Hi, I’m Gianluca.
I studied cultural anthropology, and I’ve always been fascinated by the different ways people live, move, and experience a place.
Rome is not only my city – it’s the environment I love observing, understanding, and sharing through these small stories.
Together with my wife Connie, we host travellers in our small hotel near the Vatican, where we enjoy meeting people from all over the world and exchanging perspectives – just as I do here in the blog.
If you ever feel like saying hello while exploring Rome, you’ll find us on our terrace as well, where every morning we serve breakfast with a view.
Gianluca
When visiting Rome, pizza is likely at the top of your culinary bucket list. But did you know that Roman pizza and Neapolitan pizza are two distinct styles, each with its unique flavors, textures, and traditions? Let us guide you through the key differences so you can decide which slice to try first during your stay at our Bed and Breakfast in the heart of Rome.
1. Crust: Thin and Crunchy vs. Soft and Puffy
One of the most striking differences between the two is the crust. Roman pizza is known for its thin, crispy base—ideal if you prefer a crunch with every bite. Cooked at high temperatures for a shorter time, the Roman crust is almost cracker-like, perfect for those who enjoy a light and crisp pizza experience.
On the other hand, Neapolitan pizza is all about the dough. With its soft, airy, and slightly chewy crust, it’s made from a longer fermentation process, leading to a more pillowy texture. Neapolitan pizzas are baked at even higher temperatures but for only 60-90 seconds, giving the dough that characteristic puff.
2. Shape: Rectangular vs. Round
If you’re wandering around the streets of Rome, you may notice that Roman pizzas are often sold “al taglio” (by the slice) and cut from rectangular trays. This is perfect for a quick bite on the go. Neapolitan pizzas, however, are always round and typically served whole, often in the traditional size of 12 inches.
3. Toppings: Simplicity vs. Variety
While both types of pizza celebrate fresh, high-quality ingredients, there are notable differences in toppings. Neapolitan pizza sticks to the classics—such as the iconic Margherita with San Marzano tomatoes, mozzarella di bufala, and fresh basil. The focus is on balance and simplicity, with only a few toppings allowing the dough to shine.
In contrast, Roman pizza can be more adventurous, with a variety of toppings such as cured meats, vegetables, cheeses, and more. You’ll find options ranging from traditional to creative, often piled higher than on its Neapolitan counterpart.
4. Cooking Methods
Both pizzas are cooked in wood-fired ovens, but the techniques differ slightly. Roman pizza is baked at slightly lower temperatures than Neapolitan pizza, resulting in a crisper, more evenly cooked base. The Neapolitan method involves ultra-high heat that quickly cooks the pizza while keeping the dough soft and airy.
Curious Facts About Pizza in Italy
- Pizza Napoletana is protected by the UNESCO as an intangible cultural heritage, and there’s even an official certification process for pizzerias wishing to claim they serve the authentic version!
- Rome has its own pizza variation called Pizza alla Pala, which is long, oval-shaped, and has a thick, airy crust.
- The birth of the Margherita Pizza is said to date back to 1889 when it was created to honor Queen Margherita of Savoy with the colors of the Italian flag: red (tomatoes), white (mozzarella), and green (basil).
Which Pizza Should You Try?
Both pizzas offer an authentic taste of Italy, but your choice may depend on your preferences. If you prefer a crisp, thin base with a variety of creative toppings, try Roman pizza. If you want to experience the rich history and softer, more doughy texture of the original, Neapolitan pizza is for you.
However, since you’re staying in the heart of Rome, Roman pizza might just be the natural choice! Near our Bed and Breakfast QuodLibet, you can find excellent examples of both, but if I had to recommend one, I would suggest going for the Roman style to truly embrace the local flavors.
During your stay, don’t hesitate to ask us for recommendations on where to find the best examples of both pizza styles. Whether you’re in the mood for a quick slice on the go or a sit-down pizza experience, Rome has it all.