Pizza is one of the world’s most universal and beloved dishes. Since its birth in Italy, it has conquered cultures, palates, and generations. However, not all pizzas are created equal: there are styles that represent different traditions and offer unique experiences to the diner.

In Medellín, where the gastronomic scene has diversified, pizza is no longer seen as just fast food; it has become a gourmet and cultural dish. In this landscape, Cala Roca, a Mediterranean restaurant in El Poblado, has positioned itself as a benchmark for well-made pizza, offering both classic Neapolitan pizza and innovative artisanal pizza proposals.

In this article, we will explore what differentiates these two styles, what you can expect from each, and why Cala Roca is the ideal place to try them in Medellín.

Neapolitan Pizza: Italian Tradition at Its Finest

Origin and Authenticity

Neapolitan pizza was born in Naples in the 18th century and was recognized by UNESCO as Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity. Its preparation follows clear rules:

• Slow-fermented dough, ranging from 24 to 48 hours.
• Inflated and airy crust (known as “cornicione”).
• San Marzano tomato sauce and buffalo mozzarella as star ingredients.
• Cooked in a wood-fired oven at over 400 °C for only 90 seconds.

Sensory Characteristics

• Light and airy texture.
• Intense but balanced flavor between dough, tomato, cheese, and basil.
• Rustic and artisanal appearance with slightly charred edges from the stone oven.

The Margherita Pizza: The Queen of Naples

Among all Neapolitan pizzas, the Margherita is the most emblematic. Its colors (red, white, and green) represent the Italian flag, and its simplicity demonstrates that less is more when ingredient quality is unsurpassed.

Artisanal Pizza: Innovation and Creativity in Every Bite

What Differentiates It from Neapolitan?

While Neapolitan pizza adheres to strict rules, artisanal pizza offers more creative freedom to the chef. Its essence lies in the quality of ingredients and artisanal technique, but with room to innovate in flavors and combinations.

• Slow-fermented dough, but with variations in thickness and texture.
• Greater diversity of ingredients: aged cheeses, fresh vegetables, cured meats, truffle, seafood.
• Cooked in a stone oven, which ensures an authentic flavor.

Sensory Characteristics

• Crispy texture at the base and soft in the center.
• Intense and varied flavors, depending on the chosen combination.
• More gourmet options, ideal for sharing and exploring new tastes.

Cala Roca: The Temple of Pizza in Medellín

Neapolitan Pizza at Cala Roca

At Cala Roca, you will find authentic Neapolitan pizzas, prepared respecting Italian tradition:

• Fresh dough with slow fermentation.
• Imported ingredients such as Italian tomatoes and buffalo mozzarella.
• Cooked in a stone oven to achieve the perfect texture.

The Margherita pizza is one of the most requested, along with classic options like the Marinara or the Four Cheeses.

Artisanal Pizza at Cala Roca

In addition to classic Neapolitan pizzas, Cala Roca offers an artisanal menu where the chef’s creativity shines with gourmet proposals such as:

• Prosciutto and arugula with freshly grated Parmesan cheese.
• Truffle and mushroom pizza with a creamy white base.
• Mediterranean with Kalamata olives, sun-dried tomatoes, and feta cheese.
• Fresh seafood for those seeking an innovative touch.

Ideal Pairings: Wines for Each Pizza Style

One of Cala Roca’s strengths is its wine list, carefully selected to accompany each dish.

• Classic Neapolitan (Margherita, Marinara): Pairs well with a young Chianti, which highlights the acidity of the tomato.
• Gourmet Artisanal (Prosciutto and arugula, Truffle and mushrooms): Marries perfectly with white wines like Pinot Grigio or more structured reds like a Barolo.
• Mediterranean Options (with seafood or olives): Combines well with a fresh Vermentino or a sparkling Prosecco.

Diner Reviews

Cala Roca’s customers consistently highlight the quality of their pizzas:

• “The best Neapolitan pizza in Medellín.”
• “The dough is light and delicious; you can taste the slow fermentation.”
• “The artisanal pizzas surprise with unique combinations.”

This confirms that Cala Roca not only respects Italian tradition but also innovates to offer new experiences.

Comparison: Neapolitan vs. Artisanal at Cala Roca

Tips for Enjoying Pizzas at Cala Roca

• Try a classic Neapolitan like the Margherita to savor the Italian tradition.
• Share a gourmet artisanal pizza, like the prosciutto and arugula, to experience innovation.
• Pair with wine: ask the sommelier for a recommendation to enhance each flavor.
• Accompany with a light starter, such as bruschetta or carpaccio, to whet your appetite.
• Save room for dessert: a tiramisu or panna cotta completes the Mediterranean experience.

Pizza as a Cultural Experience in Medellín

Beyond technique and ingredients, pizza at Cala Roca becomes a cultural symbol:

• It brings couples, families, and friends together around the table.
• It represents both Italian tradition and gourmet innovation.
• It reflects how Medellín has opened up to the gastronomic world, incorporating the best of other cultures without losing its local essence.

Neapolitan pizza and artisanal pizza represent two sides of the same passion: the first, faithful to the tradition of Naples; the second, open to creativity and innovation. In Medellín, Cala Roca offers the best of both worlds, becoming the ideal place for those who want to experience pizza as a complete culinary journey.

Whether you prefer the simplicity of a Neapolitan Margherita or the intensity of an artisanal truffle pizza, at Cala Roca you’ll find authentic flavors that conquer the palate and create unforgettable memories.

Want to discover the difference between Neapolitan and artisanal pizzas? 

Book your table at Cala Roca and enjoy the best pizzas in Medellín, prepared with Mediterranean tradition and artisanal