Rome

Owner-chef Cristina Bowerman dishes out “inventive” ‘New Italian’ cuisine to “delight the finest palates” at this “not-to-be-missed” Trastavere venue. — Zagat

The chef at this modern, bright and fashionable restaurant selects the best Italian ingredients to create innovative dishes based on traditional specialities. — Michelin Guide

An institution in these parts, wood-panelled Armando is a rare find – a genuine family-run trattoria in the touristy Pantheon area. — Lonely Planet

Is it a deli, a wine bar or fully fledged restaurant? Actually it's all three, and you can either just have a glass of wine and some cheese or go for the full menu. — Rough Guide

Heinz Beck is, without a doubt, the most talented chef in Rome right now. — Time Out

Checchino is a traditional Roman restaurant originally opened in 1887 by the Mariani family. — Travel + Leisure

At Il Convivio, imposingly formal decor is matched by impeccable, equally formal service....The Troiani brothers turn out perfectly executed dishes. — Concierge

Piperno is known for its carciofi alla giudia (Jewish-style fried whole artichokes) and other Roman specialties like filetti di baccalà (fried cod fish). — Travel + Leisure

Since this is one of Rome's most popular restaurants (for good reason) don't even think about arriving without a reservation. — Gayot

When it comes to the sacredness of Italian gastronomy, Bologna is a patron saint. Dine on some of the best food in town, out in front, on their cobble stone seating. — BlackBook

This family-run restaurant is considered one of the best seafood destinations in Rome. — Frommer's

This long-standing family-run restaurant enjoys a memorable setting in a tower on the Tiber’s tiny island. — Lonely Planet

Though the frescoed dining rooms are lovely, the choice place to dine is outside on the piazza, under the big white umbrellas. — Fodor's

A popular little wine bar, just off Piazza Navona, with an always-busy terrace and narrow, bottle-lined interior. — Lonely Planet

It's all the things you want a real Roman eating experience to be: authentic, in a historic setting, filled with Italians eating good food at good prices. — Fodor's

A grungy location but a cosy spot, this trendy, animated San Lorenzo restaurant servas Pugliese pasta dishes, fish and seafood and unusual salads. — Rough Guide

Flush at the border of buzzy Testaccio and up-and-coming Ostiense is Porto Fluviale, a multi-venue tribute to la gastronomia romana. — Condé Nast Traveler

“Count on getting a terrific meal” at this “old standby” dishing out “classic” Tuscan fare near the Spanish Steps. — Zagat