Pinsa, in its present form, is the creation of entrepreneur Corrado Di Marco, who has revived and commercialized an ancient dish. Long ago, it was a recovery food for the peasant populations living outside the walls of ancient Rome. Cereals and coarse flour that could not be sold in the markets became the basis for a dough used to make crisp, light focaccia.
Today’s pinsa is derived from this humble past. The name pinsa comes from the Latin word pinsère, meaning “to crush” or “stretch.” This refers to the way the dough is stretched by hand into its characteristic oval shape without using a rolling pin. The various toppings give pinsa a pizza-like appearance, but the two dishes are quite different.
A Revolution in the Land of Pizza
Corrado Di Marco’s innovation lies in the dough. His secret mix includes wheat, rice, and soy flours, though the exact proportions are closely guarded. Pinsa dough is also distinct from traditional pizza dough due to its high hydration level—80% water—and the lack of fats, sugars, and the minimal use of yeast. This results in a lighter, more digestible product with fewer calories, making it an appealing alternative to classic pizza.
Where to Try Pinsa in Rome
Pinsa is now widely available in Rome, with many establishments offering their own variations of this ancient dish. Here are some of the top places to enjoy pinsa:
Pinsere: Via Flavia 98
Pinsamisù: Via Calpurnio Fiamma, 83
La Pratolina: Via degli Scipioni, 248
Pinsa’mpo: Via dei Gracchi, 7
La Locomotiva: Via Monti Tiburtini 157
Pizza Spartaco: Viale Spartaco, 73
Deus Pinsa: Via Selinunte 35
Domus Pnsa Alberone: Via Francesco Valesio 15
Habemus Pinsa: Via Umbria, 19
Pinsa e Buoi dei…: Viale Carlo Felice 51/53
L’Albero Cocciuto: Viale Appio Claudio 221
M: Via dei Castani 173
Why Pinsa is Worth a Try
Pinsa is perfect for anyone seeking a lighter alternative to pizza while still enjoying the vibrant flavors of Italian cuisine. Its unique texture—crispy on the outside and soft on the inside—paired with fresh, inventive toppings, makes it a culinary experience not to be missed.
