Vatican Denies it Will Open Restaurant on Terrace of St. Peter’s Basilica

ACI Prensa Staff, 30 January, 2026 / 2:37 AM

The Vatican has said it is considering enlarging a small coffee and drinks bar already present on the terrace of St. Peter’s Basilica and has denied reports it plans to open a restaurant atop the historic church, according to Vatican News.

Italian newspaper Il Messaggero claimed earlier this week that renovations are being carried out to open a “bistro” on the roof area of the Vatican basilica.

“To cope with the increased number of visitors, an extension of the terrace area accessible to pilgrims is being considered,” the basilica communications office said, according to Vatican News.

There is already a small café serving coffee, drinks, and gelato on the roof of St. Peter’s Basilica. Above the church and below the dome, the bar is situated at a halfway point for pilgrims climbing the stairs to visit St. Peter’s cupola.

“Some spaces would be made available to expand the small refreshment area already in place, with a sober style appropriate to the context, respectful of the sacredness of the place, and meeting the needs of pilgrims,” the basilica said.

The basilica’s statement claims such an expansion “would reduce the concentration of visitors in the basilica and promote a more contemplative atmosphere.”