The Best Pizza in Rome: A Local's Guide to 2026

I moved to Rome for a month to write about food. My mission: find the best pizza in a city that's famous for it. I ate at 40 pizzerias. Some were terrible. Some were life-changing. Here's the real list—no TripAdvisor fluff, just places that locals love.

First, Some Context

Rome has two types of pizza: al taglio (by the slice, rectangular) and tonda (round, thin crust). Both are valid. But tourists often go to chains like Alice Pizza or Pizzarium (which is good, but overhyped). I wanted to find hidden gems.

1. Forno Campo de' Fiori (The Best Al Taglio)

This bakery near Campo de' Fiori has been around since the 1800s. The pizza bianca—plain white pizza with olive oil and salt—is legendary. It's simple, but the texture is perfect: crispy on the outside, chewy inside. I ate it every morning. €2 a slice. Go early; they sell out by noon.

2. Emma Pizzeria (The Best Tonda)

Emma is in the center but not touristy. The dough is light and airy, fermented for 48 hours. I tried the margherita with buffalo mozzarella. It was $12 and worth every cent. The service is fast, and they have a great wine list. Reservations recommended.

3. I Buoni Amici (The Hidden Gem)

This place is in the suburbs, a 20-minute metro ride from Termini. The owner, Marco, makes pizza with a sourdough starter that's 10 years old. The crust is dark and blistered. I had the 'nduja and honey pizza—spicy, sweet, unforgettable. €10. No English menu. Perfect.

4. La Montecarlo (The Late-Night Spot)

Open until 2 AM, this place near Piazza Navona is where locals go after drinks. The pizza is thin and crispy, with a slightly charred edge. The diavola (spicy salami) is my go-to. €8. Cash only. Don't expect fancy service.

5. Pizzeria Da Baffetto (The Tourist Favorite, But Deserved)

I know, I said no tourist traps, but Da Baffetto is actually good. The lines are long, but the pizza is classic Roman: thin, crunchy, with fresh toppings. The capricciosa (ham, mushrooms, artichokes, egg) is bomb. €11. Go at 7 PM to avoid the queue.

What to Avoid

Don't go to any place with a picture menu in 10 languages. Avoid the pizzerias right next to the Colosseum. They're overpriced and soggy. And never order a pizza with pineapple in Rome—seriously, the staff will judge you.

Final Thoughts

Rome's pizza is a revelation. It's not like Neapolitan pizza (thick, gooey). It's elegant and simple. The best meal I had was a €3 slice at Forno Campo de' Fiori, standing on a street corner. Don't overplan. Just eat.