Can I have it without mozzarella?
moz-za-REL-la — four syllables, stress on third. Double 'zz' sounds like 'ts'.
When you are dairy-free, lactose intolerant, or simply prefer your pizza without cheese.
Asking to remove mozzarella requires replacing it with something or accepting a tomato-only base. Italian pizzerias are generally flexible about modifications, though removing the central ingredient may get a raised eyebrow.
Sono vegano — fate la pizza senza formaggio?
I am vegan — do you make pizza without cheese?
Context-setting — 'vegano' is widely understood in modern Italy
Con la mozzarella di bufala invece?
With buffalo mozzarella instead?
Upgrade option — buffalo mozzarella ('di bufala') is richer and more flavourful than cow's milk
Mettete la mozzarella dopo la cottura?
Do you put the mozzarella on after cooking?
Some pizzas (like the DOC) have fresh mozzarella added post-oven to preserve its texture
The pizza marinara — tomato, garlic, oregano, olive oil, no cheese — is actually the oldest Neapolitan pizza, predating the margherita by decades. It was created by fishermen's wives ('marinare') and is completely vegan. It is also the best test of tomato quality.