Hello there!
Today I made a rare trip into the (relatively) bustling city center.
This is Nanako, your Sarukuma writer.

The spot I’m introducing today is located in Joto-machi, Namikizaka, in Chuo Ward of Kumamoto City:
“Pizzeria da Rocco”.

This is the place to go for genuine, authentic Italian pizza in Kumamoto.

“If you want pizza in Kumamoto City, this is THE spot!” — that’s how much I love this restaurant.

You’ll find it on Namikizaka, just near the entrance to Kamitori shopping arcade — a perfect stop while exploring downtown Kumamoto.

The lovely terrace seats facing the street belong to Da Rocco too.

On the day I visited, I spotted a mom with a stroller enjoying a leisurely meal here. ♪

Note: there are no children’s high chairs available, so if you’re bringing little ones, coming with a stroller is a great idea.

The entrance to the restaurant is tucked just inside the terrace area.

Inside, you’ll find a cozy mix of table seating and counter seats.

Behind the counter in the kitchen sits a real, traditional wood-fired pizza oven.

Inside, the flames are crackling away…!
Pizza baked in a beautiful oven like this simply HAS to be delicious!

And up these stairs…

…you’ll find the second-floor terrace seating.

The first floor was full when I arrived, so I was led upstairs to this terrace, and

this terrace is absolutely the best.

You can enjoy a relaxed meal while taking in the view of Namikizaka below.
Cars pass by from time to time, which is sure to delight any car-loving little one.

Recommended Menu

Excitement is already through the roof just from sitting down — let’s take a look at the menu.

During lunch hours, your pizza or lasagna comes with a drink included.

Pizzas range from ¥1,000 to ¥1,400, and lasagna is ¥800.

Last time I came, I had the Margherita con Prosciutto, and
the generous topping of prosciutto paired with melty cheese was so good it nearly brought tears to my eyes.

But today I’m also tempted by the Italia, which combines Margherita and Quattro Formaggi flavors on one pizza…!

The loaded Capricciosa and the Mimosa with fresh cream and corn also caught my eye…

Lunch add-ons include:

Appetizer plate (salad + 3 dishes) +¥200

Dessert +¥100

Salad +¥100

Here’s the appetizer plate with salad.

Mushrooms simmered in tomato, a vegetable omelet, and prosciutto with persimmon and ricotta cheese.

It’s so beautifully presented that excitement reached a whole new level.
And every single bite was delicious!

Especially this one:

The salty prosciutto and sweet persimmon were a perfect match — absolutely incredible.

And the main dish I ordered today was…!!

The lasagna!! (Wait, not pizza?!)

After enjoying the pizza last time, I’d heard rumors that this lasagna was outstanding,
and I’d been dying to try it ever since.

Amazingly, this lasagna is also baked in the wood-fired pizza oven, and arrived bubbling hot at the table.

Generous sauce, smooth silky pasta sheets…

The meat sauce layered between clings perfectly to the pasta.
The creamy tomato sauce with cheese is exquisite.
Pure happiness in every bite.

Without a doubt, this was the most delicious lasagna I have ever had in my life.

Both the meat sauce and tomato sauce are mild and gentle in flavor, so it’s likely a hit with kids too.

To finish, the tiramisu from the lunch dessert option.

The coffee-soaked, moist sponge paired beautifully with the rich cream —
absolutely delicious.

Enjoying a phenomenal meal while looking out over Namikizaka.
It was a truly luxurious way to spend an afternoon.

Pizzeria da Rocco

Whether you’re dining solo or bringing the kids, I can’t recommend this place highly enough!

If you find yourself wandering Namikizaka, definitely stop by. ♪
It’s a popular spot, so I recommend booking in advance for lunch hours and weekends!

As for me, I’ll definitely be back soon — next time, to try the “Italia” pizza!!

Frequently Asked Questions

※ Information accurate as of the time of reporting. Prices and hours may change. Please confirm before your visit.