20 Best Restaurants in Rome, GA
This article was written by local contributor Aubrey Cohen & edited by the Travel Lens team.
Ah, Rome - the city of seven hills. No, not that Rome, but the lovely city nestled in the heart of Georgia.
With a charming downtown area and a friendly community, it's no wonder I've chosen to call this place my home for the past few years.
And let me tell you, one of the best things about living here is the fantastic array of restaurants that Rome has to offer.
From classic Southern cuisine to international delights, there's always something mouthwatering to enjoy.
In this article, I'll be taking you on a delicious journey through some of the best restaurants in Rome, Georgia.
So, grab a fork, and let's get started!
Cosmic Dog Outpost
Ah, Cosmic Dog Outpost, my go-to spot for a laid-back evening with friends, family, and of course, my furry companions.
It's my favorite beer garden here in Rome, Georgia, and I'm always eager to introduce newcomers to its charm.
The moment you step into the place, you can feel the warmth and friendliness oozing from every corner.
I've been to my fair share of beer gardens over the years, but Cosmic Dog Outpost has an unparalleled atmosphere.
They've got this awesome variety of beer, including some of the most delicious sours I've ever tasted.
Not to mention their wine and slushy selections, which make for a perfect summer treat.
What I particularly love about this place is the ample outdoor seating right by the Etowah River, making it a picturesque spot to unwind after a long day.
And the live music? They've got it all year round, adding to the already vibrant atmosphere of the beer garden.
There's nothing like sipping on a cold beer and watching the river lazily flow by as you listen to some great tunes.
Aventine Rome
I've been to Aventine Rome twice, and every time, it's been an amazing experience. The first time, I was taken aback by the delicious food.
The seasonal cocktails are a must-try, especially the spiced pear martini and the solstice.
If you're a fan of brioche rolls, Aventine Rome definitely doesn't disappoint.
For dinner, I highly recommend the confetti white pizza, even if you're not usually into white pizzas.
The restaurant has a great festive atmosphere, perfect for a night out with friends or a romantic dinner date.
I'm already looking forward to my next visit to enjoy a pizza and a couple of beers out on their patio.
It's truly a fine dining experience worth every penny spent.
Jerusalem Grill
Just the other day, I decided to treat myself to a delicious Mediterranean meal and visited Jerusalem Grill, which is known for its authentic flavors.
As soon as I walked in, I was greeted by a low-key and colorful atmosphere, which perfectly set the mood for the tasty meal I was about to enjoy.
Jerusalem Grill has a slightly different service style, as you pay and tip upfront.
However, their attentive service and complimentary cheesecake more than made up for that small quirk.
I ordered their lamb shawarma, and let me tell you, the flavors transported me straight to Morocco.
The juicy and tender meat was cooked to perfection, and the accompanying stuffed grape leaves were an amazing addition to my meal.
One surprising highlight of my meal was the fries. Normally, I'm not too impressed by fries, but Jerusalem Grill's version was far from the typical fast-food variety.
They were super delicious and had a unique taste that I couldn't resist snacking on during my drive home.
Sam's Southern Eatery
As someone who's always on the lookout for great Southern food, I've been to Sam's Southern Eatery multiple times, and every visit has been nothing short of delightful.
The menu is extensive, offering a little bit of everything for everyone.
My personal favorite is their fried green tomatoes, which are crispy, delicious, and served with a mouthwatering remoulade sauce that takes the dish to a whole new level.
They are friendly and attentive, ensuring that every customer is taken care of.
One of the best things about Sam's Southern Eatery is that their food is not only delicious but also reasonably priced.
I've tried their red beans and rice, and as someone who's very particular about Cajun food, I was pleasantly surprised at how well-prepared and flavorful it was.
I also love their grilled chicken salad, which has a unique and satisfying flavor profile.
The salad is enormous and packed with quality ingredients, making it a great value for the price.
The addition of pickles, something not commonly found in most salads, gives it a refreshing twist that I can't get enough of.
Doug's Deli Downtown
As someone who lives in Rome, I've been to Doug's Deli Downtown a handful of times, and I must say it's one of the better spots in town.
The interior is spacious, modern, and has a quirky charm to it.
It's a place where you can unwind and enjoy a calm and relaxing atmosphere.
The menu at Doug's is varied and reasonably priced, making it difficult to decide what to eat.
Luckily, they have a great selection of vegetarian options, which I appreciate.
I remember trying Doug's downtown bowl on one of my visits, and it was absolutely delicious!
My friends and I love hanging out at Doug's, especially with the option for both indoor and outdoor seating.
It's a great place to bring our fur babies along since they can enjoy the outdoor seating with us.
One thing to note is that they don't have any dairy-free options on the dessert/bakery side, but they do offer a few gluten-free options.
There have been instances, like when a friend's order was put together a bit messy and had to be sent back.
The Foundry
One of my favorite spots in town is The Foundry.
I stumbled upon this hidden gem a few months ago, and ever since, it has become my go-to place to unwind and enjoy some fantastic craft beers.
As someone who loves trying out new beers, I was delighted by their extensive selection of both on-tap and bottled options.
Plus, they even offer wine on tap, which is a unique touch!
I am always amazed by the variety of beers I end up trying each time I visit, and I'm constantly discovering new favorites.
Besides the fantastic drinks, The Foundry also offers mouth-watering food.
Some of my personal favorites include the surf & turf pasta and spicy buffalo flatbread, which pair perfectly with the beers.
Sammy's American Grill
Let me tell you about the time I visited Sammy's American Grill with some friends. I live nearby, so it's always great to have a good local spot to hang out.
I noticed right away that the food presentation looked really good.
We decided to order a variety of dishes to share, including fried fish, gyro, fries, and a mushroom Swiss burger.
While the fried fish wasn't my favorite, the other dishes were quite enjoyable.
The atmosphere was lively, and the service was phenomenal.
However, the highlight of the night was definitely the wings!
They were amazing, as were the fries.
My friends and I agreed that we would definitely be coming back for more.
The prices might be on the higher side, but the quality of most of the food and the pleasant customer service make it worth the occasional splurge.
Great China
I've been on the lookout for a delicious and satisfying Asian meal when I stumbled upon Great China, a Chinese restaurant that has quickly become one of my go-to places for takeout nights with the family.
Their website makes ordering a breeze, but I've also enjoyed walking in and experiencing their quick and friendly service.
One of the standout dishes at Great China has to be their egg drop soup.
It's incredibly fresh, and unlike other places that simply reheat it after refrigeration, they prepare it to order.
The egg rolls are another must-try item on the menu – they're absolutely delicious!
On one occasion, I called in an order and mentioned that I don't like mushrooms.
To my surprise, they took the time to remove the mushrooms from my hot and sour soup!
Anas by the River
Let me tell you about one of my favorite spots in town – Anas by the River.
I first dined there back in 1997, and even though they've moved since then, their food is still absolutely amazing!
This summer, I plan to make this restaurant a regular stop, especially since it's connected to the walking paths in Rome – perfect for a scenic stroll before or after a delicious meal.
Now, I can't talk about Anas without mentioning their Chicken Alfredo.
The portion is huge, and every bite is a delight.
Their Cuban sandwich is also fantastic, making that first bite feel like a little piece of heaven.
My partner and I also tried their burger and sandwich, which had delicious ingredients.
But let me tell you, the absolute best thing we've had at Anas is their ham, turkey, and roast beef wrap, complete with their special sauce.
Provino's
Just last week, I had the pleasure of dining at Provino's Italian Restaurant with a group of friends.
We were craving some classic Italian dishes, and this homey restaurant did not disappoint!
We started off with some cheese sticks as an appetizer, which was absolutely delicious.
I took the recommendation of a fellow reviewer and ordered the spinach tortellini, and I must say, it was divine!
The pasta was cooked to perfection, and the flavors blended beautifully. My friends also enjoyed their pasta and seafood dishes.
One thing that stood out about Provino's was their reasonable lunch prices.
As someone who lives nearby, it's always great to find a delicious, affordable dining option.
The portions were generous, too, making it an even better value.
Schroeder's New Deli
Whenever I'm craving a delicious Italian-American meal, I know I can always count on Schroeder's New Deli.
I've been coming to this place for years, and it just seems to get better with time.
Their menu is incredible, offering everything from tasty sandwiches and personal pizzas to mouthwatering wings, nachos, and even beer.
Check out their website here to see their full menu.
One of my favorite memories at Schroeder's was when I celebrated my anniversary with my partner a few years back.
The customer service here is top-notch, and it's just one of the many reasons I keep coming back.
Now, I have to mention their fried mushrooms – they're an absolute must-try!
I've recommended them to all of my friends, and they've never been disappointed.
Bella Roma Grill
As a food enthusiast, I have to say that Bella Roma Grill has become a favorite Italian restaurant of mine in the area.
I recall my first visit there, and it certainly won't be the last.
I was pleasantly surprised by the beautiful interior and exterior of the establishment.
The food at Bella Roma Grill is simply amazing.
They serve well-seasoned dishes with excellent presentation and taste.
I remember trying their pizza, which was perfect, with a crust that wasn't too hard or overcooked, and the toppings and cheese were well done.
I also had their spaghetti, which was equally impressive – it had the right amount of sauce versus noodles and tasted so fresh!
My family members were equally impressed with their meals too.
My partner loved the cheese steak meal, and my daughter couldn't get enough of the wings.
We visited on a Sunday afternoon, and it wasn't too crowded, which made our experience even better.
John Henry's Grill
I've been living in this area for quite some time now, and one restaurant that I always find myself coming back to is John Henry's Grill.
It's become a go-to spot for me whenever I'm craving a delicious meal. I often find myself recommending it to friends and family, and I've never heard any complaints so far.
My most recent visit to John Henry's Grill was for their brunch, and I must say, it was as amazing as always.
I walked in around 11:30 AM and was seated immediately, which is quite impressive considering how popular the place is.
I couldn't resist ordering their sweet potato fries, which are more like a dessert with their heavenly taste.
I also decided to try their French toast, which was absolutely delicious.
Although the syrup ended up touching my potatoes and bacon, the flavors all blended well together, and I thoroughly enjoyed it.
The potatoes, in particular, were fantastic and left me craving more.
During my other visits to John Henry's Grill, I've tried various items on their menu and have been impressed every time.
The blackened grouper with fried okra is a standout dish, and their flat iron steak always comes cooked to perfection.
The service has consistently been fast and courteous, making my dining experiences here even more enjoyable.
Jasmine Thai Cuisine
My go-to spot for Thai food in the area has to be Jasmine Thai Cuisine.
I've been eating here for the past four years, and I've always enjoyed their flavorful and authentic dishes.
The service is quick and friendly, making it an ideal place to grab a delicious meal.
There are so many dishes to choose from at Jasmine Thai, but some of my personal favorites include their crab rangoons, steamed gyoza, pad Thai, and basil fried rice.
I also love trying out their different curries.
They cater to various dietary preferences with vegetarian options as well as seafood and meats.
Plus, you can even customize your dish's spiciness level – just be aware that even the mild spice might be too hot for some, as traditional Thai food tends to be quite spicy!
Roma Mia
One of my go-to spots for a delicious Italian meal in town is Roma Mia. I've dined there several times, and it never disappoints.
The blackened chicken Alfredo and the Lasagna Napoletana are among my favorites, and I enjoy how their dishes come with a choice of soup or salad.
Their potato soup is especially satisfying.
The atmosphere at Roma Mia is warm and inviting, with a classy yet not over-the-top interior design.
The bread they serve comes with a delightful dipping sauce that really elevates the experience.
What I appreciate most about Roma Mia is the balance of good serving sizes and reasonable prices, making it a perfect spot for a night out with friends or family.
Yummy Thai
I recently decided to give Yummy Thai a try since it's the only Thai restaurant in Rome.
The presentation could have been improved as well.
I ordered a "very hot" pad woon sen, and although it wasn't the best I've had, I still managed to eat half of it.
The dish was a bit dry and bland, and it reminded me of a Chinese buffet's attempt at Thai food.
I have to agree with other reviews, Jasmine Thai definitely offers a better experience and provides more authentic flavors.
El Zarape Mexican Restaurant
Just the other day, I decided to visit El Zarape Mexican Restaurant for dinner.
The moment I walked in, I was impressed by its colorful and casual atmosphere.
I must say, the food at El Zarape was a bit of a mixed bag.
The price seemed a little higher compared to other Mexican restaurants in the area that offer the same quality and serving size.
While the shredded chicken and ground beef in the burritos and tacos lacked flavor and had a runny consistency, their grilled meats were a completely different story.
The Papas Locas appetizer I ordered was fantastic, with well-seasoned and flavorful chicken.
Their rice was also delicious, but I wasn't a big fan of the beans.
Despite the minor issues with the food, the service at El Zarape was exceptional.
One standout drink I enjoyed was the Texas Peach Margarita, which tasted great and didn't have the syrupy taste that I've experienced at other places.
Also, don't miss out on their Tijuana Dip – it's a must-try!
Mellow Mushroom Rome
Last week, I decided to grab a bite at Mellow Mushroom Rome, and I must say, it was a delightful experience.
The funky, art-filled atmosphere of this pizzeria immediately caught my attention as I walked in.
I couldn't help but notice the unique car booth seating, which I'm sure kids would absolutely love.
I opted for the Pacific Rim pizza, and it turned out to be a fantastic choice.
The flavors were on point, and the stone-baked crust gave it that extra crunch.
While waiting for my pizza, I also got to try their cheese bread, which was delicious and a must-try for anyone visiting.
The combination of great food, relaxed atmosphere, and exceptional service made my visit to Mellow Mushroom Rome a memorable one.
Stanley's On North Broad
I've been to Stanley's on North Broad a couple of times, and I must say, it's a great place for some southern home-cooked meals.
The last time I went there, I had chicken dressing and beef stew with okra.
The okra was delicious, and the stew was decent, with tender meat and veggies.
The dressing wasn't my favorite, but my kids enjoyed their mac and cheese and beef stew.
My son also had green beans, cornbread, and baked chicken breast, which he seemed to enjoy.
We all had sweet tea, which was a perfect accompaniment to our meals.
The ambiance is quite pleasant, with lots of wall decor.
The prices are reasonable for the quality and quantity of food served.
Harvest Moon Cafe
One of my favorite spots to dine and unwind in town is the Harvest Moon Cafe.
The moment you step inside, you'll fall in love with the historic, brick-walled interior and the cozy Southern cafe atmosphere.
If you're a dog owner like me, you'll appreciate the dog-friendly roof bar - a great way to enjoy a meal with your furry friend by your side.
Their menu offers a wide array of American dishes, and I have to mention the Key lime pie - it's hands-down the best I've ever tasted!
The whipped topping is to die for.
On one of my visits, I tried the Thai chicken and found it not only delicious but also beautifully presented.
My partner had the wicked cheese steak, which we both agreed was one of the best we've ever had.
Along with its fantastic food, Harvest Moon Cafe also offers a nice selection of beers and a big Sunday brunch.
With live music from the neighboring venue, the Cafe provides an exceptional dining experience for locals and visitors alike.
I can't wait to go back and try more items from their menu!
Final Thoughts
Rome, Georgia, offers a diverse and appetizing selection of restaurants that I've grown to love over the years.
With options ranging from the mouth-watering baked goods at Cosmic Dog Outpost to the authentic flavors of Jerusalem Grill, there's always something to satisfy your cravings in this charming town.
So next time you find yourself in our lovely town, don't hesitate to try out some of these fantastic eateries—I guarantee you won't be disappointed!
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