Suppli al Telefono: the story on the plate
Supplì al Telefono is rooted in Rome and Lazio. Supplì are Roman fried rice croquettes, historically sold as inexpensive snacks and closely associated with the city's street food and pizzerie. The phrase al telefono refers to the string of melted mozzarella that stretches between two halves when a hot supplì is pulled apart. They are famous for that dramatic mozzarella pull, but a good supplì is equally about the contrast between crisp breadcrumbs and well-seasoned tomato rice. Unlike many Sicilian arancini, the classic Roman version is usually smaller and elongated. Supplì remain a familiar Roman appetiser and takeaway snack, often eaten before pizza. Their popularity shows how leftover-style ingredients such as cooked rice and sauce can be transformed into something with a strong local identity.
Historical background
Supplì are Roman fried rice croquettes, historically sold as inexpensive snacks and closely associated with the city's street food and pizzerie. The phrase al telefono refers to the string of melted mozzarella that stretches between two halves when a hot supplì is pulled apart.
Why it is famous
They are famous for that dramatic mozzarella pull, but a good supplì is equally about the contrast between crisp breadcrumbs and well-seasoned tomato rice. Unlike many Sicilian arancini, the classic Roman version is usually smaller and elongated.
Cultural significance
Supplì remain a familiar Roman appetiser and takeaway snack, often eaten before pizza. Their popularity shows how leftover-style ingredients such as cooked rice and sauce can be transformed into something with a strong local identity.




