Il Segreto - Italian restaurant near the Vatican

We had the best experience here after visiting the Vatican, and a huge part of that was thanks to Sid. He’s one of those servers you remember long after the meal. Funny, genuinely personable, and full of energy in a way that makes the whole place feel even more alive. He didn’t just take our order—he guided us through the menu like a friend who really wants you to try the good stuff. And the food? unreal. Fresh, full of flavor, and easily some of the best we’ve had in Rome. It’s the perfect spot to unwind after the Vatican—just a few steps away, no stress, and you instantly feel taken care of. If you come here (and you should), ask for Sid. We left smiling, happy, and already talking about coming back. Highly recommend.

After a long day exploring the Colosseum and other attractions, my best friend and I were quite exhausted. Since we were also celebrating a birthday, we wanted to find a special place for dinner. After a bit of searching, we decided on Il Segreto — the restaurant looked stunning online, and the menu promised many intriguing dishes. Plus, it was conveniently close to where we were staying. When we arrived, we were warmly welcomed and offered a glass of prosecco. Shortly after ordering our wine, we were surprised with a complimentary dish from the chef — a true work of art on a plate. The presentation was beautiful, but what impressed me most was how harmoniously all the flavors came together. And that was just the beginning. For our starter, we ordered bruschetta — and honestly, I’ve never had one so delicious. The mozzarella and tomatoes were of outstanding quality. Then came the highlight of the evening and the reason we had chosen this place — the grilled octopus. I must say, I’ve never eaten octopus that tasted this good! Everything on the plate worked perfectly together — the texture, the balance, the flavors — simply exceptional. But what truly makes this restaurant stand out is the team behind it. They work like a perfectly tuned machine — friendly, polite, and incredibly knowledgeable about both food and wine. Their passion and professionalism made the evening truly unforgettable. I would highly recommend Il Segreto to anyone who appreciates fine cuisine and excellent service. It was a dining experience to remember — pure culinary pleasure.

We had dinner there last night, and I have nothing but praise for this place. Although we didn’t have a reservation, a table was arranged for us within minutes. Our waiter, a young man named Sinsai, was excellent—attentive, friendly, and professional. The food was absolutely delicious, and the atmosphere was warm and inviting. A truly great experience!

FULL of food tour groups touting "the best of Rome." Part of a new generation of trendy spots that may not actually be Italian. Host generously gifted a glass of prosecco when we couldn't be sat for our reservation due to large food tour groups doing tagliere tastings. The good: cut, chew and cook of guanciale on the carbonara Is perfect. Barolo by the glass (€15) is tasty, and the small wine list well curated. Service is a bit inattentive, though very hospitable once they have a moment for you. Zucchini "pie/tart" was actually crustless, a sformatino, delicious with Parmesan cream and pickled red onion, the paprika accent completely lost. Ricotta and porcini ravioli (€23 for five) with saffron cream had almost no taste of mushroom, came out nearly cold, and the small amount of saffron cream a bit too dry and tacky, not warm and flowing, but it was a pretty yellow color. Tagliatelle on the carbonara was overcooked, and the sauce mostly forgettable. Torta Caprese with canned whipped light cream was spot on in chocolate/almond flavor, but very dry and crumbly. The pistachio cream was a miniscule afterthought, not even a garnish. We were generously gifted a tasting of (not a Roman thing) limoncello to finish, a charming touch. Drafty room near the front sliding door on a chilly night, unkempt bathrooms, power repeatedly went out. Lots of energy and hip feeling, but certainly not a "secret." No reason to seek this place out until they figure out what really makes a place special and do away with the multiple simultaneous (at one point over 2/3 of the entire restaurant) tasting-only in-and-out food tour groups. You can do much better and more Italian/less touristy in Rome for less money with more attentive service. Still these are very friendly and charming staff, when you can get their attention. €95 for 2 people sharing 1 app, 2 pastas, 1 dolce, and three glasses of wine.

Came here for my girlfriend's birthday after a day at the Vatican. Booked on advance and was treated to such an amazing meal, the staff were super friendly and helpful. The food was beautiful, a more limited menu but each option was delicious, with the service in between unbeatable. They made the evening so special and I can only thank them for the quality of the entire experience. Definitely one to visit again next time I'm in Rome

This restaurant was the most lovely, unexpected treat! We came here because we missed our reservation elsewhere, and it was such a happy mistake that we ended up at this brilliant restaurant. The service was so warm and friendly, and the atmosphere is welcoming and intimate. We had the calamari fritti and bruschetta to start which were both delicious - the calamari was tender and lightly crisp and the stracciatella on the bruschetta was unique and so indulgent. For mains we both had the bucatini alla amatriciana - one of the 4 famous Roman pastas you have to try when you're in Rome. This was a perfect example of an amatriciana and must be tried! We had my favourite Roman vegetable side dish with our pasta - chicoria. This is a bitter dark green leafy green sauteed in lots of olive oil with anchovies. Absolutely delicious. Sadly we didn't have room for dessert but the tiramisu looked delicious! We did enjoy a beautiful glass of expensive but gorgeous quality barolo - a must-try Italian grape.

Me and my best friend came to this restaurant because we saw a good recommendation online and we were not disappointed! The food was delicious, we both had the ravioli with mushrooms, parmesan and saffraan sauce and enjoyed every bite of it. I also had the tiramisu and it was honestly the best one I had in my life! We were also happily surprised with the extra drinks and appetizers that were also delicious. Danny was our waiter and we loved him as well. He was very kind, gave us a great explanation about the food and always made sure we had everything we needed. If I ever come back in Rome I will definitely come back!

The flavors at Il Segreto were absolutely awesome — every dish was clearly made with care and attention to detail. The Bruschetta was divine!!! The Tonnarelli with tomatoes and basil, swordfish, and bottarga was flavorful, though it could’ve used just a touch more acidity to really make it shine. The sirloin was a little on the tough side, but again, the flavors were spot on. The atmosphere was wonderfully friendly and inviting, and special kudos to Amina, who took such great care of us throughout the meal. We’ll definitely come back whenever we’re in Rome!