Osteria Gatta Mangiona

Osteria Gatta Mangiona is a celebrated pizzeria and restaurant in the residential Monteverde district of Rome, widely regarded as one of the best places in the city for serious, gourmet pizza. While Rome's own tradition runs to the thin, crackly pizza romana, Gatta Mangiona built its reputation on a more Neapolitan-leaning style—a well-risen, long-fermented dough with a developed cornicione (raised crust)—using high-quality, often artisanal ingredients and seasonal toppings. The kitchen is known for inventive yet balanced combinations as well as classics, and its pizza with Roman artichokes and pecorino has become something of a local legend; the buffalo mozzarella and basil and other vegetable-forward pizzas are equally well executed. Beyond pizza, the menu offers good fried starters (the supplì and other fritti are excellent), a few pasta and main dishes and a thoughtful selection of craft beers and wines that reflects the owners' enthusiasm. The setting is a comfortable, contemporary dining room geared to relaxed evenings out, drawing local families, couples and pizza enthusiasts rather than tourists; casual dress is fine and the atmosphere is convivial and unhurried. Prices are moderate, with pizzas around €11 to €13—a little above a basic pizzeria but justified by the quality of the dough and toppings. It is open mainly for dinner, with lunch added at weekends, and its strong reputation means reservations are advisable, particularly on weekend evenings when it fills. Located away from the centre in Monteverde, it rewards a short trip for those wanting to taste how good Roman pizza can be when made with care. For pizza lovers exploring beyond the tourist trail, Gatta Mangiona is a standout.