I’m Meghan. You can think of me as your new friend in Rome! When you travel, having a friend “on site” is the best way to see a new place like a local – and that’s exactly what My Friend in Italy is all about. As your personal food and beverage guide, my priority is to help you experience the most authentic version of the Eternal City, steering you far away from the tourist traps and social media scams. On a tour tailored to your taste and pace, you’ll get to know the city and its people through a culinary and cultural lens. I’m here to answer your questions, provide insider info about the sites along the way, and offer personal recommendations for shopping, feasting, sipping, and relaxing like a Roman.

Rome has a beautiful way of naturally connecting people – typically over a plate of pasta and glass of wine. This way of life is the very inspiration behind My Friend in Italy. I’ve spent years advising people on local eateries and shops – even calling my favorite restaurants to make people’s reservations to ensure they have at least one stellar dinner or aperitivo during their time here. Why? Because I’ve seen firsthand how many get lured into tourist traps by local acchiappini – those pesky “snatchers” or “catchers” who cajole you into a seat to eat the “best” worst plate of frozen pasta in town.

I used to be one of these acchiappini. At the time I didn’t know any better, but I’ve learned my lesson! Now, I vow to never let another friend or client eat or drink poorly in this city. You came to Italy for a silky-smooth plate of carbonara made with farm-fresh eggs – not a TV dinner.

During our time together, you’ll get a sense of what Rome is all about – and that’s a guarantee. I’ll share my knowledge and give you tips on where to go beyond our time together to ensure the rest of your time here is as fulfilling and authentic as possible.

It all started when I was 15 with the mail delivery of my first Italian grammar guide. I’d spend study hall hour thumbing through the guide, muttering each word, trying to get the pronunciation right: “Mi chiamo Meghan: “Mee kee-AH-moh” not “mee CHEE-ah-mo.” I even got a pen-pal from northern Italy on a site for kids looking to begin sharing about what daily life is like in their country. Growing up in a small Midwestern town of 5,600 people, I was so intrigued by what lay on the other side of the Atlantic – especially the country where my own family traces its roots.

My university years led to three minors in Roman History, Italian, and Rome Studies, and eventually – as with all roads – they led me to Rome itself. I spent my first nine months here as an undergraduate, and my post-graduate studies brought me back in 2016. After what felt like a lifetime – nine years to be exact – I’m elated to say I will soon be graduating with another bachelor’s degree and a master’s in communications. This city has become my home, and I want to share it with you.