Have you ever wanted to throw a party so grand that even a Roman emperor would be jealous? Picture this: your guests lounging like senators, sipping honeyed wine, and indulging in dishes straight from the kitchens of ancient Rome. Whether you’re celebrating a birthday, hosting a historical dinner, or just looking for an excuse to eat like a gladiator, a Roman-themed party is your chance to bring the splendor of the past into the present.
The Romans didn’t just eat—they feasted. Their banquets were filled with rich flavors, theatrical entertainment, and an undeniable flair for the extravagant. And the best part? You don’t need a palace on the Palatine Hill to recreate the experience. With the right food, decor, and entertainment, you can transform your home into a Roman villa fit for a bacchanalian evening of indulgence.
From savory Parthian Chicken and honey-glazed Libum to rustic serving ware and traditional tunics, every detail matters in recreating the essence of Roman hospitality. Below, I’ll walk you through 10 essentials to throw a feast that would make even Julius Caesar RSVP “yes”—including authentic recipes and must-have party pieces to set the perfect scene.
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1. Roman-Inspired Menu with Authentic Recipes
No Roman-themed party is complete without a feast worthy of a senator’s table. Ancient Romans indulged in a wide variety of foods, from richly spiced meats and savory bread to sweet honeyed desserts. While some of their more extravagant dishes—like stuffed dormice or peacock—might be a bit impractical today, you can still create an authentic Roman menu that’s delicious and accessible for modern guests.
Start by serving a variety of small appetizers, hearty main courses, and indulgent desserts, just as the Romans would have done at their banquets. Here are some must-have historical dishes to feature at your party:
Appetizers (Gustatio – The First Course)
The Romans began their feasts with light bites meant to stimulate the appetite. Include:
- Olives & Cheese – A simple platter of goat cheese, aged Pecorino, and assorted olives is a perfect nod to ancient Roman snacks.
- Gustum de Praecoquis (Stewed Apricots) – A sweet and tangy starter that combines apricots, honey, and wine for a rich depth of flavor.
- Moretum (Roman Herb Cheese Spread) – A classic Roman dish made from cheese, garlic, and herbs, typically served with rustic bread.
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Main Course (Prima Mensa – The Hearty Centerpiece)
This is where you get to showcase bold Roman flavors, featuring meats cooked with spices, herbs, and sweet-savory combinations.
- Parthian Chicken – A spiced, wine-infused dish inspired by Rome’s culinary exchanges with the Parthian Empire. It’s seasoned with cumin, asafoetida, and black pepper, giving it a bold, aromatic kick.
- Lucanian Sausages – A flavorful, spiced pork sausage that was enjoyed across the empire, often grilled or served with mustard.
- Glirarium-Style Mushrooms (Stuffed Mushrooms) – While the Romans enjoyed stuffing dormice, these herb-stuffed mushrooms provide a modern, delicious alternative.
- Puls (Roman Porridge) – A staple food of Roman soldiers, made with grains, olive oil, and a dash of honey or cheese for added flavor.
Desserts (Secunda Mensa – The Sweet Finish)
Romans loved sweets, often using honey, dates, nuts, and fruits to create indulgent treats.
- Libum (Roman Cheesecake) – A light, honey-drizzled cheesecake made with fresh cheese and baked on bay leaves. Traditionally offered to the gods, but perfect for any guest!
- Dolcia Domestica (Honey-Stuffed Dates) – A sweet gladiator-era treat, these dates are stuffed with walnuts, pine nuts, and black pepper, then coated in warm honey.
- Baked Pears with Honey and Pepper – A simple yet flavorful dish made by roasting pears with honey, black pepper, and a splash of wine.
2. Drink Like a Roman
A proper Roman-themed party isn’t complete without authentic drinks to accompany the feast. The Romans had a unique approach to drinking, with wine playing a central role in both daily life and extravagant banquets. However, unlike modern wine culture, Romans almost never drank their wine straight—it was often mixed with water, honey, or spices to enhance flavor and reduce its potency. Whether you want to toast like a senator or sip like a soldier, here are the essential Roman drinks to serve at your gathering.
Roman Wine Varieties – The Heart of the Feast
Wine was the drink of choice in Rome, but it was rarely consumed in its raw form. Instead, Romans diluted, spiced, and sweetened their wines to match different occasions and social settings. Here are some traditional Roman-style wines to serve:
- Muslin Wine– A favorite among nobility and elites, this was a sweet, golden wine infused with honey, black pepper, and cinnamon. Served warm or chilled, it’s the perfect festive drink for your Roman banquet.
- Posca (The Drink of Soldiers) – Unlike the elite who drank fine wines, Roman soldiers and lower-class citizens drank Posca, a mixture of water, vinegar, and herbs. It was refreshing, hydrating, and surprisingly drinkable—a great conversation starter at your party!
- Faustian Falernian (Aged Roman-Style Wine) – Falernian wine was considered the most prestigious vintage in Rome, enjoyed by emperors and poets alike. You can mimic it by serving a bold, high-alcohol white wine, slightly oxidized for an aged taste.
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Beyond Wine – Other Roman Beverages
While wine was the dominant beverage in Rome, other drinks were enjoyed, especially among those who couldn’t afford fine vintages. Consider offering these non-alcoholic alternatives:
- Herb-Infused Grape Juice – A great non-alcoholic alternative, made by infusing grape juice with mint, rosemary, and citrus zest for a refreshing taste.
- Honey-Sweetened Water (Aqua Mellis) – A simple yet delicious drink made by mixing water with honey and a touch of cinnamon.
- Barley Water (Kykeon-Inspired Drink) – A Roman take on the ancient Greek Kykeon, this is a lightly fermented barley and honey drink, great for a rustic, earthy beverage.
3. Proper Roman Attire – Togas and Tunics
If you really want to transport your guests back to Ancient Rome, the right attire is essential. Romans took their clothing very seriously, and what you wore reflected your social status, wealth, and role in society. Whether you want to dress as an imperial senator, a gladiator fresh from the Colosseum, or a noble Roman matron, getting the right outfit will instantly make your party more immersive and fun.
The great thing is that Roman attire is simple to recreate—most guests can throw together a basic toga or tunic with things they already own. But for those who want to go all out, you can find ready-made Roman costumes that will take your party to the next level.
Togas: The Iconic Roman Garment
When you think of Ancient Rome, you probably picture men draped in flowing white togas. But did you know that togas weren’t for everyone? In fact, they were only worn by Roman citizens—meaning that slaves, soldiers, and even lower-class Romans weren’t allowed to wear them.
If you want to wear a toga the proper Roman way, here’s what you need to know:
- Toga Virilis (Plain White Toga) – Worn by adult male citizens as everyday formal wear.
- Toga Praetexta (White with a Purple Border) – Reserved for senators and magistrates, a great choice if you want to dress as an important Roman official.
- Toga Picta (Purple with Gold Embroidery) – The most extravagant toga, worn by generals and emperors during grand celebrations. If you want to be the Caesar of the party, this is your outfit!
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How to Make a DIY Toga (No Sewing Required!)
If guests don’t have Roman attire, they can easily make a toga at home with:
- A large bed sheet (preferably white, cream, or red).
- Safety pins or a belt to secure the draping.
- Gold accessories like a laurel wreath or armband.
Simply drape the sheet over one shoulder, wrapping it around the body, and pin it in place for an instant Roman look!
Tunics: The Everyday Roman Outfit
For guests who don’t want to fuss with togas, a tunica (tunic) is a perfectly historical alternative. Unlike togas, tunics were worn by everyone—men, women, slaves, and even children—making them a versatile and easy option for your party.
- Men’s Tunic – A simple knee-length tunic, often tied with a belt. Higher-status men wore tunics with colored stripes (called clavi).
- Women’s Tunic (Stola) – A long, flowing dress often worn with a palla (a shawl or cloak). Roman women also styled their hair in elaborate curls and braids for special occasions.
- Soldier’s Tunic – A shorter, more fitted tunic in red or brown, worn with a leather belt and sandals—a great option if someone wants to dress as a legionary or gladiator.
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Accessories to Complete the Look
Once your guests have their togas or tunics, it’s time to add the finishing touches to their outfits. Accessories played a huge role in Roman fashion, and these details can really elevate the look:
- Laurel Wreaths – Symbol of victory and power, worn by emperors, generals, and poets.
- Leather Sandals (Caligae or Soleae) – Romans didn’t wear modern shoes! Flat leather sandals or gladiator sandals complete the outfit.
- Gold & Bronze Jewelry – Roman men and women wore rings, brooches, and arm cuffs to show off their wealth.
- Pallas & Cloaks – Roman women often draped themselves in colorful shawls, while men sometimes wore cloaks called lacernae for extra style.
- Roman Helmets or Gladiator Gear – If someone wants to dress as a warrior, they can wear a replica Roman helmet, leather armor, or even a toy sword.
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4. A Roman-Style Dining Setup – Reclining & Low Tables
The Triclinium – The Heart of Roman Dining
The triclinium, the formal Roman dining room, was designed around a three-couch arrangement, forming a U-shape around a low table (mensa) in the center. Each couch (lectus) accommodated multiple diners who reclined on their left elbows while using their right hands to eat. The positioning of guests followed a strict social hierarchy, with the most important guest (hospes) seated at the highest-status couch (lectus summus) and the host (dominus) at the lectus imus.
- Triclinium couches (lecti) were often cushioned and decorated with intricate carvings or inlays.
- Tables (mensae) were made of wood, marble, or even precious materials like ivory.
- Dining arrangement reflected hierarchy, reinforcing relationships among elites.
While the triclinium was reserved for the wealthy, common Romans dined in simpler settings, sitting on benches or stools around basic wooden tables.
Reclining to Dine – A Sign of Status and Leisure
Unlike modern dining customs, where sitting at a table is the norm, reclining while eating symbolized luxury and refinement in Roman society. This practice was largely reserved for elite men, while women, children, and lower-class individuals typically sat upright.
Reclining had both practical and symbolic significance:
- It allowed for longer, more relaxed meals, encouraging conversation, entertainment, and philosophical discussions.
- It was associated with Greek influences, which Romans admired for their sophisticated approach to leisure.
- It distinguished the upper classes from laborers and the working poor, who typically ate sitting or standing.
Despite its elite status, some wealthier women, particularly during the later empire, adopted the practice of reclining at feasts, challenging traditional norms.
Tableware & Utensils – Dining Without Forks
Roman dining relied on a variety of serving and eating vessels, but forks were notably absent. Instead, meals were consumed using:
- Spoons (cochlearia) – Used for soups, sauces, and eggs.
- Knives (cultri) – Primarily for cutting food before it was served.
- Hands and Bread – Romans commonly used bread as a tool to scoop up food, similar to how some cultures use flatbreads today.
Serving platters, bowls, and drinking vessels were often made from terra sigillata (a fine red pottery), glass, bronze, or silver, depending on wealth.
5. Classical Music & Ambiance
Roman Music: The Soundtrack of the Ancient World
Roman music was a blend of Greek, Etruscan, and Middle Eastern influences, often featuring flutes, lyres, harps, tambourines, and even early forms of trumpets and organs. While we don’t have surviving Roman compositions, historians and musicians have reconstructed what it likely sounded like based on art, writings, and archaeological findings.
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What to Play at Your Roman Party?
For an authentic musical backdrop, consider using:
- Ancient Roman-inspired instrumental music – Look for playlists featuring lyres, pan flutes, and drums to recreate the sound of a Roman banquet.
- Mediterranean folk music – Traditional Greek, Italian, and Middle Eastern melodies are similar to what Romans might have enjoyed.
- Gregorian chants and early medieval compositions – Though from a later period, they capture the mystical, atmospheric essence of Roman religious music.
- Orchestral and cinematic soundtracks – Music from movies like Gladiator, Spartacus, or Rome: Total War can set a dramatic, immersive tone.
Lighting & Decor: Setting the Scene
Romans loved warm, ambient lighting, mostly from oil lamps, torches, and candlelight. Their homes and banquet halls were adorned with frescoes, mosaics, and luxurious drapery, giving them a regal yet intimate feel.
To recreate this atmosphere, use:
- Candle-lit lanterns & torches – Place them around the room for an authentic glow.
- Warm golden or red lighting – Use LED bulbs to mimic firelight without the fire hazard.
- Ivy and grapevine garlands – Romans decorated their banquet halls with greenery, vines, and fruit to create a lush setting.
- Gold and marble accents – Drape your tables in red and gold fabrics, and use faux marble statues or busts for decoration.
6. Gladiator Games & Roman Entertainment
A Roman feast wasn’t just about the food—it was a spectacle, filled with music, games, performances, and lively competitions. Whether in the Colosseum, a villa banquet hall, or the bustling streets of Rome, entertainment played a key role in Roman society. A true Roman-themed party needs more than just a delicious spread; it should immerse guests in the thrill of the empire, from gladiatorial contests to dice games and dramatic recitations.
To bring the excitement of Ancient Rome to life, incorporate interactive games, historical performances, and fun challenges that will keep your guests entertained long after the last toast.
Gladiator Games – The Ultimate Roman Spectacle
Gladiators were the superstars of Ancient Rome, drawing massive crowds to the Colosseum and amphitheaters across the empire. While you may not have a full-scale arena (or an emperor giving a dramatic thumbs-down), you can still recreate the thrill of gladiatorial combat in a fun and party-friendly way.
How to Stage a Safe & Fun Gladiator Battle
- Foam Sword Duels – Set up a sparring ring where guests can challenge each other with foam swords or inflatable gladiator weapons. First to land three hits wins!
- Battle of the Minds: Host a Roman Empire-themed trivia challenge to determine the best history buff of your party.
- Arm Wrestling Tournament – Test your strength and honor like a true Roman warrior.
- Obstacle Course or Tug of War – Mimic gladiatorial training by setting up physical challenges for guests to compete in teams.
- Dramatic ‘Thumbs Up or Down’ Challenges – Have a host (yourself or the “emperor”) decide the fate of “battlers” with a classic thumbs-up or thumbs-down—all in good fun, of course!
Roman Dice & Gambling Games
Romans loved games of chance, often betting gold, food, or even their freedom on dice rolls. These games were popular in taverns, military camps, and private parties. Here are a few easy options to play:
- Tesserae (Roman Dice Game) – Use three six-sided dice and let guests bet tokens or coins on the highest roll.
- Ludus Latrunculorum (Roman Chess) – A strategic board game, similar to chess or checkers, played by soldiers and intellectuals.
- Knucklebones (Tali) – The Roman version of jacks, played with sheep bones or wooden replicas. Players tossed four pieces and counted how they landed for points.
- Wine Wagering – Have guests predict how many sips they’ll need to finish a cup of wine—whoever guesses correctly wins!
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7. Decor Inspired by Ancient Roman Villas
To fully immerse your guests in the grandeur of Ancient Rome, your space should reflect the opulence, elegance, and artistry of a Roman villa. The Romans were known for their lavish interiors, stunning frescoes, and grand architecture, and their banquet halls were designed to impress. Whether you’re setting up a formal triclinium (dining room) or a rustic Roman courtyard, the right decor elements will transport your party from the modern world to the height of the empire.
With rich fabrics, candlelit ambiance, classical statues, and fruit-laden tables, you can recreate the sumptuous atmosphere of an elite Roman gathering. Here’s how to bring Ancient Rome to life in your home or event space.
Setting the Scene: Transforming Your Space into a Roman Villa
Ancient Roman homes, especially those of the wealthy elite, were grand and elaborately decorated. The most important spaces for entertaining included:
- The Triclinium (Dining Room) – Where Romans lounged and feasted, typically adorned with mosaics, marble, and frescoed walls.
- The Atrium (Entry Hall) – The grand entrance, often with a small fountain, statues, and columns.
- The Peristyle (Garden Courtyard) – An open-air space surrounded by columns and greenery, perfect for a relaxed, elegant atmosphere.
- Draped fabrics in red, white, and gold for a regal look.
- Roman columns and statues (foam or cardboard options work well).
- Fruit-filled centerpieces with grapes, figs, and pomegranates to mimic Roman feasts.
- Candle-lit lanterns and torches for warm, flickering light.
👉 Amazon Favorite: A bust of Augustus Caesar, the perfect decoration for your Roman Feast!
8. Roman-Style Drinking Games
No Roman feast was complete without plenty of wine and spirited games. The Romans didn’t just drink for pleasure—drinking was a social ritual, often accompanied by friendly competition, philosophical debates, and raucous entertainment. Whether at an elite banquet or a casual tavern, Romans found ways to turn drinking into an art form, creating games that tested skill, wit, and endurance.
If you want to bring the fun and revelry of a Roman convivium (drinking party) to your event, incorporating historical drinking games will keep guests entertained long after the feast has ended.
The Most Famous Roman Drinking Game: Kottabos
Kottabos, a game originally from Greece, was extremely popular at Roman drinking parties. It required both precision and a bit of luck, as players flicked the last drops of their wine at a target.
How to Play Kottabos at Your Party:
- Set up a target – Traditionally, Romans aimed at a small dish balanced on a stand. You can use a small cup, a lightweight plate, or even a modern ring toss setup.
- Players sit in a semi-circle, reclining as the Romans did while drinking.
- Each player takes a sip of wine, leaving just a few drops in their cup.
- Flick the remaining wine toward the target—whoever knocks it over wins a prize (or another drink!).
9. A Roman Dessert Platter
No Roman feast is complete without a decadent selection of sweets, and while Ancient Rome didn’t have chocolate or refined sugar, they made up for it with honey, dried fruits, nuts, and rich cheeses. A well-curated Roman dessert platter is the perfect way to end your feast on a high note, offering guests a taste of the empire’s most beloved indulgences.
Roman desserts weren’t just for satisfying a sweet tooth—they were often used as offerings to the gods, symbols of wealth, and even energy-boosting snacks for gladiators. Whether you’re serving honey-soaked pastries, spiced fruits, or nut-filled delicacies, a dessert spread will impress your guests and transport them straight to a Roman banquet hall.
What Did Romans Eat for Dessert?
While Ancient Rome lacked modern cakes and chocolate, they had a wide array of simple yet flavorful desserts, often made with ingredients like honey, figs, dates, nuts, and cheese. Here’s how to put together an authentic Roman dessert platter featuring some of the most popular sweets of the time.
1. Libum (Roman Honey Cheesecake)
A soft, pillowy cheesecake made from fresh cheese and baked on bay leaves, libum was often offered to the gods before being served at feasts. It’s mildly sweet, with a delicate honey glaze.
Serve with: A drizzle of honey and crushed walnuts or almonds for extra texture.
2. Dolcia Domestica (Honey-Glazed Stuffed Dates)
A favorite snack of gladiators, these dates are stuffed with walnuts and pine nuts, sprinkled with black pepper, and then coated in warm honey.
Pair with: A side of fresh figs or a glass of spiced wine for contrast.
3. Baked Pears with Honey and Pepper
Romans loved the balance of sweet and spicy, often pairing fruit with black pepper and honey. These roasted pears are lightly caramelized and infused with cinnamon and wine.
Best served with: A dollop of ricotta or fresh goat cheese for a creamy contrast.
4. Spiced Roman Almond Cakes
Small almond-based cakes flavored with cinnamon, black pepper, and honey, these were often served at elite banquets as a final indulgence.
Try serving with: A cup of warm mulsum (spiced honey wine).
5. Sesame & Poppy Seed Biscuits
Romans loved crunchy textures, and these light, nutty biscuits made with sesame seeds, poppy seeds, and honey were a common snack at feasts.
Perfect with: A side of fresh grapes or pomegranate seeds.
10. Send Guests Home with Roman-Themed Favors
The best way to ensure your Roman-themed party is truly unforgettable is by sending your guests home with a piece of Ancient Rome to remember it by. In Roman times, hosts of lavish feasts and banquets often gifted their guests with small tokens, whether it was a satchel of spices, a vial of perfume, or a simple loaf of bread. Keeping with tradition, you can offer thoughtful, historically inspired party favors that will make your guests feel like they’ve just stepped out of a grand Roman villa.
These small but meaningful gifts will not only extend the experience beyond the party but also add a fun, educational twist to your event. Whether you opt for edible treats, decorative keepsakes, or interactive take-home activities, these Roman-themed favors will leave a lasting impression.
Mini Jars of Honey or Olive Oil
Romans adored honey and olive oil, using them in everything from cooking to skincare. Small, elegant jars of locally sourced honey or infused olive oil make both a practical and historically accurate favor.
Packaging Tip: Tie a small ribbon or parchment tag around each jar with a Latin inscription like “Dulcis vita” (Sweet Life) or “Ex animo” (From the Heart).
Ancient Roman Coin Replicas
Roman coins were more than currency—they often featured emperors, gods, and mythological figures, making them great keepsakes for history lovers. Gifting guests with replica Roman coins can make them feel like they’ve stepped back in time.
Fun Idea: Have a small “Roman fortune” written on scrolls, instructing guests to flip their coin for an answer from the gods (heads = good fortune, tails = more wine is needed).
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Satchels of Roman Spices or Herbs
Spices were a valuable commodity in Ancient Rome, used to flavor foods, create perfumes, and even in medicine. Small pouches of Roman spice blends, such as cumin, black pepper, coriander, or cinnamon, are a simple yet unique party favor.
👉 How to Present: Package in small muslin bags with a note detailing the spice’s historical significance.
Bringing Rome to Life: A Feast Worthy of the Ancients
Hosting a Roman-themed party is more than just a gathering—it’s an immersive journey into the grandeur of the ancient world. From the sumptuous feasts and flowing wine to the lavish decor, spirited entertainment, and historical games, every element of your event can transport guests to the days of emperors, gladiators, and legendary banquets. Whether you’re indulging in Parthian Chicken, sipping mulsum, or testing your luck in a game of Kottabos, each detail adds to the authenticity of the experience.
But the magic of Ancient Rome wasn’t just in its luxury—it was in the sense of community, storytelling, and celebration that defined Roman life. The best parties were about more than just food and drink; they were a place to share ideas, forge friendships, and create lasting memories. By embracing the traditions of Rome, you’re not just throwing a party—you’re reviving history, one toast at a time.
As your guests leave, laden with Roman favors and tales of their night in antiquity, they’ll carry with them a piece of history—a reminder of the epic evening spent reveling like the citizens of the empire. So, raise your goblet one last time, bid your guests ‘Vale et bonam fortunam!’ (Farewell and good luck!), and bask in the success of a celebration worthy of Rome itself.
Now, go forth, host your feast, and may the spirit of Ancient Rome live on in every bite, sip, and story told!