Pizza is Australia’s favorite comfort food, but most people think only of the classic Neapolitan round pie. If you’re looking for something different — light, airy, crisp, and bursting with flavor — Roman-style pizza is the way to go. Particularly, pizza al taglio, which literally means “pizza by the cut,” has become increasingly popular in cities like Sydney, Melbourne, and Brisbane.
What Makes Roman-Style Pizza Unique?
Roman pizza differs in both texture and tradition:
- Dough & Fermentation:
Roman pizza dough is usually highly hydrated and allowed to ferment for 24–48 hours. This makes it airy, light, and digestible, with a crisp bottom and soft interior. - Shape & Service:
- Pizza al taglio is baked in large rectangular trays and sold by the slice or by weight.
- Pizza alla romana is thin, crisp, and round — perfect for folding and eating on the go.
- Toppings:
- Unlike Neapolitan pizzas that focus on minimal toppings, Roman pizzas often feature creative combinations, like pumpkin with ricotta, sausage with roasted peppers, or classic margherita with fresh buffalo mozzarella.
- Tip: Authentic Roman pizza should be crispy on the edges but soft inside, light enough to eat several slices without feeling heavy.
Best Roman-Style Pizza Spots in Australia
Here’s a city-by-city breakdown of places where you can try pizza al taglio and Roman-inspired pizzas.
Sydney
- Al Taglio, Surry Hills
Specializes in classic Roman slices by weight. Their dough is highly fermented, producing light and airy slices. Popular flavors include truffle mushroom, prosciutto, and classic margherita. - 170 Grammi, Darlinghurst
Offers Roman-style thin crust pizza with slow-fermented dough. Great for those who appreciate artisanal techniques and authentic Italian flavor.
170 Grammi Website
Melbourne & Victoria
- A Slice of Rome by Il Pizzaiolo, Thornbury
A hidden gem serving rectangular Roman slices, fresh daily. Perfect for takeaway or casual dine-in.
A Slice of Rome - Pazzi, Melbourne Central
Offers al taglio slices alongside Neapolitan pizzas, making it a versatile stop for pizza enthusiasts. Their dough is light and well-fermented. - Romanello, South Melbourne
Famous for seasonal Roman-style creations. Great for trying different toppings and experiencing a more modern take on traditional Roman pizza.
Brisbane & Queensland
- Florentia Pizza al Taglio, Coorparoo
Serves authentic Roman slices with airy dough and crispy edges. Ideal for lunch, takeaway, or picnic-style meals.
Florentia Pizza Website - Scugnizzi, Brisbane
While not exclusively Roman, this pizzeria offers Italian-inspired toppings and crisp bases, giving a nod to Roman traditions.
How to Spot Authentic Pizza al Taglio in Australia
- Rectangular trays: Roman pizza is rarely round.
- By the slice service: Slices are often sold by weight.
- Airy crust: High hydration and long fermentation give a light, bubbly dough.
- Creative toppings: While classics like margherita are popular, look for seasonal, vegetable-rich, or meat-variety toppings.
- Insider tip: Check if the pizzeria uses stone ovens or steel trays, as these often enhance the authentic Roman crust texture.
Experience & Atmosphere
Unlike traditional pizzerias, al taglio spots are often casual. Many are takeaway-focused, with a few stools or benches outside. You can grab a slice, fold it, and enjoy it on the street — just like in Rome.
Pair your pizza with a fresh Italian soda or espresso, and you’re halfway to a Roman street-side experience, right in Australia.
Final Thoughts
Roman-style pizza in Australia is more than just a meal — it’s a culinary experience. Whether you’re wandering Melbourne’s laneways, enjoying Sydney’s Surry Hills, or exploring Brisbane’s cozy suburbs, there’s a slice waiting to impress.
By seeking authentic dough, by-the-slice service, and creative toppings, you can enjoy the true taste of Rome, without leaving Australia.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. What is pizza al taglio?
Pizza al taglio is Roman-style pizza baked in large rectangular trays and sold by the slice or weight. It’s light, airy, and crispy.
2. How is Roman pizza different from Neapolitan pizza?
Roman pizza is typically thinner, crispier, and often rectangular, whereas Neapolitan pizza is round, soft, and chewy with a puffy crust.
3. Where can I find authentic Roman pizza in Australia?
Top spots include Al Taglio (Sydney), 170 Grammi (Melbourne), A Slice of Rome (Melbourne), and Florentia Pizza al Taglio (Brisbane).
4. Can I eat pizza al taglio on the go?
Yes! Roman slices are designed to be folded and eaten with your hands, perfect for takeaway or street-style eating.
5. What toppings are common on Roman-style pizza?
Besides classic Margherita, toppings can include sausage, mushrooms, roasted vegetables, truffle, or seasonal Italian ingredients.
