Introduction

If you’re a true pizza lover, Pizza alla Pala is about to steal your heart and your appetite. Born in the streets of Rome, this specialty isn’t your usual round pie. Instead, it arrives as a long, beautifully rustic rectangle with a crust so airy and light. What makes Pizza alla Pala irresistible is its balance of artisanal craftsmanship and fresh, vibrant toppings. Imagine slices loaded with mushrooms & rosemary, cacio & pepe, nduja & chili, etc., and each ingredient layered on only after the base is baked, preserving its delicate texture. Its generous size makes it ideal for sharing, though don’t be surprised if you end up wanting the whole board to yourself.

For anyone who lives for bold flavours, beautiful textures, and authentic Italian food experiences, Pizza alla Pala is the kind of dish you try once and crave forever. It’s pizza, reimagined, lighter, crispier, and crafted to perfection.

Pizza alla Pala: The Lighter, Crunchier Alternative

Pizza alla Pala has a reputation for being one of the lightest, airiest styles of pizza, and it’s not by accident. Its signature texture comes from a careful blend of dough science, time, and technique. Unlike heavier, denser pizzas, this Roman favourite uses a highly hydrated dough and a slow-rise method that work together to create a base that’s crisp on the outside yet cloud-soft within. From the moment the dough is mixed to the moment it hits the blazing oven floor, every step is designed to preserve airiness and create that beautiful, open crumb structure pizza lovers adore.

  • Health-friendly choice: A thinner base means fewer calories and carbs, making it attractive for those mindful of their diet or looking to enjoy pizza without the heaviness.
  • Toppings take center stage: With a delicate crust, the sauce, cheese, and fresh ingredients become the stars of each bite.
  • Crunchy satisfaction: The firm, crisp texture delivers that enjoyable “crunch factor” many pizza lovers crave.
  • Social & easy to share: Light pizzas are simple to pick up, easy to enjoy on the go, and ideal for sharing at bars, parties, or casual hangouts.

Dough, Texture, and Baking Methods Explained

1. Extra-High Hydration

  • The dough contains significantly more water than typical pizza dough, often 70–80% hydration. 
  • This added moisture turns into steam during baking, helping the dough puff up naturally and form those gorgeous, airy pockets.

2. Slow, Extended Fermentation

  • The dough rests for anywhere from 24 to 72 hours (sometimes longer).
  • This slow rise allows enzymes and yeast to break down starches, making the crust not only lighter but also easier to digest and more flavorful.

3.  Gentle Dough Handling

  • Instead of being rolled out, something that would crush air bubbles, the dough is stretched softly by hand.
  • This careful treatment keeps the internal structure intact, preventing the pizza from becoming dense or heavy.

4. Rapid, High-Heat Baking

  • Pizza alla Pala is baked on a scorching oven surface, often using a traditional wooden paddle.
  • The intense heat causes an immediate “oven spring,” which lifts the dough quickly and locks in both crispiness and a soft, airy center.n

If you love pizzas that are flavour-packed but easy on the stomach, Pizza alla Pala is the perfect match.

Try Pizza Alla Pala

What Makes Pizza alla Pala Unique

Pizza alla Pala is a Roman masterpiece with its own identity, history, and irresistible charm. Born in the heart of Rome, this rectangular creation blends artisanal technique with centuries of culinary tradition, resulting in a pizza that feels both rustic and refined. Its uniqueness comes from how it’s shaped, handled, baked, and shared—making it so much more than just food.

  • This signature shape comes from ancient Roman baking techniques and instantly sets it apart visually and culturally.
  • Pizza alla pala hits the perfect balance between crisp and airy, a combination few pizza styles achieve.
  • Delicate chew that feels satisfying without heaviness
  • Baked Directly on the Oven Floor—No Pan Needed.
  • Because the crust is airy and delicate, it pairs beautifully with colourful, high-quality toppings.
  • Typical combinations of flavours highlight Roman simplicity.

Best Toppings for Pizza Alla Pala

Bold flavours, vibrant produce, and gourmet pairings come together beautifully on Pizza alla Pala. Here’s what food lovers can expect:

1. Classic & Fresh Creations

  • Prosciutto with gorgonzola & pear: A luxurious sweet–savory pairing where juicy pear slices melt into sharp, creamy gorgonzola, rounded off by delicate prosciutto.
  • Mortadella & pistachio: Silky mortadella meets the nutty crunch of roasted pistachios. Rich, aromatic, and incredibly satisfying.
  • Fresh figs & prosciutto: A seasonal masterpiece that unites natural sweetness with salty, buttery prosciutto for an upscale flavour profile.
  • Potatoes, sausage and rosemary: Carbs on carbs have never been so tasty. You first say no, you then get curious about it, you finally say maybe and try it, you’ll always say yes after the first slice.

2. Savory, Bold & Spicy Toppings

  • Salamino piccante: A favorite for those who enjoy a fiery bite. The spicy salami blends perfectly with melted cheese and tomato for a punchy, comforting slice.
  • Vegan glory: An elegant mix of seasonal veggies and the tastiest sauce —tender aubergines, courgettes, stripes of bell peppers, slices of artichokes infused with herbs. Elevated!

3. Finishing Touches That Transform the Slice

These aren’t just garnishes; these accents elevate every flavour:

  • Fresh basil leaves for aroma and colour
  • A drizzle of high-quality extra virgin olive oil for richness
  • Roasted garlic or herb blends for deeper savoury notes
  • Sea salt flakes to enhance texture and bring everything to life

At Arancina Pizzeria, every pizza is crafted with premium, freshly sourced ingredients that bring authentic Italian flavours to life. Whether you’re craving the simplicity of a classic Margherita, the heat of spicy nduja, the earthiness of wild mushrooms, or the indulgence of melt-in-your-mouth cheeses, every slice is finished with a drizzle of Extra Virgin Olive Oil for that signature richness.

Vegetarian Delight

A vibrant tomato base loaded with aubergines, courgettes, artichokes, and mixed peppers—full of colour, freshness, and Mediterranean charm.

The Ultimate Meat Lover’s Slice

A hearty Margherita foundation, generously layered with spicy salami, savoury ham, and authentic Italian pork sausage, is a bold, satisfying feast.

Classic Italian Favourite

Our Margherita is elevated with tender ham, mushrooms, artichokes, and briny black olives, bringing together timeless flavours in every bite.

Where to Try Pizza alla Pala in Notting Hill

If you’re craving authentic Roman-style pizza, Arancina Pizzeria in Notting Hill is one of the city’s most authentic destinations. Known for bringing this traditional street-food style to London long before it became widely popular, Arancina has been serving Pizza alla Pala since 2006.

Arancina Pizzeria has built its reputation on genuine Italian techniques, high-quality ingredients, and a warm, street-food-inspired dining experience. Their Pizza alla Pala is central to their identity, offering light, airy, flavour-packed slices that feel straight out of Rome.

1. Sizes & Ways to Enjoy Pizza alla Pala

THE SLICE

  • Perfect when you can’t choose just one flavour
  • Pick a couple of slices and explore the variety

THE PALETTA

  • A generous individual-sized pizza
  • Bigger than your usual personal pizza because Italians never go small!

THE PALA

  • Ideal for sharing with three people
  • The best option for families or groups of friends

2. Gluten-Free Option

  • Paletta size available with a gluten-free base
  • Made entirely from GF ingredients
  • Please note: prepared in an environment where gluten is present.

You can also customize your pizza exactly the way you like it.

Conclusion

Pizza alla pala is not merely food, it’s an experience, a moment of Roman street culture brought straight to your table.

Whether enjoyed as a shared pala, an individual paletta, or a couple of slices on the go, this Roman classic brings people together through its simplicity, versatility, and unmistakable character.

Using the proper baking technique is key to its signature texture. High heat creates a crisp, golden exterior while keeping the center soft and airy, delivering that perfect balance every time.