The Irresistible Charm of Pizza al Taglio: A Rome Must-Try
Italian cuisine, known worldwide for its diversity and flavors, presents a delightful and unique pizza experience in Rome: pizza al taglio. This style of pizza, often overshadowed by its Neapolitan counterpart, charms locals and visitors alike with its distinct characteristics, innovative toppings, and a vibrant street food culture. Let’s dive into the world of pizza al taglio and uncover some of the best places to enjoy this delectable dish in the Eternal City.
Understanding Pizza al Taglio
Pizza al taglio, translating to “pizza by the cut,” is a square-shaped pizza that is baked in a large rectangular tray. The beauty lies in its crispy base and airy, fluffy crust, which holds up to a variety of toppings. Sold by weight, these tantalizing slices are perfect for a quick snack or a leisurely meal. Residents of Rome enjoy this pizza on their bustling city strolls or while sitting in parks, making it an emblem of Rome’s vibrant street food culture.
Top Spots for Pizza al Taglio in Rome
1. Bonci Pizzarium
Located near the Vatican, Bonci Pizzarium is considered the birthplace of modern pizza al taglio. Gabriele Bonci, often dubbed “The King of Roman Pizza,” transformed traditional approaches with his commitment to organic ingredients and adventurous flavors. Expect to find seasonal toppings that reflect the best of local produce, from chickpea cream to fried artichokes. Bonci’s creativity ensures that each visit feels like a new culinary adventure.
Location:
Via della Meloria, 43, 00136 Roma
Website: bonci.it
2. Lina – La Pizza in Teglia
Nestled in the Prati district near Saint Peter’s Basilica, Lina offers gourmet pizzas with a menu that shifts with the seasons. Food blogger Lucrezia di Pancrazio praises their unique offerings, especially the pumpkin lard and gorgonzola pizza during winter. Traditional delights like supplì and olive ascolane add to the charm, making it a must-visit for any pizza enthusiast.
Location:
Circonvallazione Trionfale, 53, 00195 Roma
Website: linapizza.com
3. Forno da Milvio
A staple since 1930 in the lively Monti neighborhood, Forno da Milvio provides not just pizza but an authentic Roman bakery experience. Renowned for its incredible pizza al taglio, this family-run business blends tradition and modernity. With pies made fresh daily, you can feast on everything from classic tomato and mozzarella pizzas to sweet pastries.
Location:
Via dei Serpenti, 7, 00184 Roma
Contact: +39 06 48930145
Sampling New Flavors
4. Casa Manco
Another gem at the Testaccio Market, Casa Manco is well-loved for its innovative toppings and exceptional dough. Elizabeth Minchilli, a renowned food writer, enjoys the semi-annual variety this stand offers, featuring local ingredients like figs and fresh vegetables. Grab a slice to enjoy on the go or pair it with a nice Italian wine for a relaxing afternoon.
Location:
Via Aldo Manuzio 66C Nuovo Mercato di Testaccio Box, 22, 00153 Roma
Website: casamanco.it
5. Antico Forno Roscioli
Located near Campo de’ Fiori, this esteemed bakery offers more than mere sustenance; it provides a slice of Roman history. Famous for its fluffy white pizza and rich, savory focaccia, Roscioli has delighted locals and tourists alike since 1972. Visitors often endure long lines because the rewards—tasty and authentic pizza—are well worth it.
Location:
Via dei Chiavari, 34, 00186 Roma
Website: anticofornoroscioli.it
The Sweet Finale: Pizza Bianca with Nutella
No exploration of pizza al taglio is complete without indulging in the sweet side of this culinary tradition. Many establishments serve pizza bianca con Nutella—a lightly salted crust filled with rich chocolate-hazelnut spread. It’s a sweet, guilt-free indulgence that remains a crowd favorite.
Satisfy Your Cravings
The next time you find yourself wandering the charming streets of Rome, indulge your taste buds with a slice of pizza al taglio. From traditional pizzerias to innovative eateries, this delightful food not only satisfies hunger but also immerses you in Rome’s culinary rich culture. Whether you’re savoring a classic slice or trying something experimental, the experience is bound to leave a lasting impression. Grab a slice and join the locals in celebrating the vibrant street food scene. Your palate will thank you!
