Atmosphere and Experience (4/5):
Arriving without a reservation on a weekday at 1:30 PM and waiting 30 minutes for a table inside demonstrates the restaurant's popularity, especially for its charming and immersive atmosphere. Choosing the indoor area, described as more beautiful, seems to have been worthwhile, contributing to an authentic and pleasant experience. The only point to consider is the wait, which, although understandable given the prestige of the place (open since 1870), can be a small inconvenience for those seeking speed.
Service (5/5):
The waiter Sebastian was a highlight, with service described as excellent, friendly, and relaxed. This warm and professional approach elevates the experience, especially in a traditional restaurant like La Matriciana, where hospitality is essential to reflect Roman authenticity.
Food (5/5):
The dishes ordered – rigatoni alla matriciana and spaghetti with anchovies – were described as very tasty and well-prepared, which is a great indication of the quality of the cuisine. The matriciana, a typical Roman dish, seems to have met expectations, and the spaghetti with anchovies was also a success. The bread basket and the complimentary portion of olives add a welcoming touch and reinforce the restaurant's generosity.
Value for Money (4.5/5):
The prices were considered good, especially for the quality of the food and the overall experience. The expression "worth the view" suggests that the interior ambiance and the overall experience justify the price paid. There is no mention of exorbitant prices, which is positive for a historic restaurant in the heart of Rome.
Overall Impression (4.5/5):
La Matriciana offers an authentic and memorable gastronomic experience, with high-quality food, exceptional service, and an atmosphere that reflects Roman tradition since 1870. The 30-minute wait is a minor inconvenience, but it doesn't seem to have compromised the experience. The combination of well-executed dishes, complimentary bread and olives, and a charismatic waiter like Sebastian makes the restaurant an excellent choice for those seeking immersion in Roman cuisine and culture. Recommendation:
Definitely recommended for anyone visiting Rome and wanting to experience traditional dishes in a historic setting. Making a reservation can help avoid waiting, especially for those who prefer the indoor area. Perfect for lunches or dinners that combine good food with a welcoming atmosphere and first-class service.
cadu dutra
.
01 Novembre 2025
10,0
So, so delicious! We specifically went to try Roman dishes, and thoroughly enjoyed all of them: cacio e pepe, carbonara, veal saltimbocca, oxtail, fried artichoke, chicory, and the tiramisu! Good to note, though, is that we lined up outside shortly before opening on a Thursday night and barely got a table (people after us were waiting ~45 to be seated), so reservations are recommended.
Sydney Hancock
.
30 Ottobre 2025
10,0
A very nice place, frequented not only by tourists but also by locals, which, in my opinion, is always a guarantee of quality food. I had the amatriciana and it was delicious. The waiters were friendly and the price was reasonable.
Francesca Beccalli
.
29 Ottobre 2025
6,0
Typical Roman osteria.
High prices but excellent quality dishes.
Mara Pietrobon
.
28 Ottobre 2025
10,0
Crossing the threshold of La Matriciana is a true journey into the real Rome of the 1960s. The atmosphere is authentic and original, the staff are friendly, and the menu is super authentic, almost old-fashioned, but the real deal. No trendy dishes, just traditional Roman fare. Despite this, the gricia was a bit dry, but the artichoke wedges were amazing, and above all, the tagliata di carne was super super super. The house red wine was truly pleasant.
Matteo Sasso
.
28 Ottobre 2025
8,0
Impeccable service! Very good food, shame about the rigatoni alla vaccinara, which were lukewarm and should have arrived steaming hot... but I want to go back!!
Stefano Fusco
.
27 Ottobre 2025
6,0
Overcooked pasta in Rome which is unforgivable. Maybe it is catered to Americans who likes them overcooked and drenched in way too much sauce? I feel bad but it's a shame that the name sake pasta did not live up to it. Staff was very friendly which saved the day. Overly loud music that makes you have to yell as well. It's definitely a tourist spot like many others who have lost the soul of italian cooking.
Amanda Lu
.
26 Ottobre 2025
6,0
Extremely well-trained staff and very good!
Very good food
And the tiramisu is also very tasty.
A. Tosca
.
23 Ottobre 2025
10,0
Very classic, very old school restaurant. Had an octopus salad with potatoes and thinly sliced celery strips, and then a pasta cacio e pepe (light cream with pecorino Romano and fresh ground black pepper). The pasta was perfectly al dente. Picked a half bottle (I was solo) of house Merlot for only 8 euros. All around a great experience, people watching the opera goers from across the street
Michael G
.
22 Maggio 2025
10,0
When I’m in Italy and especially Roma, I want classic Italian food and a decent house red. Too many restaurants have lost their souls and sorry, Michelin restaurants don’t qualify.
La Matricina serves both meat and fish and I have to say the grilled sea bass was among the best I had. We started with a mixed salad and their homemade chickpea soup, amazing. The pasta selection is what you want and we tried two favorites including melt in your mouth lasagna.
House wine is delicious as is the service. Entire bill for two was less than 140 EU. Surely one of the best restaurants in Roma.
Be sure to make a reservation, busy all night. Outdoor seating available, very limited.
Larry G
.
21 Maggio 2025
10,0