Rome is not as renowned for its breakfasts as it is for its pizzas, pasta, and of course, gelato. But have no fear! This doesn’t mean that a traditional breakfast in Rome is not worth having. On the contrary, there are many classic treats that are integral to the experience of starting the day in Rome.
What is a typical breakfast in Rome?
A typical breakfast in Rome is usually a quick affair, enjoyed at either home or a café (al bar). A home-based breakfast often consists of espresso, milk, and a carbohydrate-based food like bread, jam, and butter, biscuits, or galettes. Breakfast al bar, on the other hand, usually consists of coffee, accompanied by a carb-based sweet treat or pastry, like a cornetto, bomba, ciambella, or maritozzo – perhaps the most iconic of the Rome breakfast staples!
But first… caffè!
This gastronomic morning adventure begins with coffee, the essential cornerstone of a Roman breakfast. The diversity of coffee orders at an Italian bar can be staggering. You’ll hear everything from “caffè” to “caffè lungo,” “caffè macchiato,” and variations of milk and coffee mixtures, each person’s order as unique as their fingerprint. But fear not, even if you’re not an expert barista, you can still order an excellent cup of coffee in Rome. Keep these essential terms in mind:
- Caffè: The Italian term for a simple espresso.
- Caffè Macchiato: Espresso with a splash of hot milk.
- Cappuccino: A well-known mixture of espresso, steamed milk, and foam, often enjoyed at breakfast but acceptable at any time.
- Latte Macchiato: A large glass of milk with a shot of espresso.
- Caffè Lungo: Espresso made with slightly more water, but not as diluted as an Americano.
The Art of Ordering Coffee in Rome
To an outsider, ordering coffee in Rome might seem like an intricate task. But once you understand the Italian coffee culture, it’s surprisingly straightforward. You just need to know what to ask for:
- ‘Un caffè, per favore’ – an espresso
- ‘Caffè macchiato’ – espresso with a drop of hot milk
- ‘Caffè lungo’ – espresso with a little extra hot water
- ‘Cappuccino’ – a classic espresso with hot milk and foam. Despite the rumors, there’s no rule against ordering a cappuccino after 11 am.
- ‘Latte macchiato’ – a large glass of milk with a shot of espresso.
- ‘Americano in tazza grande’ – American-style coffee in a large cup.
- Now you’re ready to order coffee like a local in Rome!
Baked delights of a Roman breakfast
Next, we dive into the baked delights of a Roman breakfast. Cornetto, somewhat resembling a croissant, is an integral part of the Roman breakfast. This sweet pastry can be plain (“cornetto semplice”) or filled with cream, chocolate, or jam (“cornetto ripieno”). Over time, the variety of pastries has expanded, offering a plethora of choices, from “saccottini” (resembling pain au chocolat) to “ventagli” and “tortine.”
Special mention must be made of “maritozzo,” a signature Roman breakfast pastry, unique to the city. This bread-like pastry filled with whipped cream can be a heavenly start to your morning. Other delectable sweets include “bomba,” a fried dough filled with cream or jam, and “ciambella,” an unfilled doughnut-like pastry.
If sweet treats are not your thing, there are savory options available too. You might find “tramezzini” (small sandwiches with various fillings) or pizza variations to satiate your appetite. If you crave a full American-style breakfast, you might have to seek out a specialized brunch place for a sit-down meal.
Remember, breakfast in Rome is not just about food and drink—it’s a cultural experience, a way of life. So, whether you’re sipping a freshly brewed espresso at a local Roman bar or recreating an Italian breakfast at home, take the time to enjoy it. Savor each sip, each bite, and appreciate the love and artistry that goes into this simple yet deeply satisfying meal. Enjoy the conversations and the bustling environment, or the quiet moments with your morning read. After all, as the Romans say, “La dolce far niente” – the sweetness of doing nothing.
