Nestled between the Etowah, Oostanaula, and Coosa rivers, Rome, GA’s Between the Rivers neighborhood pulses with historic character—and an incredible food scene that makes it a must-visit for both locals and day-trippers. From upscale dining to cozy coffee shops, food trucks to old-school bakeries, this heart of Rome offers a vibrant, walkable culinary journey at any time of day. Here’s your inside guide to the standout flavors, hidden gems, and can’t-miss clusters that define Between the Rivers.
Where Foodies Flock: Downtown’s Main Street Magic
The cornerstone of Between the Rivers’ dining scene sits along Broad Street, Rome’s picturesque main stretch. Strolling the historic downtown, you’re never far from your next foodie adventure.
- Harvest Moon Café (234 Broad St.)
- Cuisine: Southern staples with flair, American classics
- Price: $$
- Why Go: This lively, locally-owned favorite doles out farm-to-table comfort food in a rustically chic setting. Their fried green tomatoes and shrimp & grits are legendary, but the rotating seasonal specials like blackberry pork chops make every visit unique.
- Honeymoon Bakery (228 Broad St.)
- Cuisine: Bakery & café
- Price: $
- Why Go: For sweet treats and irresistible custom cakes, this bakery is the neighborhood’s go-to. But don’t miss their decadent breakfast pastries or the lunchtime focaccia sandwiches—best enjoyed with sidewalk seating and a cappuccino.
- The RFP Food Truck Park (near 1st Ave. & W 3rd St.)
- Cuisine: Varies—BBQ, tacos, gourmet burgers, and more
- Price: $
- Why Go: Clustered near the rivers’ edge, this rotating park of food trucks creates a pop-up foodie festival atmosphere. Local favorites include Tex’s Tacos for zesty southwestern bites and Pita Pit for Mediterranean wraps on the go.
Cozy Corners & Gourmet Experiences
Alongside Broad, the winding side streets and tucked-away storefronts offer plenty of surprises.
- F+D (Food + Drink) on Broad (425 Broad St.)
- Cuisine: Global bistro with Southern infusion
- Price: $$
- Why Go: F+D mixes creative international flavors with local favorites. Their Korean fried chicken, lobster grilled cheese, and handcrafted cocktails headline a menu perfect for adventurous palates.
- Jerusalem Grill (440 Broad St.)
- Cuisine: Middle Eastern
- Price: $
- Why Go: This small, family-run spot serves crave-worthy gyros, hummus, shawarma, and baklava. With plenty of vegetarian options and heartfelt service, it’s a hidden gem for healthy-eating foodies.
- Mellow Mushroom (238 Broad St.)
- Cuisine: Pizza, American
- Price: $$
- Why Go: For flaky, stone-baked dough with a hint of sweetness, Mellow Mushroom is a favorite for families and friends seeking creative pies (try the Holy Shiitake) and a fun, funky backdrop.
Coffee Culture & Sweet Escapes
Need a caffeine fix? The Between the Rivers neighborhood has you covered, from sunrise flat whites to lazy afternoon lattés.
- Swift & Finch Coffee (600 Broad St.)
- Cuisine: Café & bakery
- Price: $
- Why Go: This local roaster and barista haven has a loyal following for its smooth pour-overs, inventive seasonal drinks, and inviting, artsy vibe. The homemade cinnamon rolls are huge and beloved.
- Dosi on Broad (411 Broad St.)
- Cuisine: Korean-inspired desserts, bubble tea
- Price: $
- Why Go: Dosi is the neighborhood’s hidden sweet shop. Their bingsu snow ices, bubble teas, and mochi donuts offer something unique—plus a cute, Instagram-worthy interior.
Classic Southern Fare & Modern Twists
Rome’s food scene wouldn’t be complete without some down-home comfort, and Between the Rivers delivers in spades.
- Harvest Oven (402 Broad St.)
- Cuisine: Southern eats, bakery
- Price: $
- Why Go: A perfect spot for a biscuit breakfast or southern-style lunch plate. Their rotating pies and cornbread are standouts. Check their chalkboard for daily specials.
- Curlee’s Fish House & Grill (106 Broad St.)
- Cuisine: Seafood, American
- Price: $$
- Why Go: Southern-fried catfish, hush puppies, and hearty seafood platters are the draw at this very local haunt. Portions are generous, and the vibe is friendly—perfect for casual group dinners.
Special Occasion Dining & Wine Bars
Celebrating a big event or just looking to linger over a glass of wine? Between the Rivers has options both elegant and relaxed:
- Bella Roma Grill (770 Braves Blvd NE)
- Cuisine: Italian, steakhouse
- Price: $$$
- Why Go: This off-Broad spot is known for tender steaks, fresh pasta, and an impressive wine list—plus a sophisticated yet welcoming atmosphere.
- Dark Side of the Moon (236 Broad St.)
- Cuisine: Wine bar
- Price: $$
- Why Go: Sip your way through an expertly curated wine list and classic small plates. The ambiance is low-lit and intimate, great for catching up with friends or a romantic evening.
Culinary Traditions, Markets & Events
Beyond restaurants, Between the Rivers celebrates its food heritage with seasonal events and markets:
- Rome Downtown Saturday Farmers Market (400 Block of Broad St.)
- Why Go: From local produce to artisan breads and homemade cheese, the Saturday market is a mini food festival. Meet local growers, pick up picnic supplies, or enjoy ready-to-eat eats like wood-fired pizza.
- Annual Rome Beer Festival (Heritage Park, just north of Broad St.)
- This lively event, typically held in autumn, brings together craft brews and food trucks for a laid-back afternoon on the grass.
Eating Your Way Between the Rivers
Whether you’re craving coffee, pizza, soul food, or something just a little different, Between the Rivers’ dining scene is bursting with personality. The walkability makes for easy food-hopping, letting you grab a sweet bun at Honeymoon Bakery with your morning coffee, enjoy lunch from a riverside food truck, and end the evening sipping craft cocktails or sharing small plates in a cozy wine bar. Don’t be afraid to duck into a side street or check out a busy patio—some of the best eats aren’t always on the main drag.
Between the Rivers isn’t just the heart of Rome—it’s a beating pulse of local flavor, Southern hospitality, and inventive eats. Next time you’re hungry for a culinary adventure, let these neighborhood gems lead the way.