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Trattoria Bella Roma SPQR
Master Critic Reviews (9 Lists)
Trattoria Bella Roma SPQR
7.8
A long-running neighborhood trattoria doing Roman comfort food with a family rhythm. Pastas lean classic—Amatriciana, bolognese, seafood stews—served in a cozy strip-mall dining room that feels built for regulars. Reliable, unpretentious, and easy to return to.
Must-Try Dishes:
Tagliatelle Bolognese, Bucatini all’Amatriciana, Cioppino
Scores:
Value: 8.3
Service: 8.2
Consistency: 8.4
Food Quality: 8.1
Atmosphere: 6.4
Cultural Relevance: 7.9
What makes it special: Roman-style classics from a true neighborhood staple.
Who should go: Families and locals who want dependable Italian.
When to visit: Weeknight dinner for calm service.
What to order: Amatriciana, bolognese, cioppino.
Insider tip: Ask about daily pasta specials—often the best bite.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Small private lot plus easy surrounding street parking; generally manageable even at peak dinner hours.
Dress code: Casual to smart casual—jeans, tees, and relaxed attire fit the neighborhood vibe.
Noise level: Moderate—tables are close but still allow normal conversation without shouting.
Weekend wait: 10–20 minutes for walk-ins; larger groups may wait longer.
Weekday lunch: Usually no wait; walk right in.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Good coverage—several pastas, salads, and pizzas work well for vegetarians.
Vegan options: Limited—sauces and pastas skew traditional; a few vegetable-forward plates can be modified.
Gluten-free options: Available—many pastas can be made with gluten-free noodles upon request.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes if you want something cozy, low-pressure, and neighborhood-casual; it’s not a showpiece spot, but great for an easy, conversation-friendly meal.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Typically yes—walk-ins are common, especially on weeknights. For weekend groups, calling ahead helps.
Is it kid-friendly? Very—high chairs, simple pasta dishes, and a relaxed dining room make it ideal for families with young children.
Best For
Better for: Classic Roman comfort dishes, neighborhood warmth, and dependable pastas without a luxury markup.
Skip if: You want a trend-forward Italian experience, big-night-out ambience, or handmade-pasta artistry; look elsewhere for special-occasion polish.
Trattoria Bella Roma SPQR
8.0
A family-run Roman trattoria where wood-fired pizzas share the stage with pastas and hearty mains, giving you a full-service Italian night on Robertson. The crust leans traditional—thin, lightly charred, and built to carry simple, savory toppings. It’s a comfortable, repeat-visit spot for locals who want dinner with a little ceremony.
Must-Try Dishes:
Margherita Romana, Prosciutto arugula pizza, Amatriciana pizza
Scores:
Value: 7.5
Service: 8.1
Consistency: 8.2
Food Quality: 8.3
Atmosphere: 7.6
Cultural Relevance: 8
What makes it special: Roman family trattoria pairing wood-fired pies with classic hospitality.
Who should go: Italian dinner crews and date nights.
When to visit: Dinner midweek for calmer service.
What to order: Margherita, prosciutto arugula, amatriciana.
Insider tip: Split a pizza and pasta to get the full house read.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking on Robertson is possible but tight during dinner hours; meter spots open up after 6pm. No valet, so plan 5–10 minutes to circle on busy nights.
Dress code: Smart casual; jeans are fine, but most diners lean slightly polished for dinner.
Noise level: Moderate — you can hold a full conversation without shouting, though weekend peaks run livelier.
Weekend wait: 30–50 minutes without a reservation, especially between 6:30–8pm.
Weekday lunch: Low to no wait; walk-ins are almost always seated promptly.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Strong selection — pizzas, salads, and several pastas are naturally vegetarian.
Vegan options: Limited — a few modifiable dishes, but not a dedicated vegan program.
Gluten-free options: Gluten-free pasta is available; gluten-free pizza availability varies by day, so call ahead.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes — the warm, classic trattoria feel and attentive service make it an easy, comfortable first-date choice without feeling overly formal.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Usually, yes for lunch and early weekday dinners. For weekend dinners, reservations are strongly recommended to avoid a 30+ minute wait.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes for older kids who enjoy Italian classics; high chairs and kid-focused dishes are limited, so it’s better suited for families with children 6+.
Best For
Better for: A full-service Italian night with wood-fired pizzas plus hearty Roman staples — ideal when you want more than just a pizzeria experience.
Skip if: You’re looking for ultra-thin Neapolitan-style pies, fast-casual pacing, or a purely pizza-focused meal.
Trattoria Bella Roma SPQR
8.5
A long-running neighborhood trattoria where red-sauce classics are the point, not the pretense. Their lasagna leans traditional—savory ragù, steady béchamel, and a homey bake that locals treat like comfort ritual. Come for an easy sit-down Italian night that still feels rooted in the block.
Must-Try Dishes:
Classic Meat Lasagna, Chicken Parmigiana, Rigatoni Bolognese
Scores:
Value: 8.3
Service: 8.2
Consistency: 8.9
Food Quality: 8.7
Atmosphere: 7.2
Cultural Relevance: 8.4
What makes it special: Old-school Pico trattoria with reliably satisfying classic lasagna.
Who should go: Locals craving no-fuss Italian comfort.
When to visit: Weeknight dinner before the Pico rush.
What to order: Meat lasagna, chicken parm, rigatoni bolognese.
Insider tip: Ask if the lasagna just came out—timing matters here.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Mostly street parking on Pico and adjacent residential blocks; metered spots turn over fairly quickly before 6pm, but can tighten during peak dinner hours. No valet or lot.
Dress code: Casual and comfortable; jeans, tees, and sweaters fit right in. No need to dress up unless you want to.
Noise level: Moderate during peak dinner windows—conversation is easy at most tables, with a gentle hum from families and groups.
Weekend wait: 15–30 minutes depending on group size; larger parties may wait longer during peak hours.
Weekday lunch: Typically no wait; you can walk in and get seated quickly.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes—several vegetarian pastas and appetizers; sauces are straightforward and easy to request modifications for.
Vegan options: Limited—most dishes rely on cheese or dairy, but a couple of pasta options can be made vegan by request.
Gluten-free options: Moderate—some sauces and salads are naturally gluten-free; ask about gluten-free pasta availability on the day.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes if you’re aiming for a relaxed, low-pressure first date with comforting food and a laid-back neighborhood vibe. Not ideal if you want something upscale or high-energy.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Generally yes—this is a walk-in–friendly neighborhood trattoria. Arriving slightly early on weekends helps secure a table without a wait.
Is it kid-friendly? Very—families are common here, and the menu has plenty of simple, kid-pleasing dishes. High chairs and accommodating staff make it easy for younger diners.
Best For
Better for: Classic red-sauce comfort, hearty lasagna, and a welcoming, old-school neighborhood vibe that feels reliably homey.
Skip if: You’re looking for modern Italian, craft cocktails, or a more refined date-night environment. This is a comfort-first spot.
Trattoria Bella Roma SPQR
8.1
A neighborhood Italian trattoria with candle-friendly lighting and a low-noise dining room that makes it easy to settle in. The pasta and Roman-leaning mains are straightforward and comforting, built for sharing without fuss. A quietly reliable romantic pick when you want classic Italian in-ZIP.
Must-Try Dishes:
Cacio e pepe, Osso buco, Tiramisu
Scores:
Value: 7.8
Service: 7.9
Consistency: 8.1
Food Quality: 8.4
Atmosphere: 8
Cultural Relevance: 7.7
What makes it special: Classic Italian trattoria energy that feels naturally romantic.
Who should go: Pasta-loving couples.
When to visit: Weeknights for a quieter room.
What to order: Cacio e pepe, osso buco, tiramisu.
Insider tip: Ask about off-menu specials—often the best share play.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking along Pico and adjacent residential blocks is the main option; it’s generally manageable before 7pm but can tighten quickly on weekends.
Dress code: Smart casual; polished jeans and a button-down or a simple dress fit the room’s relaxed-romantic energy.
Noise level: Low to moderate—easy for full-volume conversation without raising your voice.
Weekend wait: 30–45 minutes without a reservation, especially during 6:30–8:00pm.
Weekday lunch: Typically no wait; walk-ins are the norm.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Solid coverage—pastas, starters, and salads offer multiple meat-free choices.
Vegan options: Limited—sauces and pastas skew dairy-forward, but simple modifications are sometimes possible.
Gluten-free options: Available—most pastas can be made gluten-free on request, though not all dishes translate perfectly.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes—dim lighting, comfortable pacing, and shareable Italian classics create an easy, low-pressure romantic atmosphere.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Usually on weeknights; weekends benefit from calling ahead, but early evenings often have a gap before the rush.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes for older kids—portions are shareable and the room stays calm, but it’s not optimized for toddlers or stroller traffic.
Best For
Better for: Classic Roman-leaning comfort dishes in a quieter, more intimate setting than the louder, trend-tilted Italian spots nearby.
Skip if: You’re seeking boundary-pushing Italian cooking or a high-energy, scene-driven date environment.
Trattoria Bella Roma SPQR
8.1
A long-running Italian trattoria with a reliable outside patio lane that stays lively but not chaotic. Expect classic red-sauce comfort, grilled mains, and a neighborhood rhythm that makes outdoor dinners feel easy and familiar.
Must-Try Dishes:
Chicken parmigiana, Pasta pomodoro, Arancini
Scores:
Value: 8.3
Service: 7.9
Consistency: 8.2
Food Quality: 8.2
Atmosphere: 7.8
Cultural Relevance: 7.9
What makes it special: Neighborhood Italian staple with a true patio option.
Who should go: Families and groups craving classic Italian
When to visit: Early evening for easiest patio seating
What to order: Chicken parm, house pastas, tiramisu
Insider tip: Patio fills first on weekends—go early or reserve.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Metered street parking along Pico and adjacent residential blocks; generally manageable before 6pm but can tighten during peak dinner hours. No valet.
Dress code: Casual to smart casual; comfortable for families and weeknight dinners. Jeans and simple tops are the norm.
Noise level: Moderate on the patio; lively but still conducive to conversation. Indoor room can be slightly louder during peak weekend rush.
Weekend wait: 30–45 minutes without a reservation for patio seating; indoor tables may turn slightly faster.
Weekday lunch: Typically no wait; easy walk-in availability.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes — several pasta and salad options plus customizable red-sauce dishes.
Vegan options: Limited — 2–3 naturally vegan items with possible modifications (ask about tomato-based sauces).
Gluten-free options: Yes — gluten-free pasta available on request, though preparation occurs in a shared kitchen.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Good if you want something relaxed and familiar rather than upscale. The patio provides a comfortable setting, but it’s more casual trattoria than romantic bistro.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Usually, yes — early evenings and weekdays are easy. On weekends, the patio fills quickly, so walk-ins may need to wait unless you arrive before 6pm.
Is it kid-friendly? Very — outdoor tables work well for families, and the menu is approachable for most ages. High chairs and space for strollers are available.
Best For
Better for: Casual outdoor Italian dinners where comfort dishes and a neighborhood feel matter more than trendiness.
Skip if: You want a formal date-night setting or chef-driven Italian; opt for a more upscale bistro in the area instead.
Trattoria Bella Roma SPQR
8.0
A family-run Roman trattoria with steady service and a menu that’s easy to navigate for groups. Pastas and thin-crust pizzas come out quickly, and the dining room stays relaxed even at peak lunch. Reliable for a sit-down meeting that wants comfort and a little polish.
Must-Try Dishes:
Cacio e pepe, Roman-style pizza, Chicken parmigiana
Scores:
Value: 8.1
Service: 7.9
Consistency: 8.2
Food Quality: 8.2
Atmosphere: 7.2
Cultural Relevance: 7.8
What makes it special: Neighborhood Roman trattoria built for dependable lunches.
Who should go: Teams wanting easy Italian sit-downs.
When to visit: Midweek lunch for quieter tables.
What to order: Cacio e pepe, pizza, chicken parm.
Insider tip: Split a couple pastas family-style for the best value.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Metered street parking on Pico and neighborhood side streets; spots turn over steadily during lunch but fill quickly at dinner.
Dress code: Business casual; polos, button-downs, and clean jeans are all appropriate for lunch meetings.
Noise level: Moderate — steady conversation hum, but you can hold a business discussion without raising your voice.
Weekend wait: 25–45 minutes without a reservation, especially for larger groups.
Weekday lunch: Usually seated immediately; occasional brief waits for parties of 6+.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Strong vegetarian coverage — multiple pastas, pizzas, and salads are naturally meat-free.
Vegan options: Limited; a few modifiable dishes but not a dedicated lineup.
Gluten-free options: Gluten-free pasta is available on request; cross-contact possible in a small kitchen.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? It works for a low-pressure, casual lunch date where conversation matters more than ambiance; not ideal for a romantic evening.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes for weekday lunch — walk-ins are the norm. Evenings and weekends benefit from booking ahead, especially for groups.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes — familiar pasta and pizza options make it easy for kids; the room is relaxed enough for families.
Best For
Better for: Group-friendly Italian lunches that run on time, with approachable dishes and efficient pacing for meetings.
Skip if: You’re looking for cutting-edge or upscale Italian or a quieter, more intimate room for special-occasion dining.
Trattoria Bella Roma SPQR
8.1
A family-owned Roman-leaning trattoria where kids can do pizza while adults go deep on pastas and hearty mains. Portions are generous, pacing is friendly, and the vibe is casual enough for weeknight dinners. Reliable place for groups who want Italian comfort without fuss.
Must-Try Dishes:
Cacio e pepe, Wood-fired pizza, Cioppino
Scores:
Value: 8.2
Service: 8.1
Consistency: 8.3
Food Quality: 8.4
Atmosphere: 7
Cultural Relevance: 8
What makes it special: Roman-style pastas and pizza in a relaxed neighborhood room.
Who should go: Families craving Italian night.
When to visit: Weeknights for smoother pacing.
What to order: Cacio e pepe, margherita, meatballs.
Insider tip: Split a pasta and a pizza to cover their best lanes.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking on Robertson can be tight during peak dinner hours; look for metered spots on adjacent residential streets. No valet.
Dress code: Casual and family-friendly—jeans, tees, and relaxed attire are all perfectly fine.
Noise level: Moderate, with lively family energy. Still easy to hold normal conversation at most tables.
Weekend wait: 30–45 minutes without a reservation, especially for larger groups.
Weekday lunch: Usually no wait; walk right in.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Good coverage with several pastas, pizzas, and appetizers.
Vegan options: Limited—most dishes rely on cheese or eggs, but you can piece together a simple vegan meal if needed.
Gluten-free options: Some GF-friendly options, especially salads and select mains; pasta availability varies, so ask before ordering.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Better suited for casual dates than romantic ones. The room is lively and warm, which works for a relaxed early relationship vibe but not ideal for intimate ambiance.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes—walk-ins are common. Weeknights are easiest, but on weekends expect a short wait unless you arrive early.
Is it kid-friendly? Very. High chairs are typically available, servers are patient, and the pizza/pasta menu is built for kids. Great for ages 2–12.
Best For
Better for: Large portions, family comfort, and a mellow neighborhood vibe that’s easier than trendier Italian spots nearby.
Skip if: You want upscale ambiance, handmade pasta depth, or a quiet dining room—this is more casual trattoria than destination dining.
Trattoria Bella Roma SPQR
8.3
A longstanding neighborhood trattoria that does Roman-leaning comfort in a relaxed room built for multigenerational dinners. Pastas are the main draw—rich, classic, and reliably portioned for sharing—while pizzas keep kids happy without feeling like an afterthought. Friendly pacing makes it an easy weeknight family anchor.
Must-Try Dishes:
Cacio e pepe, Margherita pizza, House meatballs
Scores:
Value: 8.4
Service: 8.3
Consistency: 8.6
Food Quality: 8.7
Atmosphere: 7.6
Cultural Relevance: 8.1
What makes it special: Roman-style pastas and pizza in a true neighborhood room.
Who should go: Families craving classic Italian comfort.
When to visit: Weeknights for smoother pacing.
What to order: Cacio e pepe, margherita, meatballs.
Insider tip: Split one pasta and one pizza to cover their best lanes.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking dominates; meter availability varies but is usually manageable on weeknights. Expect tighter competition after 6pm and during Shabbat-adjacent rushes. No valet.
Dress code: Casual to smart casual. Jeans, sweaters, and kid-friendly attire are fully appropriate; adults can lean slightly dressy if making it a family celebration.
Noise level: Moderate. The room stays lively with families but rarely crosses into chaotic. Normal conversation is easy at most tables.
Weekend wait: 20–35 minutes without a reservation, longer for large groups.
Weekday lunch: Typically no wait; immediate seating is common.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Strong coverage. Several pastas, salads, and pizzas work well for vegetarian diners.
Vegan options: Limited. A few modifiable items exist, but this is a dairy- and pasta-focused kitchen.
Gluten-free options: Moderate accommodation. Some dishes can be adapted, but pasta-heavy items may have limited GF alternatives—confirm with staff.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? It works if you're aiming for low-pressure, comfort-forward Italian in a warm neighborhood setting. Not ideal for highly intimate or upscale romance, but great for an easygoing, get-to-know-you meal.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes—most weeknights are walk-in friendly, though groups of five or more should call ahead. Weekend peak windows benefit from reservations for smoother pacing.
Is it kid-friendly? Very. High-chair friendly, patient service, kid-pleasing pizza and pasta options, and a room that welcomes families with toddlers through teens.
Best For
Better for: Dependable Roman-leaning comfort, shareable pastas, and a relaxed multigenerational atmosphere without pretense—ideal for family nights and casual group outings.
Skip if: You’re seeking cutting-edge Italian, a quiet date-night ambiance, or extensive dietary customization like fully vegan or gluten-free menus.
Trattoria Bella Roma SPQR
8.3
A long-running kosher trattoria that plays the hits with confident Roman-leaning pastas and a relaxed, low-lit dining room. It’s not flashy, but the comfort-forward cooking and hospitable rhythm make it a dependable date spot. Come for a classic, unbothered night out.
Must-Try Dishes:
Cacio e pepe, Margherita pizza, Braised meatballs
Scores:
Value: 8.1
Service: 8.2
Consistency: 8.5
Food Quality: 8.6
Atmosphere: 8
Cultural Relevance: 8.2
What makes it special: Kosher Roman trattoria comfort with steady execution.
Who should go: Couples who want classic Italian.
When to visit: Early evening for calm service.
What to order: Cacio e pepe, margherita, meatballs.
Insider tip: Split one pasta and one pizza to hit their best lanes.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking on Pico and adjacent residential blocks; generally manageable before 6pm but can tighten during peak dinner hours. No valet.
Dress code: Smart casual; jeans and a nice top work fine, but many couples lean slightly dressy for date night.
Noise level: Moderate; low-lit room keeps things comfortable, and you can hold conversation without raising your voice.
Weekend wait: 20–35 minutes without a reservation depending on synagogue-adjacent traffic.
Weekday lunch: Typically no wait; fast seating even for walk-ins.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Strong options—most pastas and pizzas can be made vegetarian by default.
Vegan options: Limited; salads and a few pasta adjustments possible but not extensive.
Gluten-free options: Moderate; some dishes can be adapted, but no dedicated gluten-free pizza dough.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes—its low-lit, relaxed room feels intimate without pressure, and the comforting Roman-leaning dishes make it easy to focus on conversation rather than ceremony.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Usually on weeknights, yes. Weekends fill up earlier, so arriving before 6:30pm gives you the best chance at a walk-in two-top.
Is it kid-friendly? Somewhat; families do come, but the room leans date-night oriented. Best for older kids who can sit through a full meal rather than toddlers.
Best For
Better for: Comfort-forward Roman classics, calmer pacing, and a more intimate atmosphere compared to busier kosher Italian spots in the corridor.
Skip if: You want modern, high-concept Italian or a wide vegan-friendly menu—this stays classic and dairy-focused.