This café gets its name because a Greek opened its doors in the 18th century. The Antico Caffe Greco became a favorite meeting spot for famous writers and composers. Goethe, Stendhal, Byron and Keats are among the names that can be associated with the café. Enjoy a cup of coffee or a cappuccino while you revel in the coffee shop's cultural history. BUS: 81, 117, 119, 590 or 628. METRO: Spagna

Two English women opened Babington's in 1893 order to give homesick visiting Brits a taste of home. It is located in a prime location at the foot of the Spanish steps. You can order an expensive cup of tea along with scones or other English treats.

Tucked into the far end of the lovely Piazza di Pietra, this café is the creation of a small Italian production company. Both fun and serious, the venue is a place for film lovers, as well as gourmets. The wine selection is decent and the food always freshly prepared. The café hosts book readings and other cultural events. Caffé Fandango has a small screening room in the back.

The elegant but approachable Ciampini is an extremely popular place with locals. Located not far from the Pantheon and off the popular shopping street of Via del Corso, Ciampini still remains undiscovered among tourists. Traditional outdoor seating is available under umbrellas. Before lunch have a frothy cappuccino and delicious cornetto, for lunch try a panino or pasta salad followed by the home-made gelato. Another Ciampini with unbeatable views of Rome is open mid-March to mid-November and is located on Viale Trinità dei Monti above the Spanish Steps.

Ciuri Ciuri is an ideal stop after (or during) a day of touring. In the hip Monti neighborhood, this new Sicilian delicacy shop offers some of the best pastry in town. From marzipan cookies to Modica chocolate and ice cream, Ciuri Ciuri satisfies even the sweetest tooth. The Sicilian chef works in the back of the shop; from noon to 2pm, he bakes delicious arancini (fried rice balls with various savory sauces).