Il Goccetto was one of the city’s first wine bars and is now a Roman institution. It’s hard to miss, with its large "vino e olio" sign out front and a steady stream of people spilling out the door, sipping wine on the picturesque Via dei Banchi Vecchi. The vibe inside, with a chalkboard wine list, might tempt you, but the real draw is the impromptu street party outside, where the sidewalk becomes one of the city’s most fun hangs. The mixed plate for two steps up from the usual charcuterie, with bites like salmon rolls stuffed with robiola, artichokes in olive oil, and rare roast beef. It’s the perfect amount of food for a light dinner or just enough to tide you over until your 9:30pm reservation.

photo credit: Maela Bonafede