Why Trastevere Is a Pizza Lover’s Paradise
Considering it’s a neighborhood famed for its foodie offerings, it’s little wonder Trastevere boasts some stellar pizzerias. Between sit-down eateries and grab-and-go haunts, I’ve dined at quite a few spots in the area since starting my Rome food tours in an effort to find the best pizza in Trastevere!
In this article, I’ll let you in on all of my insider information about Trastevere’s pizza scene, from notable pizzerias to recommended styles and dishes to essential etiquette tips.
Roman-Style vs. Neapolitan Pizza: What’s the Difference?
Neapolitan might be the most famous form of Italian pizza, but in the capital, the Roman-style alternative is the star of the show. That said, you’ll find both varieties throughout Trastevere, though it’s a good idea to know the difference between the two.
Roman-style pizza typically has a thin, crispy crust and a cracker-like consistency on the outer ridges. On the other hand, Neapolitan is what most of us imagine when we think of traditional Italian pizza, with its chewy crust and puffy outer rim.
While there are no set rules about toppings, Neapolitan pizzas are often more paired back than their Roman-style counterparts. For instance, mozzarella, marinara sauce, and basil are standard toppings for Neapolitan pizzas. Romans tend to be a little more creative, adding everything from grilled veggies and anchovies to blue cheese and bacon.
An authentic Neapolitan pizza should be cooked in a wood-fired oven, whereas a traditional Roman-style pizza is generally baked in a gas deck oven. Looking out for either of these is a great indicator that you’ll be getting the real deal!
Must-try Pizzerias in Trastevere
Alice Pizza
Photo credit: Alice Pizza
Alice Pizza isn’t the place to go if you’re searching for an upscale dining experience and a relaxed atmosphere, but it’s a must-visit if you’re eager to sample some of the best pizzas in Trastevere. This casual joint is all about pizza al taglio, and their airy crusts are to die for. In terms of toppings, I suggest trying the mild provola with smokey pancetta.
Alice Pizza – 00153 Roma – Open every day from 12:00 pm to 12:00 am.
Suppli Roma
Suppli Roma is, unsurprisingly, cherished for their delicious suppli, but the pizza here is just as good. There are almost always queues outside this bustling takeout spot, and once you try their tangy Roman-style marinara pizza, you’ll see why.
Suppli Roma – 00153 Roma – Open every Monday to Saturday from 10:00 am to 10:00 pm, closed every Sunday.
L’Elementare
Photo credit: L’Elementare
The guys at L’Elementare prepare arguably the best pizza in Trastevere, and the relaxed, contemporary dining area is the perfect spot to escape after a busy day of sightseeing. They have an extensive pizza menu, and I got a Neapolitan-inspired offering with a soft crust and a generous helping of zingy tomato sauce and gooey mozzarella.
L’Elementare – 00153 Roma – Open every Monday and Tuesday from 6:00 pm to 1:00 am, Wednesday, Thursday, and Sunday from 12:00 pm to 1:00 pm, and every Friday and Saturday from 12:00 pm to 2:00 am.
Ai Marmi
Photo credit: Ai Marmi
The smell of freshly baked pizzas from Ai Marmi was enough to lure me inside when I walked past a few months back. I had to wait a few minutes to snag a table during the lunchtime rush, but the crunchy Roman pizza with tender zucchini flowers was certainly worth braving the line for.
Ai Marmi – 00153 Roma – Open every Monday, Tuesday, and Thursday to Sunday from 6:00 pm to 2:00 am, closed every Wednesday.
Pizzeria La Boccaccia
Pizzeria La Boccaccia has some of the best pizza in Trastevere, particularly if you’re a fan of pizza al taglio. I’ve visited this charming nook a handful of times now and have become a huge fan of the potato-topped pizza, with its dense crust and mild, comforting flavors.
Pizzeria La Boccaccia – 00153 Roma – Open every day from 10:00 am to 11:00 pm.
Peppo al Cosimato
Photo credit: Peppo al Cosimato
Peppo al Cosimato is the place to go in Trastevere for Neapolitan pizza. The wonderful staff and warm, old-fashioned decor are reason enough to visit, but the pizza is also pretty incredible. Each slice had a slight chewiness and a crisp edge, and I added a touch of spice by opting for some hot salami.
Peppo al Cosimato – 00153 Roma – Open every day from 12:00 pm to 3:30 pm and from 7:00 pm to 12:30 am.
Italian Restaurant Dining Culture Experience and Local Etiquette
- Dining in Rome is a slow-paced affair, so be sure to take your time and enjoy each bite.
- Both Neapolitan and Roman-style pizza should be eaten using your hands, meaning you can ditch the knife and fork! For the former, it’s best to fold over the slice before tucking in.
- Popular spots fill up fast, especially in the evenings and at weekends, so it’s best to make reservations where possible.
- Tipping isn’t standard practice in Trastevere, but it’s not uncommon to leave a small tip if you’ve dined at a sit-down restaurant.
- For a complete Roman dining experience, order some starters before feasting on your pizza. Some local favorites include bruschetta, suppli, deep-fried zucchini flowers, and, if they’re in season, fried artichokes.
When and Where to Eat Pizza in Trastevere
Pizza can be enjoyed at pretty much any time of day, excluding breakfast, that is! Casual establishments are busiest between 12:30 pm and 2:30 pm, in line with the city’s usual lunch hours, while traditional pizza restaurants fill up between 8:00 pm and 10:00 pm for dinner.
Nevertheless, you’ll also find plenty of spots that stay open late, meaning you can get your pizza fix if you’re feeling peckish after an evening of bar-hopping!
There are countless pizza locations in Trastevere, and many are easily accessible from lively areas like Piazza Trilussa and Piazza Santa Maria, allowing you to easily combine dining and sightseeing.
Final Thoughts: Let Pizza Be Your Guide in Trastevere
Prepare to discover the best pizza in Trastevere with this fool-proof guide. The smell of wood-fired ovens and the sight of lengthy queues will tell you all you need to know about where to secure the tastiest slices!
Sources:
Eating Europe. (n.d.). Rome food tours. Eating Europe. https://www.eatingeurope.com/rome/
Alice Pizza. (n.d.). Alice Trastevere. https://www.alicepizza.it/store/alice-trastevere/
Supplì Roma. (n.d.). Homepage. https://www.suppliroma.it/?lang=en
Pizzeria L’Elementare. (n.d.). Homepage. https://www.pizzerialelementare.it/
Ai Marmi. (n.d.). Pizzeria Ai Marmi [Instagram profile]. Instagram. https://www.instagram.com/pizzeriaaimarmi/?hl=en
Tripadvisor. (n.d.). Pizzeria La Boccaccia. Tripadvisor. https://www.tripadvisor.com/Restaurant_Review-g187791-d12458943-Reviews-Pizzeria_La_Boccaccia-Rome_Lazio.html
Peppo al Cosimato. (n.d.). Homepage. https://www.pepporistorante.it/