Why Antica Roma 🇮🇹 Italian Restaurant is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family

Antica Roma Italian Restaurant offers a genuine Italian dining experience that makes it a wonderful spot to meet up with friends. Known for its fresh homemade pasta and inviting atmosphere, it captures the true spirit of Italy right in the heart of its location. Highlights include watching the chef prepare fresh pasta right in front of you, which adds a unique and engaging element to dining here. The menu features classic Italian dishes such as butternut squash ravioli, bruschetta, and decadent desserts like panna cotta. The restaurant has late-night hours, remaining open until 1:00 AM, which makes it ideal for evening gatherings. Patrons appreciate the attentive service and the friendly, welcoming environment fostered by the staff and owners, further elevating the social experience. Whether it's a casual brunch with coffee or a full dinner, Antica Roma provides a cozy setting that encourages lively conversation and memorable moments with friends.

Here's what people think of Antica Roma 🇮🇹 Italian Restaurant

As of recent, Antica Roma 🇮🇹 Italian Restaurant holds a 4.7-star rating based on 448 reviews.

User reviews of Antica Roma Italian Restaurant reveal a variety of experiences, with an overall strong rating of 4.7 out of 5. Many guests praised the quality and freshness of the food, specifically noting the homemade pasta and the personal touch of chef-prepared dishes as some of the best Italian cuisine they have enjoyed. Numerous positive reviews highlight the friendly service, welcoming ambiance, and attentive staff, contributing to memorable meals and a cozy atmosphere perfect for socializing. However, some negative reviews have expressed disappointment over aspects such as slow service, occasional temperature issues with the dishes served cold, and at times food quality not meeting expectations. A few guests mentioned the higher price point relative to the portion or quality, while others noted inconsistency in specific menu items. Despite these critiques, the majority consensus is favorable, with regulars planning returns and recommending the spot for its authentic Italian flavors and charming setting. Overall, the reviews reflect a well-loved place that successfully balances traditional culinary craftsmanship with engaging hospitality, making it a standout choice for friends seeking a genuine Italian dining experience.

Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)

Kaila Catipon

★ ★ ★ ★ ★

If you’re looking for an unforgettable Italian dining experience, Antica Roma is the place to go! From start to finish, everything was absolutely phenomenal. We began with the bruschetta and eggplant lasagna as appetizers, and they were the perfect start—fresh, flavorful, and beautifully presented. The eggplant parm, which we later learned is the owner’s mother’s cherished recipe, was a heartwarming and delicious touch that made the meal feel even more special. My husband ordered the osso buco, and it was a masterpiece. The beef was so tender it practically melted in your mouth, and the flavors were impeccably balanced. The asparagus on the side was a delightful complement, cooked to perfection. I chose the pappardelle lobster, and wow—the sauce was nothing short of extraordinary. Every bite was a symphony of flavors, rich yet perfectly balanced, making it one of the best pasta dishes I’ve ever had. Our server, Stefano, was exceptional—attentive, friendly, and clearly passionate about ensuring guests have a wonderful experience. The ambiance at Antica Roma was warm and inviting, making us feel right at home. This restaurant is a gem, and we can’t wait to return! Highly recommended! 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟

Ivan Wolthuis

★ ★ ★ ★ ★

WOW! This is a GEM of a restaurant! High quality, authentic food in a cozy atmosphere. This is not Americanized Italian food. Pasta is made fresh every day. Ingredients are sourced directly from Italy. Our party of six ate appetizers, main course, and dessert, far too much, but the experience was just so enjoyable. Reminded my wife and I of our recent trip to Rome. We got to meet Roberto. Stefano, his son, was our waiter. Stefano made excellent recommendations. We will recommend this restaurant to our Utah friends, and we hope to come back (we’re out of state). Thanks Stefano!

Joy Beer

★ ★ ★ ★ ★

Just delightful. Visiting from out of town and I just wanted a truly lovely Italian meal. The focaccia Roma was the nicest I’ve ever had. A variety of sources to choose from to go with various homemade pastas. I had a combination meal with lobster and wide noodles in a creamy tomato sauce with a fish broth base delicate and delicious. I wanted to try a tomato sauce also so I asked for a side of spaghetti with a hearty red sauce (Amatriciana) that had sun-dried tomatoes and a nice little kick. Dessert was the Nutella tiramisu with an espresso. My waiter David guided me so kindly to the things I hoped to find today. Chef Roberto his grandfather came out to check on my experience so far and explained that the focaccia is made each day starting at 5am to allow it to rise twice. Thoroughly enjoyed this meal.

brandon jablonowski

★ ★ ★ ★ ★

We ordered the bruschetta which my wife loved, I'm not a big bread guy. I got Alfredo with chicken, to me the Alfredo sauce was too watery I prefer it to be thicker. It did have a good flavor but I prefer the Alfredo sauce to be the star of the show. I also am a guy who bought an entire cheese wheel from Italy for personal pleasure, I'm obsessed with Alfredo sauce. The noodles are phenomenal and just a perfect consistency. My wife got the pesto pasta I forgot the noodle type with sausage it was very tasty. For me I wouldn't come back but it was a nice location with a friendly server

Daniel Rizzolo

★ ★ ★ ★ ★

Spending the day/night in SLC. Craving some good, authentic Italian cuisine. Found it at this awesome spot right on their busy Main Street. Absolutely LOVED the food and friendly service. So many amazing offerings on the menu made it difficult to choose. I went with the pappardelle and bolognese (added meatballs). OUTSTANDING choice, especially the handmade pasta. Our server suggested the spinach ravioli with panna sauce to my wife. EXCELLENT recommendation! Both dishes were outstanding! We wholeheartedly recommend this gem to all Italian food lovers who spend an evening in beautiful Salt Lake City. SLC is lucky to have them. A special shout out to our server. She was AWESOME. We will definitely go back next time we return.

How to reach Antica Roma 🇮🇹 Italian Restaurant

Why rally at Antica Roma Italian Restaurant with your friends?

Gathering friends for a memorable outing often calls for a place that blends impeccable food, welcoming ambiance, and an environment conducive to sharing good times. Antica Roma Italian Restaurant, with its stellar rating of 4.7 out of 448 reviews, epitomizes this ideal spot. Located in the heart of Salt Lake City, this beloved Italian eatery offers an inviting atmosphere that feels both authentically Roman and warmly familiar—a perfect setting to reconnect and celebrate with friends. What truly sets Antica Roma apart is its dedication to freshly made, homemade pastas crafted right in front of guests by chef Roberto, a native of Rome. This interactive culinary experience not only indulges the palate but also sparks lively conversations and shared awe among diners. The staff’s friendliness and genuine Italian hospitality further enhance the experience, making everyone feel like part of a large Italian family. Whether you're seeking an intimate dinner or a lively get-together, Antica Roma promises to transform an ordinary evening into a heartfelt celebration of food, friendship, and Italian culture.

What activities make Antica Roma ideal for group meetups?

Antica Roma offers more than just dining; it provides a multifaceted experience ideal for group interactions. One standout activity is witnessing the preparation of homemade pastas; guests choose their pasta type and sauce, then watch Chef Roberto craft their meals with skill and passion right before their eyes. This live cooking experience transforms dining into performance art, creating natural conversation starters and shared moments of appreciation. The restaurant's strategic location across from the Eccles Theater makes it an excellent pre- or post-show dining destination for groups planning arts outings. The cozy, yet spacious interior allows groups to relax or celebrate without feeling cramped, fostering comfort and intimacy. The approachable and attentive staff make it easy to manage large parties, ensuring personalized service that keeps groups satisfied and stress-free. Together, these features turn Antica Roma into more than a restaurant—it’s a place where friends can bond over shared culinary adventures and enjoy quality time together.

What makes the food at Antica Roma special for group dining?

At the heart of Antica Roma’s appeal is its authentic Italian cuisine that feels crafted especially for communal enjoyment. The menu’s highlight is the homemade pasta, which is freshly made each day using high-quality ingredients, and guests have the unique option to customize their pasta types and sauces, tailoring meals to individual preferences within the group. This flexibility is ideal when dining with friends or family who may have differing tastes. Signature dishes like the butternut squash ravioli, praised as “the best and freshest,” and classic Italian entrees such as bruschetta and decadent panna cotta desserts foster a shared appreciation for genuine Italian flavors. Additionally, the wine list, featuring Italian vintages alongside French and California selections, offers group members the chance to toast and savor fine wines that complement their meals perfectly. The freshness and sincerity of the cuisine, combined with menu variety, ensure that everyone in the group finds their favorite dish, making for a collective dining experience that is as satisfying as it is memorable.

How does the ambiance at Antica Roma enhance group gatherings?

Ambiance plays a crucial role in how groups enjoy their time and Antica Roma excels at creating an authentic yet relaxed Italian atmosphere. The restaurant’s decor and setting channel the charm of Rome, enveloping diners in a warm, inviting environment that encourages conversation and laughter. The lively kitchen visible from the dining area adds to the sensory experience, with the captivating sight of pasta being hand-rolled reinforcing the authenticity and craft behind every dish. Soft lighting and tasteful Italian music contribute to a cozy, intimate vibe while still accommodating larger groups comfortably. Friendly and attentive staff treat diners like extended family, greeting tables with enthusiasm and occasionally serenading guests, which adds a joyful element perfect for celebrations or casual hangouts. The combination of all these elements helps groups feel immersed in an Italian dining experience that’s simultaneously elegant and approachable, making gatherings here both relaxed and special.

Why is Antica Roma’s location convenient for group meetups?

Antica Roma is centrally located in downtown Salt Lake City, positioning it as a convenient and accessible meeting point for groups coming from different parts of the city. Its proximity to cultural landmarks, such as the Eccles Theater, makes it ideal for coordinating dinner plans around performances or shows. Being in a lively area helps groups combine their dining experience with additional activities like a stroll downtown or visiting nearby bars and cafes for after-meal socializing. The restaurant’s visibility and easy access reduce logistical stress for group organizers, ensuring everyone arrives promptly and knows the location well. Additionally, downtown parking options and public transit accessibility make it straightforward for guests to commute, whether they’re driving or taking alternative transportation. The combination of a prime, vibrant setting and practical location details further strengthens Antica Roma’s appeal as a group gathering destination, blending great food with the excitement of an urban environment.

What kind of service can groups expect at Antica Roma?

Service at Antica Roma is characterized by warmth, responsiveness, and genuine care, qualities that are essential for a smooth and enjoyable group dining experience. The staff are not only knowledgeable about the menu but also passionate about sharing the story behind the dishes, especially the freshly made pasta process led by Chef Roberto. Groups benefit from attentive service that seamlessly manages everything from drink orders to accommodating special requests or dietary needs. Reviewers frequently highlight the friendly nature of the servers and their ability to engage diners without being intrusive, creating an atmosphere where guests feel valued and comfortable. For larger groups, this means assistance in coordinating plates, timely serving, and an overall flow that keeps the dining experience relaxing rather than rushed or chaotic. The dedication of the team ensures that every detail contributes to a memorable outing, allowing groups to stay focused on enjoying each other’s company.

How flexible is Antica Roma for different types of group occasions?

Whether you’re planning a casual meetup with friends, a family celebration, or a small party, Antica Roma accommodates a variety of group occasions with ease. The restaurant’s layout offers both intimate tables for smaller groups and space configurations that can be adapted for larger parties. The flexibility in menu choices, with options to customize pasta dishes and enjoy small plates or full meals, caters well to groups with varying appetites and preferences. The informal yet authentic Italian atmosphere means the venue is perfect for both relaxed, low-key gatherings and more festive celebrations such as birthdays or anniversaries. Additionally, Antica Roma’s staff are accustomed to handling special arrangements, from dietary adjustments to wine pairings, ensuring the group’s particular needs and preferences are met. This versatility provides confidence to organizers that their event, whether spontaneous or planned, will be handled professionally and with a personal touch.

What makes Antica Roma a standout Italian dining experience compared to other restaurants?

Antica Roma distinguishes itself through its rare combination of authenticity, personalized culinary craft, and a stellar reputation among locals and visitors alike. Unlike many Italian restaurants that rely heavily on pre-made or frozen pasta, Antica Roma’s emphasis on freshly hand-crafted pasta made on-site elevates the dining experience into an interactive and sensory delight. This focus on quality and tradition transports guests much closer to the true flavors of Rome than typical Italian eateries. The restaurant’s consistently high rating of 4.7, based on 448 reviews, reflects widespread appreciation for its delicious food, warm service, and lively ambiance. Moreover, its location and approachable yet elegant vibe invite both casual visitors and refined diners to enjoy a taste of Italy without pretense. This blend of authenticity, customer love, and dynamic atmosphere sets Antica Roma apart, making it a preferred destination for those wanting a genuine and memorable Italian meal.

How can Antica Roma enhance the social dynamic of a friends and family meetup?

Dining together is one of the most effective ways to strengthen bonds, and Antica Roma’s format supports this social dynamic beautifully. Watching pasta made fresh in front of you is a captivating experience that brings groups together through shared observation and mutual excitement. The menu’s customization options encourage discussion and discovery as friends compare choices and recommend favorites. The friendly and lively staff contribute lighthearted moments, often engaging with guests through Italian songs or cheerful banter, enhancing the collective mood. The intimate yet lively setting nurtures an environment where conversations flow seamlessly over plates of rich, comforting food and glasses of wine. By combining sensory enjoyment with genuine interaction and attentive hospitality, Antica Roma creates an atmosphere where connections deepen naturally, making each meetup not just a meal but a cherished social event.

Don't just take our word for it. Check out these other websites for more info on the Antica Roma 🇮🇹 Italian Restaurant

• https://www.tripadvisor.com/Restaurant_Review-g187791-d8511841-Reviews-Antica_Roma-Rome_Lazio.html
• https://www.tripadvisor.com/Restaurant_Review-g60922-d26982828-Reviews-Antica_Roma-Salt_Lake_City_Utah.html
• https://www.tripadvisor.com/Restaurant_Review-g187791-d10202420-Reviews-Antica_Roma-Rome_Lazio.html