Pancetta is, in many ways, similar to conventional bacon. In fact, it is not uncommon to see one used in place of the other. However, pancetta is a distinctly different item with properties that make it a stronger choice for certain dishes.
Pancetta is like bacon in the sense that it also comes in the form of pork belly meat. What makes it different is how it is prepared. Bacon is invariably cut into thin strips, while pancetta will either appear as a thin strip or be cut into small cubes. Further, pancetta is cured with salt and possibly an assortment of spices and aromatics to give it the enticing flavor that fans love it for, while bacon is cured and smoked. Chefs will reach for bacon when they want to give their dishes a smokier flavor, and reserve pancetta for a flavorful but non-smoky alternative.
You can try the great taste of pancetta for yourself at our Italian restaurant in Bothell in the form of our grilled chicken romaine salad, prepared with chicken breast, whole leaf romaine, kalamata olives, tomatoes, sweet peppers, parmesan, and pancetta.