If you're looking for a classic Roman coffee experience, La Casa del Caffè Tazza d'Oro is…read moredefinitely one to add to your list. Located just steps from the Pantheon in Piazza della Rotonda, this historic coffee bar has been a Roman institution since 1946 and is especially known for its coffee, which has helped make it one of the city's most famous cafés.
The line was pretty long when we arrived, but it moved surprisingly quickly. You can enjoy your coffee and pastries inside while standing at the counter, or, if you're lucky, grab one of the few seats available inside. There's also outdoor seating, but keep in mind that sitting outside comes with a separate--and if I remember correctly, significantly higher--service charge.
I'll be honest--I'm pretty sure I ordered the wrong thing. I ended up with what was essentially a frosty coffee ice cream, which is not what I was going for, lol. I was supposed to order the Granita di caffè con panna, which is their signature. It's a coffee granita--essentially finely shaved/frozen coffee--topped with whipped cream. Instead of whipped cream, I accidentally told my Italian nephew I wanted the coffee with ice cream, whoops.
I also ordered a maritozzo, which I was absolutely on a mission to try while in Rome. The maritozzo is a traditional Roman sweet bun filled generously with whipped cream, and it did not disappoint.
I was in a bit of a rush, so I didn't have time to enjoy my maritozzo there. I packed it up and ate it later that evening, and it was still delicious. I've also essentially given up coffee completely, so I only had a few bites and sips of my coffee ice cream, but what I tried was really good.
The menu is fairly large and varied, and it can feel a little overwhelming when you're standing at the counter with a line behind you. I'd recommend taking a look at the menu ahead of time if you can so you have an idea of what you want before you get up to order.
Overall, I'd definitely recommend stopping by. Tazza d'Oro is an institution, the location is hard to beat, and there's something fun about experiencing one of Rome's longtime coffee traditions--even if you accidentally order the wrong thing like I did!