Rome’s lesser-known, nonclassical quartiere
Located between Termini, Sapienza University and the Verano Monumental Cemetery, the San Lorenzo neighborhood has long been known as Rome’s alternative quartiere, rich in industrial history and heart. A working-class area heavily bombed during World War II, it carries a gritty, resilient spirit that continues to fuel raw creativity. By day, animated coffee shops and galleries draw in curious passers-by; by night, the area turns into a lively circuit of aperitifs, live gigs and late bites for every taste.
To help you navigate San Lorenzo, we’ve covered some of the best restaurants, bars, galleries and nightlife spots to experience the neighbourhood at its best.
Take a long walk through its streets to admire colourful murals and street art, stroll through Villa Mercede – the local green space with a small library – and pause under Porta Tiburtina, the historic gateway in the Aurelian Walls.
Most importantly, make some time to explore its many restaurants, bars and entertainment venues, from long-standing local favourites to newer arrivals like Soho House and The Social Hub.
Today, San Lorenzo stands out as one of Rome’s most creative hubs, with around 60 active artists, 10 galleries, and 50 street art pieces spread across the area. This dense combination of galleries, studios and bookshops is part of the San Lorenzo Art District initiative, which continues to shape the neighborhood’s artistic identity.
RESTAURANTS in SAN LORENZO
Kiko Sushi Bar
Piazzale del Verano, 90
Open Tue-Sun 1pm-2.30pm, 7.30pm-10.30pm
kikosushibar.it
Kiko, led by master chef Atsufumi Kikuchi, fuses Japanese technique with New York polish to deliver sushi in a chic, intimate setting. Here you can find top-quality fish, meticulous plating, and well-paced service from a knowledgeable team. In case you prefer a night in, they also offer home delivery.
Mazzo
Via degli Equi, 62
Open Mon-Sat 6pm – 12am
instagram.com/mazzo_roma/
Mazzo is an intimate San Lorenzo restaurant-laboratory from The Fooders (Francesca Barreca & Marco Baccanelli), combining a smart wine bar with bold, ingredient-led cooking. The menu highlights Roman cuisine, such as fried tripe, and other quintessential specialities, alongside seasonal pasta. A top pick in San Lorenzo for contemporary Roman food with a curated wine list.
SAID dal 1923: Antica Fabbrica del Cioccolato
Via Tiburtina, 6
Open Mon- Sun 10 am- 8 pm
instagram.com/saiddal1923/
SAID is a historic 1920s chocolate factory, now a bistro with warm, industrial-chic rooms that honour its “fabbrica” roots. It’s worth stopping in for lunch or dinner, then finishing with signature desserts, such as handmade chocolates, cakes, and rich hot chocolate. SAID is a perfect idea for tea or aperitivo, with an on-site shop to pick up artisanal sweets to take home.
Tram Tram
Via dei Reti, 46
Open Tue-Sun 12:30 pm – 3 pm, 7:30 pm- 11 pm
tramtram.it
Tram Tram is a beloved family-run tavern, founded by the Di Vittorio women in 1991 and named for the tram that still clatters past. The kitchen bridges Pugliese seafood and Roman classics (golden fried anchovies, offal with artichokes, and fresh pastas) paired with a characterful wine list. What makes it a true local favourite is a lively atmosphere and warm hospitality!
Gelato San Lorenzo
Via Tiburtina, 6
Mon-Sun 11am-1am
gelatosanlorenzo.com
Gelato San Lorenzo is a bright, spacious gelateria in the homonym neighbourhood, known for 100% natural recipes and top-quality ingredients. You can choose from distinctive flavours, with plenty of vegan options and gluten-free cones. Their friendly, speedy service and a central location make it an ideal post-dinner dessert stop.
Hamburgheseria
Via dei Reti, 40
Mon-Thur 12:30- 3 pm, 6:30 pm- 11:30 pm; Fri-Sat 12:30- 3 pm, 6:30 pm – 12 am
facebook.com/BurgerMarket
When in San Lorenzo, follow the neon to Hamburgheseria, an American-style burger bar serving classics like wings, onion rings, stacked burgers, and vegetarian options too. Their thoughtful craft and classic beer list, along with friendly staff, make it a go-to spot for comfort food in Rome.
Bonario
Via dei Volsci, 121
Mon-Wed 8:30 am- 4 pm; Thur-Fri 8:30 am- 11:30 pm; Sat 8:30 am- 10:30 pm; Sun 8 am- 3 pm
facebook.com/bonarioroma/
Bonario is a welcoming choice for vegetarians and vegans, serving vegetable dishes alongside seafood, tofu, pizza, and pasta. Signora Marisa’s sincere smile and attentive care set the atmosphere, with dishes prepared to order from very fresh ingredients.
L’Osteria Pesce Fritto e Baccalà
Via dei Falisci, 4/8
Mon-Sun 12- 11:30 pm
osteriapescefrittoebaccala.it
L’Osteria Pesce Fritto e Baccalà is a relaxed neighbourhood spot known for fried fish, baccalà and Roman classics with a twist. Homemade pasta, inventive seafood and quality meats come at fair prices, making it easy to settle in and enjoy.
Pastificio San Lorenzo
Via Tiburtina, 196
Sun-Thur 12.30pm – 12am; Fri-Sat 12.30 – 2am
pastificiosanlorenzo.com
Set inside San Lorenzo’s oldest pasta factory, this modern tavern blends quality cooking with a quietly nonconformist spirit. Their fresh tortellini, alongside ravioli and fettuccine, are a must-try! All served in a stylish space with vegetarian options and vintage touches.
Berberè Pizzeria (part of the Social Hub)
Via dei Sabelli, 32
Mon-Sun 12- 11pm
facebook.com/FerrovecchioSanLorenzo/
Berberè serves pizza that is between Roman and Neapolitan styles, known for light, highly digestible doughs, top-quality toppings, and a seasonal menu. The offer includes vegetarian and vegan options, good beers, and desserts. Set inside The Social Hub with a pleasant outdoor area, friendly staff and a relaxed atmosphere, it’s a go-to spot in San Lorenzo (booking is recommended).
Farinè La Pizza
Via degli Aurunci, 6
Tue-Sun 7 pm- 11 pm
farinelapizza.it
This pizzeria in San Lorenzo is often talked about, and it lives up to the reputation, focusing on quality and simplicity above all else. You choose between three different pizza formats, each designed to showcase how the dough behaves and tastes differently. There are no reservations, but service is fast and well organised, making the wait manageable. With its excellent value for money, it’s the kind of place where ordering several pizzas to share is part of the experience.
Ottavi dal 1921
Via dei Dalmati, 3
Mon-Sat 10:30 am- 11 pm
ottavi1921.it
This historic bakery in San Lorenzo has been thoughtfully repurposed into a welcoming all-day spot, serving breakfast pastries, pizzas, and focaccias from morning to night. Ottavi is especially loved for its filled schiaccine and the signature Ottavio Salato, a customisable stuffed bun ideal for lunch. With indoor and outdoor seating, Wi-Fi and veggie-friendly options, it’s an easy place to linger for a quick bite or a few hours of work.
Il Maratoneta
Via dei Volsci, 99
Mon-Sun 5 pm-12 am
instagram.com/ilmaratoneta_roma
This historic pizzeria, open since 1984, is often recommended by locals who know where to find their Roman pizza. The focus is on thin, crisp pizza romana, excellent fried starters, and quality ingredients that keep surprising all the Maratoneta’s clients.
Shifu Ramen
Via Tiburtina, 186/188
Mon-Sat 11:30 am- 3 pm, 6:30 pm- 10:30 pm; Sun 12- 3 pm, 6:30 pm- 10:30 pm
ramenshifu.it/san-lorenzo-roma/
Shifu Ramen channels a cosy Tokyo vibe with its dim lights, cherry blossoms, and playful anime touches. In the menu, you can find balanced broths with springy noodles, plus delicious gyoza and curry. Their friendly and efficient service makes dining out easy for families and travellers.
Pizzeria Formula 1
Via degli Equi, 13
Mon-Sat 6:30 pm- 12:30 am
facebook.com/pizzeriaformula1roma/
A historic pizzeria serving classic Roman pizza with affordable prices and a typical Roman vibe. It’s a perfect place for an easy night with friends or family; booking is recommended.
BARS in SAN LORENZO
Giufà Libreria Caffè
Via degli Aurunci, 38
Mon-Thur 9.30am – 9pm; Fri – Sat 9.30am – 10.30pm; Sun 3pm-8.30pm
libreriagiufa.it
This tiny, colourful bookshop–café in San Lorenzo is one of those places that people recommend with a smile. It is perfect for a coffee, a snack, or an easy chat over a book. Named after a mischievous figure from Italian folklore, it pairs a wide book selection (including children’s titles) with organic drinks, wine, and an excellent espresso.
Chiosco San Lorenzo
Via dei Peligni
Mon-Sun 7am – 10pm
facebook.com/chioscosanlorenzo
Set inside Parco dei Caduti del 19 Luglio, Chiosco San Lorenzo is one of those places that locals insist you don’t miss. It’s a small park kiosk with great coffee, affordable drinks, and a relaxed vibe for a drink, happy hour or even a few hours of work with a laptop. Especially loved in spring and autumn, this kiosk also has a playground area for kids and music for adults.
Officine Beat
Via degli Equi, 29
Sun-Thur 6pm -1am; Fri – Sat 6pm – 2am
officinebeat.it
Officine Beat offers a warm, welcoming service and inventive comfort plates. The bar shines with well-crafted cocktails alongside some classics. Officine Beat can be described as a cosy, modernist-meets-upcycled space that is definitely a pleasant discovery in the San Lorenzo neighbourhood.
Marmo by Anna
Piazzale del Verano, 71
Sun – Thur 6pm – 1am, Fri – Sat 6pm – 2am
facebook.com/Marmoroma/
Located behind an unassuming entrance, this cosy and stylish bar in San Lorenzo opens onto a plant-filled courtyard that resembles a secret garden. Warm hospitality, carefully chosen details, and a relaxed DJ set later in the evening make it a place people discover once and keep coming back to.
Bar Marani
Via dei Volsci, 57
Tue – Sat 7.30am – 1pm, 4pm – 9pm; Sun 8am – 1pm, 4pm – 9pm
When people talk about San Lorenzo, Bar Marani often comes up as a local landmark and as a place to meet friends over a proper coffee. The cherry on top is the quiet garden shaded by a vine pergola, creating a small oasis near Termini that’s perfect for breakfast, a cornetto, or a gelato.
The Apartment Bar
Via dei Marrucini, 1a
Mon-Sat 11.30am – 3pm, 6pm – 2am, Sun 6pm – 1am
theapartmentbar.it
This lounge place, with its large outdoor area and a stylish indoor bar, serves both aperitivo and dinner. The kitchen blends Eastern and Western flavours, while the elegant yet informal setting invites you to relax or dance late into the night. The Apartment Bar is often chosen for birthday parties and other celebrations.
ENTERTAINMENT in SAN LORENZO
Al Muretto
Via degli Aurunci, 26
instagram.com/almurettosanlorenzo
Al Muretto hosts a diverse range of events, from stand-up comedy to live music and artistic initiatives. This location is praised for its diverse cultural program and relaxed vibe; it’s definitely a weekend staple for those passing by the San Lorenzo neighbourhood. Only for Circolo ARCI members.
Soho House Rome (only for members)
Via Cesare de Lollis, 14
sohohouse.com/it/houses/soho-house-rome
Soho House Rome stands out less for views than for its warm, creative atmosphere and inclusivity. Members consistently praise the young, professional staff and the sense of ease while unwinding in the spa, staying in thoughtfully designed rooms, or simply enjoying conversation on the terrace. The Soho House is definitely a perfect location, from dining and drinks on the rooftop to swimming with a view overlooking the city.
La Conventicola degli Ultramoderni
Via di Porta Labicana, 32
Thur 9.30pm – 4am; Fri – Sat 9.30pm – 5am
instagram.com/conventicolaultramoderni/
Often recommended for a night that feels different from the usual, this cabaret and burlesque venue hosts contemporary performances with a strong artistic edge. The atmosphere here is elegant yet relaxed, and the talented performers on the stage truly stand out. Conventicola degli Ultramoderni is widely praised for its memorable shows, considered a must-see cultural experience in San Lorenzo.
Sally Brown Rude-pub
Via degli Etruschi, 3A/B
Mon-Sat 6pm-2am
facebook.com/sally.brown.148
Known for its legendary Wednesday jazz sessions and live ska and reggae nights, it draws both a loyal local crowd and curious music lovers. Their fair prices, good beer and an optimal sound system make it a small venue with big cultural energy.
The Social Hub
Viale dello Scalo di San Lorenzo, 10
thesocialhub.co/it/roma/
The Social Hub is a multi-purpose space, and it stands out for its modern style meeting rooms, spacious hotel rooms, carefully curated co-working and common areas. Guests highlight the warm, professional staff, attentive dining experience at Berberè pizzeria, and thoughtful touches, such as the relaxed spaces (the rooftop pool and garden). The Social Hub’s regular curated events and workshops connect locals, travellers and creatives in an energetic atmosphere, making it a true hub of San Lorenzo life.
STREET ART in SAN LORENZO
Recognised as one of Rome’s art districts, San Lorenzo is home to students and street art; from Via dei Volsci to Via degli Enotri and a collective wall through Via degli Ausoni, there is much to be seen. It houses the works of many famous international street artists, including a block-long mural by Alice Pasquini, titled “Welcome to San Lorenzo”.
This area is also home to the work of French artist Christian Guémy aka C215; the Italian artists SOLO, Unga, and The Broken Fingaz Crew; the Roman artist Lucamaleonte, and ABOVE, a Californian artist who, like Banksy, has chosen to hide his identity. New murals like “Tutti in bici” by Simone Ferrarini, in collaboration with Collettivo FX, and Eva Robin’s 2025 mural, representing colourful parrots, add to the artistic expression of this neighbourhood.
INSPIRATION
Street art in Rome
ART & CULTURE
San Lorenzo also offers a rich mix of history, art, and green spaces to explore on foot. The Cimitero Monumentale del Verano, one of Rome’s oldest cemeteries with roots dating back over 2,000 years, is open to the public and well worth a visit for its monumental tombs, sculpted statues, and imposing entrance portico. Nearby, the Basilica di San Lorenzo Fuori le Mura, a majestic fusion of two churches, preserves the relics of Santo Stefano, while San Tommaso Moro, a 20th-century parish church on Via dei Marrucini, is dedicated to the English Reformation martyr St.Thomas More.
For a quieter pause, Villa Mercede is the neighbourhood’s green heart, home to a small public library and shaded benches ideal for reading and relaxing. San Lorenzo is also a key destination for contemporary art in Rome, anchored by Fondazione Pastificio Cerere, a former pasta factory turned into a museum and cultural centre since the 70s. Independent galleries and creative spaces (including Bar.lina, Collettivo noMade, Laboratorio Fotografico Corsetti, Monti8, and more) contribute to the area’s vibrant artistic landscape within the SA.L.A.D project.
Finally, don’t miss out on four exhibitions hosted by San Lorenzo galleries Monitor, Gilda Lavia, Matèria, and Monti8. Highlights include the debut of Gwen Evans, works by Carla Grauner, the group exhibit “Confluenze” bringing together nine Italian and international artists, and the collective exhibition “Space in Britain” (check their official websites for openings).
