewish Ghetto’s influence on Roman cuisine.

The Jewish Quarter has a long-standing reputation as a hub of Jewish culinary traditions, and this tour emphasizes family-run eateries that have preserved authentic recipes for generations. Expect to learn about the neighborhood’s unique role in shaping Roman food culture before tasting begins.

First Stop at Bona | Pizza Roma for Fried Artichokes or Zucchini Flowers

Your first food experience takes place at Bona | Pizza Roma, a modern pizzeria on Corso Vittorio Emanuele. Here, you’ll sample a quintessential Roman-Jewish street food: Jewish-style fried artichokes (when in season) or fried zucchini flowers.

This stop lasts about 20 minutes and showcases how simple ingredients are transformed into delicious regional snacks. The fried artichokes are a beloved staple in the Jewish Ghetto, praised for their crispy exterior and tender interior. The experience offers a taste of local street food culture in a casual setting.

Historic Bakery Boccione and the Jewish Pizza

Next, the tour visits Boccione, a historic kosher bakery with over 200 years of history. In this stop, you’ll try pizza ebraica, a sweet treat that, despite its name, isn’t a pizza but a unique Jewish pastry associated with the neighborhood.

This 20-minute stop highlights the neighborhood’s culinary heritage and the skill of bakers who have kept the tradition alive. The pizza ebraica offers a sweet contrast to savory bites earlier in the tour, deepening the understanding of Jewish influence on Roman desserts.

Fresh Fried Codfish at Dar Filettaro a Santa Barbara

The next stop takes you to Dar Filettaro a Santa Barbara, a well-loved local hole-in-the-wall specializing in freshly fried codfish. After enjoying the crispy, flavorful fish, you’ll wash it down with a glass of wine, experiencing a classic Roman seaside taste.

This 20-minute tasting spot emphasizes quality ingredients and simple preparation, giving an authentic taste of Roman seafood traditions. The relaxed atmosphere complements the culinary focus, making it a highlight for seafood lovers.

Roman Craft Beers and Cheeses at Johnny’s Offlicense

At Johnny’s Offlicense, the tour shifts to local Roman brewing culture. You’ll sample several craft beers, each with its own story and flavor profile, while meeting the friendly owner who offers personal recommendations.

This 45-minute stop pairs the beers with cold cuts and regional cheeses, allowing guests to appreciate the variety of local flavors. It’s an excellent chance to learn about Roman beer-making traditions and enjoy a social, relaxed atmosphere before heading across the river.

Cross into Trastevere for a Trapizzino Sandwich

Crossing the Tiber River into the Trastevere neighborhood, the tour offers a 20-minute tasting of trapizzino, a modern fusion between a sandwich and pizza. This delicious street food combines crispy bread with flavorful fillings, providing a casual yet savory experience.

The stop demonstrates Rome’s evolving food scene and highlights a popular, innovative snack beloved by locals. It’s a perfect palate cleanser after the previous stops and introduces the vibrant Trastevere area.

Sunset Rooftop Spritz Crafting in Trastevere

The tour concludes on a private rooftop in Trastevere, where guests get to craft their own Spritz. With panoramic views of St. Peter’s Basilica and the Rome skyline, this one-hour finale offers a relaxing toast to the day’s culinary journey.

This exclusive experience combines stunning scenery with a hands-on cocktail session led by your guide. It’s a memorable way to celebrate Roman life while enjoying light bites and drinks in a peaceful, elevated setting.

Logistics, Group Size, and Accessibility

This tour begins at the Via del Portico d’Ottavia, a central location easily accessible via public transportation. The group is limited to 12 guests, ensuring a small, intimate experience with personalized attention from the guide. The walking pace is moderate, suitable for most physically able guests, but those with mobility limitations should consider the walking aspects.

The tour is designed to be flexible for dietary restrictions, including options for vegetarians, vegans, lactose intolerant, and those abstaining from alcohol or seafood. However, it is not suitable for guests with gluten intolerance or celiac disease.

What Sets This Tour Apart from Others in Rome

Unlike many general food tours, this experience emphasizes the Jewish Ghetto’s culinary influence and neighborhood history. The combination of small, family-run venues, authentic regional dishes, and craft drinks offers a deep dive into local culture.

The ending rooftop spritz is a distinctive feature, providing a personalized, panoramic conclusion to the tour. The limited group size fosters a relaxed atmosphere where guests can ask questions and interact comfortably. The expert guide’s knowledge and friendly manner are frequently praised in reviews, making this tour both informative and enjoyable.

Final Thoughts on the Devour Rome Food and Neighborhood Tour

This 3.5-hour experience delivers a comprehensive taste of Rome’s Jewish Ghetto and Trastevere neighborhoods through a curated itinerary of authentic dishes and drinks. The small group setting and expert guide ensure a personalized, engaging journey that combines culinary exploration with local history.

The highlight is the culinary diversity, from fried artichokes to Jewish pastries and craft beers, culminating in a rooftop aperitivo with spectacular views. It’s especially suited for foodies and those interested in Rome’s cultural neighborhoods.

While the tour involves walking and moderate physical activity, its intimate size and flexible menu options make it accessible to many. The $103.34 price point offers solid value considering the quality of tastings, drinks, and exclusive rooftop experience.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does the tour last?
The tour lasts approximately 3 hours and 30 minutes.

What is included in the price?
Guests enjoy eight food tastings, three drinks, and a craft-your-own spritz at the end, with a small group of 12 maximum.

Is the tour suitable for vegetarians or vegans?
Yes, the tour can accommodate vegetarian and vegan diets, but it’s best to contact the organizer beforehand to customize options.

Where does the tour begin?
It starts at the Portico of Octavia in Rome’s Jewish Ghetto.

Are there any physical requirements?
The tour involves walking at a moderate pace, so guests should be able to walk comfortably for the duration.

Does the tour include transportation?
No, hotel pick-up or drop-off is not included, but the starting point is centrally located near public transit.

Can I join if I have dietary restrictions?
Yes, the tour is adaptable for various dietary needs, but it’s advisable to notify the organizer in advance.

What makes this tour unique?
The culinary focus on Jewish influence in Roman cuisine, the small group size, and the rooftop spritz finale set it apart.

Is there any flexibility for last-minute booking?
The tour is typically booked 49 days in advance, and full refunds are available if canceled at least 24 hours early.

How do I book this tour?
Reservations can be made through the Viator platform, with firm confirmation and easy access to details.