Pizza is synonymous with Italy, and for good reason. Each region brings its own unique spin to this beloved dish, offering a variety of styles, ingredients, and techniques. Whether you’re a fan of the iconic Neapolitan pizza or intrigued by regional variations like Sicilian sfincione, this guide will take you on a journey to discover where you can find the best pizza across Italy.
1. Naples: The Birthplace of Pizza
Why Naples is Pizza Heaven
Naples is the undisputed home of pizza, where it was first created in the 18th century. The city’s signature Neapolitan pizza, with its soft, pillowy crust and fresh, minimal toppings, has earned UNESCO recognition as an Intangible Cultural Heritage.
Must-Visit Pizzerias in Naples
1. L’Antica Pizzeria da Michele
Often referred to as “the sacred temple of pizza,” Da Michele is a legendary spot offering just two options: Margherita and Marinara. Simple, authentic, and perfect.
- Address: Via Cesare Sersale, 1
- Specialties: Pizza Margherita, Pizza Marinara
2. Sorbillo
Gino Sorbillo’s pizzeria is iconic, offering a variety of Neapolitan-style pizzas with top-notch ingredients. Be prepared to wait—it’s worth it.
- Address: Via dei Tribunali, 32
- Specialties: Bufalina, Pizza Bianca
3. 50 Kalò
Run by Ciro Salvo, 50 Kalò combines tradition with innovation, focusing on high-quality ingredients and a perfectly leavened dough.
- Address: Piazza Sannazzaro, 201
- Specialties: Pistachio Pizza, Mortadella Pizza
2. Rome: Thin and Crispy Perfection
Roman Pizza Styles
Rome offers two distinct styles:
- Pizza Tonda Romana: Thin, crispy, and round. Perfect for sit-down dinners.
- Pizza al Taglio: Pizza by the slice, served on rectangular trays and sold by weight.
Top Pizzerias in Rome
1. Pizzarium by Gabriele Bonci
This pizza al taglio hotspot near the Vatican is famous for its creative toppings and airy crusts.
- Address: Via della Meloria, 43
- Specialties: Seasonal toppings, Potato and Mozzarella Pizza
2. Da Remo
Known for its no-frills approach, Da Remo serves classic Roman-style pizza with a satisfying crunch.
- Address: Piazza di Santa Maria Liberatrice, 44
- Specialties: Margherita, Diavola
3. Seu Pizza Illuminati
Modern and inventive, Seu Pizza Illuminati offers a gourmet take on Roman pizza with bold flavors.
- Address: Via Angelo Bargoni, 10
- Specialties: Carbonara Pizza, Tuna Tartare Pizza
3. Florence: Rustic Charm Meets Gourmet Flair
What Makes Pizza in Florence Unique
Florence blends traditional Italian pizza with a Tuscan twist, focusing on fresh, local ingredients like pecorino cheese and wild mushrooms.
Best Pizza Spots in Florence
1. Gustapizza
This cozy spot near Santo Spirito is loved by locals and tourists for its wood-fired pizzas and laid-back vibe.
- Address: Via Maggio, 46R
- Specialties: Margherita, Truffle Pizza
2. Il Pizzaiuolo
For authentic Neapolitan-style pizza in Florence, Il Pizzaiuolo is the go-to spot.
- Address: Via dei Macci, 113
- Specialties: Bufalina, Napoli Pizza
4. Sicily: A World of Flavor in Every Slice
Sicilian Pizza Variations
Sicily is famous for its sfincione, a thick, fluffy pizza topped with tomato sauce, onions, anchovies, and breadcrumbs. It’s a hearty and flavorful take on the traditional pizza.
Top Pizza Spots in Sicily
1. Antica Focacceria San Francesco (Palermo)
Known for its rustic sfincione and other Sicilian specialties.
- Address: Via Alessandro Paternostro, 58
- Specialties: Sfincione
2. Pizzeria Frida (Palermo)
A modern spot with a creative menu, offering both traditional Sicilian pizzas and gourmet options.
- Address: Piazza Sant’Onofrio, 37
- Specialties: Sfincione, Pistachio Pizza
5. Milan: Gourmet Innovations
Pizza in the Fashion Capital
Milan’s pizza scene is all about innovation and refinement, offering a gourmet spin on traditional recipes.
Best Pizzerias in Milan
1. Lievità
Known for its light, gourmet pizzas crafted with high-quality ingredients and inventive toppings.
- Address: Via Ravizza, 11
- Specialties: Truffle Pizza, Squash Blossom Pizza
2. Dry Milano
This trendy spot pairs artisan cocktails with gourmet pizzas, making it a favorite among the city’s fashion-forward crowd.
- Address: Via Solferino, 33
- Specialties: Margherita Gourmet, Pizza with Burrata
6. Bologna: A Fusion of Tradition and Creativity
Pizza with an Emilia-Romagna Twist
In Bologna, the rich culinary traditions of Emilia-Romagna influence the pizza, with ingredients like Parma ham, Parmigiano-Reggiano, and balsamic vinegar often featured.
Top Picks in Bologna
1. O’ Fiore Mio
Specializing in slow-rise dough and seasonal toppings, O’ Fiore Mio offers a flavorful pizza experience.
- Address: Via Galliera, 49B
- Specialties: Parma Ham Pizza, Mortadella Pizza
2. Berberè
A contemporary pizzeria focusing on organic ingredients and unique flavor combinations.
- Address: Via Giuseppe Petroni, 9
- Specialties: Zucchini Flower Pizza, Ricotta Pizza
7. Turin: Northern Italian Elegance
What Sets Turin Apart
Turin’s pizza scene combines traditional Italian techniques with Northern Italian influences, emphasizing artisan methods and regional ingredients.
Best Pizzerias in Turin
1. Bricks
Known for its focus on sustainable, local ingredients and creative toppings.
- Address: Via S. Dalmazzo, 8A
- Specialties: Gorgonzola Pizza, Pumpkin and Speck Pizza
2. Pizzeria Starita
A Neapolitan-style pizzeria with a long-standing tradition of excellence.
- Address: Via San Massimo, 3
- Specialties: Montanara Pizza, Bufalina
8. Tips for the Ultimate Pizza Experience in Italy
- Timing is Key: Many pizzerias open for dinner around 7 PM, and pizza al taglio spots are perfect for lunch or a quick snack.
- Pair with Italian Drinks: Try pizza with local wines, craft beers, or a refreshing Aperol Spritz.
- Respect Local Customs: In some places, pizza is eaten with a knife and fork, especially when served hot and fresh out of the oven.
Conclusion
Italy offers an incredible variety of pizza styles, each rooted in regional traditions and enriched by local ingredients. From the classic Neapolitan pizzas in Naples to the crispy Roman creations and the unique flavors of Sicily, every bite tells a story of Italy’s rich culinary heritage. Whether you’re exploring big cities or small towns, the perfect pizza experience awaits. Buon appetito!
