Interesting Bars

Top Bars in Rome – Most Viewed (2025)

Explore Rome's historic bar scene with wine bars in ancient cellars, trendy cocktail lounges in Trastevere, and traditional aperitivo bars in the historic center. Discover hidden speakeasies in historic buildings, rooftop bars with Colosseum views, and craft beer venues in the up-and-coming neighborhoods. From classic Italian aperitivo culture to innovative mixology, Rome offers a unique blend of ancient history, traditional Italian hospitality, and contemporary cocktail innovation in the Eternal City.

The Court - Image 1

Nestled between Palazzo Manfredi and the residence that houses our new Grand View Suites, The Court is our new upscale cocktail bar in Rome. Bar manager Matteo Zed has just returned to Rome after an international career that took him all the way from Japan to New York and devoted himself to the revival of cocktail culture in the Eternal City. Palazzo Manfredi’s exclusive bar in Rome is a modern monument to mixology which stands on a panoramic terrace overlooking the Colosseum and the ancient monuments of Imperial Rome, where you can sample the latest libations made with innovative ingredients and techniques. The Court cocktail bar in Rome is a courtyard in the traditional sense, as intimate and sophisticated as it is open to beauty. Large walls protect the space on two sides, setting the stage for the spectacular views of the Colosseum and the Ludus Magnus gladiator school. A sophisticated, contemporary bar concept in one of the most iconic locations in Rome and an unforgettable setting for guests to experience the rebirth of cocktail culture. Located directly above the Ludus Magnus, the ancient gymnasium of Rome’s fierce gladiators, The Court, rising on one of the most exclusive panoramic terraces in Rome, commands a rare view of the illuminated Colosseum in all its timeless glory. A place like no other that offers guests the warmest of welcomes and a feast for all the senses. Our cocktail bar in Rome with a view on Colosseum is a classic courtyard surrounded by two high walls, with the bar on one side, the seating area on the other and a walkway between the two. A color palette featuring warm yellows and oranges, elegant midnight blue and the noncolors black and white provides the building blocks for our signature minimal style. Stylish furnishings add to the elegance, whether it’s the long counter and stools on one side or the conversation area with comfortable chic seating on the other.

Cocktails
Experience
Mixology
Via Labicana, 125 - 00184 Roma, Italy
Drink Kong - Image 1

Founded in 2018 by renowned mixologist Patrick Pistolesi (formerly at Barnum and Café Propaganda), Drink Kong is Rome’s definitive high-tech speakeasy, ranking No. 33 on. Its multi-room layout channels a dystopian sci-fi world—neon-lit lounges, arcade machines, a "Jungle Room" for live rock/jazz, and a wood-panelled omakase tasting room. The menu is minimalistic but masterminded: cocktails are listed by name and base spirit, while flavor direction—dry, sweet, bitter—is left to bartenders' intuition. Prices hover around €12–14 (≈$13–15) per drink . Small plates—bao buns, tacos, dumplings, hummus, Scandinavian open-smørrebrød—complement the drinks for €4–6. The atmosphere balances futuristic cool without high decibels—think Blade Runner noir meets Japanese minimalism—making it lively yet intimate. Multiple credible sources note the sleek, immersive experience and polished yet playful service . It’s best to reserve in advance (especially for bar or omakase seating); open nightly from 18:30 to 02:00. Patrons can also squeeze in late-night visits, as last orders are around 01:30.

experience
mixology
Piazza di San Martino ai Monti 8, 00184 Roma RM, Italy
The Jerry Thomas Speakeasy - Image 1

The Jerry Thomas Project, known as Jerry Thomas Speakeasy, opened in Rome’s Centro Storico in 2010 by a group of visionary bartenders and is now one of the world’s most celebrated hidden bars. Named for Jerry Thomas, “the godfather of mixology,” the speakeasy pays homage to the Renaissance of classic cocktails with inventive twists and house‑crafted spirits such as Vermouth del Professore. Guests enter through a discreet black door at Vicolo Cellini 30 by reservation only and must answer a daily password question found on the bar’s official website to gain access. The interior is compact and atmospheric—dark leather, velvety carpets, retro lighting, gangster nods like Sinatra mugshots, and jazz echoing softly in the corners. Smoking indoors is permitted, and flash photography is discouraged. Cocktails—from €15 to €18 (some house specials around €20)—are meticulously prepared à la minute, not pre-batched, spanning classic originals and artful reinterpretations like the Banana Paradise, Mole Negroni, Peat+Milk, Ghost Old‑Fashioned, and South Lake Fizz. The time slot for each booking is typically around 75 minutes to allow equal access for all guests . Membership costs €5/year upon first visit, and reservations are mandatory for entry—no walk-ins accepted. It's widely recognized as Rome’s finest speakeasy and has featured multiple times in The World’s 50 Best Bars rankings.

speakeasy
sophisticated
mixology
Vicolo Cellini, 30 00186 Roma RM, Italy
Il Marchese – Amaro Bar - Image 1

Il Marchese – Osteria, Mercato & Liquori is a striking fusion of two worlds: the graceful finesse of a French salon and the warm, hearty spirit of a Roman trattoria. Located in Rome’s charming centro storico near Piazza del Popolo, it holds the distinction of being Europe’s first Amaro Bar. Step inside and you're greeted by elegant stuccoes, velvets, and parfum‑lit chandeliers. The back bar dazzles with an ever‑growing collection of hundreds—and by some counts, over 600—distinct amaro labels, including rare vintage editions from the 1950s to ’70s. Whether you’re an amaro aficionado or curious newcomer, the range here is unmatched. The cocktail offering is equally creative. Menus are divided into explorations of Spritz, Americano styles, seasonal signatures, and inventive twists like the French Cordusio (gin, amaro, Franciacorta) or the smoky Paloma Cavour with amaro and rosemary syrup. Add to that ever‑fresh ideas like clarified milkamaro punch or fruity-lavender concoctions, and you have a cocktail list that surprises and delights. Foodwise, Chef Daniele Roppo crafts modern‑lightened takes on Roman classics using locally sourced, high‑quality ingredients. Expect croquettes, the “Roman poker” of carbonara, amatriciana, gricia and cacio e pepe, as well as porcini tortelli, saltimbocca, lamb scottadito, and homemade desserts like tiramisu in traditional or pistachio form. For a pre‑dinner treat, their aperitivo between ~18:30–21:00 for around €15 includes your drink plus choices like pasta tasters, cured‑meat and cheese boards, or pinsa with fig and mozzarella—an excellent way to sample both food and drink. Open daily typically from lunchtime into the late night (roughly 12:30 pm to 2:00 am), Il Marchese is a dynamic destination both for an evening cocktail and a full‑bodied Roman meal.

gastropub
aesthetic
historical
Via di Ripetta 162, 00186 Rome, Italy
OTIVM Roof Bar - Image 1

Set on the rooftop of the boutique OTIVM Hotel at Via d’Aracoeli 11a in Rome’s historic core, OTIVM Roof Bar brings together panoramic vistas, creative drinks and stylish design for a memorable evening out. From the moment you ride the glass elevator up and step onto the terrace, you’re greeted by sweeping views of landmarks such as the Capitoline Hill, the majestic Vittoriano monument and the terracotta-domed skyline of the Eternal City. The concept behind OTIVM’s drink menu is playful and inventive: cocktails are mapped to moods and colours. You’ll find choices like “Yellow” for Brightness & Change, “Blue” for Trust & Stability, “Violet” for Awareness & Peace — each one crafted with premium spirits, interesting infusions and presentation in mind. Service is attentive, and the bar offers both an outdoor terrace and a covered/heated area, making it comfortable to visit even in cooler months. Many reviewers highlight the friendly mixologists, the complimentary snack-bit trio with the drinks and the sense of intentional design. Because the rooftop is situated right in the heart of Rome, it’s perfect for a sunset drink, a stylish date, or a relaxed pre-dinner aperitivo before moving on to dinner elsewhere. Guests are advised to reserve in advance to secure terrace seating, especially at peak sunset hours. While the setting is refined, the dress code is labelled as “casual” and the vibe is relaxed-luxury rather than ultra-formal (though coming nicely dressed is advisable for the terrace crowd). In short, if you’re looking for a rooftop bar in Rome that blends elegance, excellent views, creative cocktails and a memorable atmosphere—OTIVM Roof Bar absolutely delivers.

rooftop
outdoor
sophisticated
Via d’Aracoeli 11a, 00186 Roma RM, Italy
Latta - Image 1

Situated in the vibrant Ostiense district of Rome, Latta – Fermenti e Miscele offers a standout experience that fuses craft drinks culture with bold design and creative food. The venue occupies a former industrial mill complex (ex Biondi Mills) and embraces its industrial heritage with raw brick archways, metal beams, and a high-ceiling layout that evokes a loft-style setting. The concept: push boundaries through fermentation. From unusual “fermented” cocktails on tap to natural wines, craft beers, ciders and house-made sodas, Latta is a laboratory of flavour. The team behind it includes pioneering figures in Rome’s craft-beer and cocktail scenes. In practical terms you’ll find: A drink list that spans low-ABV fermented cocktails (e.g., a Gin Sour Fermentato) as well as natural wines and craft tap beers. A food menu leaning street-food but with quality: hotdogs, tacos stuffed with porchetta or beef tongue, buns with Roman-style fillings and more. A design-forward interior: minimalist industrial finish with elements inspired by American soda-brand aesthetic and contemporary art (boxes on walls containing live botanicals, sheet-metal surfaces). Outdoor space: a terrace area offering a more relaxed setting, especially suited for gatherings in warmer months. The atmosphere is creative and stylish without being ultra-formal – a perfect fit if you’re after a bar that feels distinctive, encouraging you to linger over both conversation and cocktails. It’s well-suited for groups, design-minded visitors, or anyone interested in craft drinks and something a bit off the tourist-norm for Rome. From openings around 18:00 (kitchen and drinks) to late-night hours (often until ~02:00) on most evenings except one early closure day. Whether you’re starting the night with a creative drink or finishing it with food and a long chat, Latta brings a fresh‐edge alternative to Rome’s bar scene.

craft-beer
gastropub
outdoor
Via Antonio Pacinotti 83, 00146 Roma RM, Italy
MùN Rooftop Cocktail Bar - Image 1

Set atop the DoubleTree by Hilton Rome Monti (Piazza dell’Esquilino 1), MùN Rooftop Cocktail Bar elevates the Rome nightlife experience—both literally and figuratively. From the glass elevator ride up to the 8th‐floor lounge and terrace, you’ll arrive into a sleek space with warm Tuscan-orange tones, slate-grey metal accents and a design that blends indoor lounge with open-air terrace seamlessly. The main draw: the sweeping roof-top views over Rome. You’ll spot the domes of Basilica di Santa Maria Maggiore, the rooftops of Rione Monti and the warm glow of sunset reflecting off terracotta buildings. From sunset onwards, when the lights of the city emerge, the mood becomes especially magical. But it’s not just the view. MùN is defined by its cocktail-programme, titled “ChROMA”, which explores colour, emotion and sensation through mixed drinks: each cocktail has a chromatic identity—“Pink”, “Amber”, “Emerald”, “Deep Blue” and more—inviting you to choose a flavour-mood rather than simply a drink. Pair your drink with curated small-plates and tapas: from focaccia with mackerel, ribs with barbecue glaze, tacos with beef tartare to vegetarian bites—meaning it’s fully apt for a prolonged aperitivo or light dinner rather than just one quick drink. Opening from around 17:30 (5:30 pm) to midnight daily, the venue welcomes hotel guests and external visitors—making it accessible whether you’re staying in the hotel or wandering in for a rooftop cocktail. This spot blends elevated design, memorable vistas and high-style mixology—ideal for users looking for something rooftop, refined yet relaxed, and perfect for a “shadow hobby” bar outing in Rome’s Monti/Esquilino area. Fun tip: Arrive just before sunset to catch the golden light. Book a terrace table if possible for the best skyline shot. And consider starting with one of the ChROMA cocktails—choosing by colour might spark a memorable conversation.

rooftop
outdoor
aesthetic
Piazza dell’Esquilino 1, 00185 Roma RM, Italy
Freni e Frizioni - Image 1

In the heart of Rome’s vibrant Trastevere district, Freni e Frizioni offers a refreshing twist on the classic Roman aperitivo. Housed in what used to be a mechanic’s workshop, the bar has embraced that industrial-chic heritage — raw walls, reclaimed furniture, modern art accents — and fashioned a destination that blends creative mixology with neighborhood spirit. From around 18:30 until 02:00, the space comes alive. Patrons gather to sip cocktails on the terrace, spill into the adjoining piazza and sample a standout feature: a vegetarian (and vegan-friendly) buffet included with the price of a drink. Expect hummus bowls, salads with quinoa, couscous, stuffed vegetables and more — unique for Rome, where many aperitivo bars stick to small finger-foods. The cocktail list matches the food ambition: inventive, globally inspired — under the “Travel With Us” theme at one point — and crafted by bartenders who understand that good drinks and good snacks make for a memorable evening. If you visit, arriving early (right at opening around 18:30) helps secure good seating; as the night progresses it gets more crowded and the queue for cocktails can grow. Don’t skip exploring the buffet — it distinguishes this bar from many other “drink only” venues.

speakeasy
outdoor
aesthetic
Via del Politeama 4, 00153 Roma RM, Italy
The Race Club - Image 1

Tucked behind a nondescript workshop façade at Via Labicana 52 (just a short stroll from the Colosseum), The Race Club Speakeasy offers an experience that’s part private club, part designer cocktail lounge. Once you’ve signed in (yes, there’s a membership-card system) and descended the stairs past vintage motorcycles and garage aesthetic, you arrive in a moody, atmospheric space: brick vaults, rich leather sofas, ambient lighting, and a soundtrack that blends jazz, old-American rock and late-night club energy. The cocktail programme is taken seriously here. Expect inventive signature drinks (e.g., “The Chopper”, “Burnout Negroni”, “Speedster Martini”) that reflect the theme of speed and rebellion, with high-quality ingredients and presentation to match. Operating from the late evening (starting around 22:00) until 03:00 or beyond, this is a spot for after-hours conversation, stylish socialising, and a touch of exclusivity rather than full-on club mania. It’s best to arrive early (or book ahead) if you want a seat; the membership fee is modest (circa €5) and gives access for a year. Dress-smart casual will serve you well here.

speakeasy
quirky
aesthetic
Via Labicana 52, 00184 Roma RM, Italy