Pizza in Rome is not just a meal—it’s a tradition, a street food, and a deeply rooted part of daily life. Unlike the thick, chewy Neapolitan style, Roman pizza is distinct: crispy, airy, and incredibly diverse. The two main types of pizza in Rome are pizza al taglio (by the slice), typically sold in bakeries and street-side counters, and pizza tonda, the ultra-thin, crisp variety served in sit-down pizzerias. This guide explores the best places to experience each style, from bustling bakeries to classic pizzerie.
By: Nicholas R. Fanuele
March 8, 2025
Pizza al Taglio - Roman Pizza by the Slice
📍La Renella Forno Antico Trastevere – A historic bakery in the heart of Trastevere, La Renella has been serving delicious pizza al taglio for over a century. They churn out perfectly thin crispy slices, from classic pizza rossa to creative seasonal options.
📍Forno Campo de' Fiori – A historic bakery in the heart of Rome, famous for its pizza bianca—a simple, yet addictive, crisp flatbread brushed with olive oil and salt. Grab a slice and eat it like the locals do, folded over like a sandwich.
📍Antico Forno Roscioli – A family-run institution near Campo de’ Fiori, Roscioli serves up some of the best pizza rossa (thin, crispy pizza with a simple tomato topping) in the city. It’s a must-stop for an authentic Roman snack.
📍Casa Manco (Testaccio Market | Box #22) – A hidden gem inside the Testaccio Market, CasaManco specializes in pizza al taglio with seasonal, creative toppings. A great stop for a quick but high-quality bite while exploring one of Rome’s best food markets.
📍Forno da Milvio – A local favorite outside the tourist-heavy areas, Forno da Milvio serves excellent pizza al taglio with a commitment to high-quality ingredients and traditional baking methods. Their pizza bianca and pizza con patate (potato pizza, a favorite!) are must-tries.
Pizza Tonda - Classic Roman Sit-Down Pizza
📍L'Elementare – A rising star in the Roman pizza scene, L'Elementare takes pizza romana tonda seriously, with high-quality ingredients and a dedication to the thin, crispy tradition. Their selection of wine and beer makes it a perfect spot for a relaxed meal.
📍Ivo a Trastevere – A beloved Trastevere institution, Ivo serves up classic pizza romana tonda with a satisfyingly crunchy crust. The lively, old-school atmosphere makes it a must-visit for those looking to experience true Roman dining.
📍Ai Marmi – Often called "The Morgue" because of its marble tables, Ai Marmi is a Roman classic, famous for its perfectly charred, paper-thin pizzas. Pair it with a plate of supplì and an ice-cold Peroni for the ultimate local experience.
📍Trattoria Pizzeria da Simonetta – A hidden gem where locals go for reliably delicious pizza tonda. The ultra-thin crust and high-quality toppings make it a standout, and its slightly off-the-beaten-path location keeps it refreshingly authentic.
📍Pizzeria Remo – A Testaccio institution, Pizzeria Remo pumps out some of the most classic, no-frills pizza romana in the city. The crust is cracker-thin and perfectly charred, best enjoyed with a cold beer and a side of supplì (fried rice balls).
Roman pizza is as much about texture as it is about flavor—whether you’re biting into the airy crust of pizza al taglio or the crisp crunch of pizza romana tonda, each style offers a different but equally delicious experience. Whether it’s your first time in Rome or you’ve explored its food scene before, there’s always another perfect slice waiting to be discovered.