The Secret to Dining Like Audrey Hepburn in ‘Roman Holiday’ – No Tourist Traps Allowed

Roman Holiday (1953) is more than just a classic romantic comedy—it’s also a love letter to Rome, capturing the city’s beauty, charm, and of course, its iconic cuisine. The film, starring Audrey Hepburn as Princess Anne and Gregory Peck as American reporter Joe Bradley, takes us on an unforgettable culinary journey through one of the most famous cities in the world. While the movie showcases the glitzy side of Roman life, it’s the simple, authentic dining experiences that really steal the scene. If you’re looking to eat like Audrey Hepburn and Gregory Peck in Roman Holiday, here’s how to recreate the delicious moments from the film in the Eternal City.

1. Start with Simple Pleasures: Milk and Biscuits

At the beginning of the film, Princess Anne is confined to the palace, where her meals are as uninspired as her surroundings. The first meal we see her eat is a lonely tray of milk and biscuits—hardly a cinematic feast. But it’s clear that the excitement begins when Anne steps outside the embassy and explores the vibrant streets of Rome. The takeaway here? Sometimes, the simplest moments—like a comforting snack—can lead to the most exciting adventures.

2. Savor Coffee Like a Roman

When Anne escapes her royal confines and meets Joe at a local bar, she’s introduced to one of Italy’s most beloved rituals: coffee. If you’re in Roman Holiday mode, a strong espresso is the only way to go. Rome is famous for its coffee culture, and there’s no shortage of places to get a perfect cup.

For the full experience, find a café with outdoor seating where you can watch the world go by. While a cappuccino is great for breakfast, you’ll want to go for a single or double espresso if you’re channeling Joe Bradley’s no-nonsense attitude. Caffé shakerato—an espresso shaken with ice and sugar—is another must-try. Head to Drink Kong for a contemporary twist, or opt for quieter spots like Solotto 42 and Bar del Fico for a more laid-back experience. Just remember Joe’s words when Anne is feeling tipsy: “Get yourself some coffee, you’ll be alright.”

3. Enjoy Gelato at the Spanish Steps

No Roman holiday is complete without a cone of gelato, and Roman Holiday delivers one of the most iconic moments in film history when Anne enjoys a gelato on the Spanish Steps. This scene encapsulates the joy of indulging in one of Italy’s finest treats while soaking up the sun. For the best gelato in Rome, visit Giolitti, a Roman institution known for its extensive variety and creamy, flavorful offerings. If you’re looking for other great gelato spots, Otaleg!, Fassi, and Günther Gelato are also excellent choices.

4. Sip Drinks at a Roman Bar

In Roman Holiday, Anne and Joe also visit a small bar where Anne enjoys a glass of champagne, and Joe orders a Caffé shakerato. This relaxed, unpretentious atmosphere is perfect for enjoying drinks while mingling with the locals. The film captures the essence of Rome’s drinking culture—where the emphasis is on simplicity and enjoying the moment. For a drink with a view, head to a bar near the river or towards Circo Massimo, such as Marco Martini, where you can sip cocktails and unwind in the heart of Rome.

5. Indulge in Classic Roman Pasta Dishes

When Anne and Joe stroll down to Rocco, a charming street-side restaurant on Via Giovanni Lanza, Anne orders champagne, and Joe opts for a Caffé shakerato. While they don’t eat in this scene, you certainly can. Roman pasta dishes like Cacio e pepe, Amatriciana, and Carbonara are staples of the city’s culinary scene, and restaurants like Nannarella, Otello, and Tonnarello in the Trastevere neighborhood do them exceptionally well.

If you’re planning to channel the film’s culinary spirit, make sure you indulge in a hearty plate of pasta at one of these local spots. Just as Joe admits he has “no kitchen; nothing to cook; I always eat out,” you’ll find plenty of opportunities to dine out in the city, enjoying classic dishes that highlight the simplicity and flavor of Roman cuisine.

6. The Roman Dining Philosophy: Eat Out Like Joe Bradley

One of the most memorable lines from Roman Holiday comes from Joe Bradley when he tells Anne, “I have no kitchen; nothing to cook; I always eat out.” This carefree approach to dining reflects the Roman philosophy of enjoying life through food, with no need for elaborate home cooking. To fully embrace this sentiment, take the time to explore Rome’s many trattorias, cafes, and bars, where the focus is on fresh, local ingredients and the joy of good company. Don’t rush—just savor the moment, just like Anne and Joe did during their adventures.

Conclusion: Eating Like Audrey Hepburn and Gregory Peck

To eat like Audrey Hepburn and Gregory Peck in Roman Holiday, immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Rome. Start with the simplicity of a strong espresso or a gelato cone, then savor classic Roman pasta dishes and enjoy the laid-back bar scene where you can sip cocktails and people-watch. Whether you’re indulging in coffee, gelato, or pasta, follow in Anne and Joe’s footsteps and embrace the leisurely pace of Roman dining. After all, Roman Holiday is about more than just food—it’s about savoring life’s simple pleasures and making unforgettable memories along the way.