Who serves the best pizza in Rome? We came, we saw, we devoured. After many trips to the Eternal City from our entire staff, here are some of the best pizza places in Rome, Italy.
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Roman-Style Pizza is Square, not Round
Contrary to most traditionally held beliefs about pizza, however in Italy, there are four distinct styles of pizza for which two are Roman. Both are rectangular in shape, one with rounded edges cooked as a whole in the bottom of the oven.
The more unique Roman-style pizza is baked on a cookie sheet and tends to have more toppings. This style is on display par-baked on the counter behind glass. The pizzeria will cut a size to your preference, then weigh it and charge accordingly, before heating it again in the oven. Some love Pizza Al Taglio, others prefer something more mild. Try Pizzeria “Lo Scricciolo” Roma.
Learning to Make Pizza Near Piazza Novona
Near Piazza Novona, a famous square in the heart of Rome, is Osteria Pizzeria Pasquino. In addition to great pizza cooked in a wood-fired stone hearth at the back of the restaurant in an open kitchen, the restaurant is also home to pizza and pasta cooking lessons. Their trademark is a Roman-style pizza dough cooked in a traditional Neapolitan pizza format. Traditionally, that’s tomato sauce on dough with buffalo mozzarella and a drizzle of olive oil over the top. As you’ll find everywhere in Italy, pizza is a knife-and-fork affair.
Red Sauce Special
Wow – what a pie! Lantica Pizzeria Da Michele (Michele’s old pizzeria) pushes pizzas out quickly with a very hot oven. The crust didn’t quite fit on the 12″ plates. Their process quickly cooks the light dough, just charring the edges and crisping the bottom but not enough to burn the cheese. It’s perfection on a plate (and hanging over it.)
Da Michele specializes in a sauce only pizza (not pictured) that makes it one of the best in the city.
Others That Qualify
The three above are our favorites but the following are also favorites:
- Ai Marmi – For paper-thin pies try Ai Marmi: Viale di Trastevere, 53, 00153 Roma RM, Italy
- Pasticceria Panificio Panella Roma – 59, Via Merulana, 00185 Roma RM, Italy
Final Thoughts
In wrapping up our delicious journey through Rome’s best pizza places, it’s clear that the Eternal City is not just about historic monuments and art; it’s also a paradise for pizza lovers. From the crispy thin crusts of Roman pizza to the rich and flavorful toppings, each pizzeria we visited offered something unique and mouth-watering. Whether you’re a fan of classic Margherita or adventurous with your pizza toppings, Rome has a slice for every taste.
What stands out most in Rome’s pizza scene is the dedication to quality and tradition. These pizzerias aren’t just making food; they’re upholding a centuries-old culinary art. The freshness of ingredients, from tangy tomato sauces to creamy mozzarella, makes every bite a delightful experience. And let’s not forget the ambiance of these places – some nestled in bustling streets, others in quiet neighborhoods, each with its own charm and character.
For travelers and locals alike, exploring Rome’s pizza offerings is more than a culinary adventure; it’s a dive into a vital part of the city’s culture. As we’ve seen, whether it’s a quick stop at a busy street corner for a slice or a leisurely meal in a cozy restaurant, pizza in Rome is a must-try experience.
So, the next time you find yourself wandering the ancient streets of Rome, remember that you’re in one of the world’s best cities for pizza. Each pizzeria, with its unique flavors and styles, contributes to the rich tapestry of Roman cuisine. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveler, make sure to take the time to savor the pizzas of Rome – it’s an experience that your taste buds will thank you for!
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Tags
- destination, Food, Italian, Italy, Pizza, pizzeria, Rome, travel guide