They say that good food is followed by great conversation, which perhaps explains why Romans are famed for their confident humour and ability to embrace anyone into a friendly place at the dinner table. Food in Rome is treated as a luxury, where good cooking isn't seen as an occasional indulgence and even a slice of pizza in the street has to be buonissima, or ‘very good', to be worthy of lunch.

The Eternal City is a food aficionado's paradise and it's no wonder that new low-cost flights here are cropping up quickly, as a combination of exquisite flavours, beautiful architectural surroundings and laid back, friendly surroundings make Italy's capital a treat for the senses. As a city, Rome largely ignores the need to offer international cuisine and instead delivers what it does best; flavoursome Italian fare, but with a focus on regional varieties and specialities.

For modern Sicilian dining at a good price, though restaurants in Rome are by no means cheap compared to other European cities, try Trattoria on Via deal Pozzo delle Cornacchie. Sharp refreshing flavours are the norm here, with ingredients like mint, sardines, cherry tomatoes and capers. Or for a more straightforward trattoria, try Matricianella, just off Piazza San Lorenzo. Always busy, this laidback and informal eatery caters to traditional Roman favourites, with a strong emphasis on serving the right wine for each meal.

Of course a visit to Rome always requires that you to try at least one Roman pizza; wafer-thin, crisped and covered in olive oil, there's nowhere in the world that serves pizza like Rome. For an authentic and well-priced experience, pop into Recafe in Piaxxa Augusto, where more than 20 types populate the menu and great people watching can be had from the outside dining.

For a more stylish chance to experience modern Rome's bustling upmarket restaurant scene, try Dal Bolognese. Known for its celebrity clientele, particularly Rome's fashion-set, this fairly unassuming restaurant is nestled in one of the city's most beautiful squares, Piazza del Popolo, and takes pride in its home-made pasta. Favoured by designers and politicians alike, Osteria dell'Ingegno is a stripped back and popular hangout for Rome's scene-setters. Fairly off the beaten track as far as tourists are concerned, the menu (and art) here is innovative, adventurous and certainly memorable, and the friendly atmosphere is a welcome relief from Rome's many bustling and chaotic nightspots.

Of course breakfast in Rome is rarely any more than a cappuccino, which is drank only at breakfast; however during the day there are plenty of cheap, light options available on route. Try one of the many outdoor markets throughout the city for a fresh, quick bite to eat, or stop by one of the more popular piazzas to find some cheap but delicious flatbread sandwiches. Rome hotels will usually be more than happy to offer recommendations on where to eat ‘off the beaten track', so always take advantage of this available local knowledge.

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