the best pizza in naples: a local’s guide to the birthplace of pizza
If you’re heading to Naples, Italy, there’s one question you have to ask: Where can I find the best pizza in Naples? But in this city where pizza was born, the answer depends on who you ask—locals, tourists, food critics, or your own tastebuds. Here’s your complete guide to finding—and truly appreciating—the best pizza in Naples.
A Slice of History: The Birthplace of Pizza
Naples is the undisputed birthplace of pizza. Long before pineapple and stuffed crusts, Neapolitans were baking flatbreads topped with tomatoes, garlic, oil, and basil in the 18th century. But it was the Margherita pizza, created in 1889 by pizzaiolo Raffaele Esposito for Queen Margherita of Savoy, that made history. The red tomato, white mozzarella, and green basil represented the colors of the Italian flag—and a culinary icon was born.
Today, traditional Neapolitan pizza is protected by the Associazione Verace Pizza Napoletana (AVPN), which enforces strict rules: the dough must be hand-kneaded, ingredients must be local (like San Marzano tomatoes and buffalo mozzarella), and it must be cooked in a wood-fired oven at 900°F for 60–90 seconds.
What Makes Real Neapolitan Pizza?
If you want to know if you’re eating the real deal in Naples, look for:
- Soft, chewy crust with a puffed, charred edge (called the cornicione)
- San Marzano tomatoes and mozzarella di bufala or fior di latte
- Cooked in a wood-fired oven in under 90 seconds
- Thin in the middle, served uncut (yes, really—locals use a knife and fork!)
It should be simple, fresh, and made with pride.
Where Locals Say the Best Pizza Is
Locals in Naples tend to avoid the mega-famous tourist spots in favor of old, no-frills pizzerias with queues of Neapolitans outside.
1. Pizzeria Da Concettina ai Tre Santi (Rione Sanità)
- A local favorite for generations, now run by a young pizzaiolo reimagining Neapolitan pizza with flair.
- Combines tradition with innovation—expect both Margherita and gourmet surprises.
2. Pizzeria Di Matteo (Via dei Tribunali)
- Known for its incredible pizza fritta (deep-fried pizza) as well as classic pies.
- Former U.S. President Bill Clinton famously visited here in the ’90s.
3. Pizzeria La Notizia (Via Caravaggio)
- Run by master pizzaiolo Enzo Coccia.
- Offers AVPN-approved classics with artisanal techniques.
Where Tourists Say the Best Pizza Is
Tourists often flock to pizzerias featured in guidebooks, TV shows, and Instagram—but that doesn’t mean they’re not good!
1. L’Antica Pizzeria Da Michele (Via Cesare Sersale)
- Made famous by Eat, Pray, Love and beloved for its simplicity.
- Only serves two pizzas: Margherita and Marinara.
- Expect long lines and quick service—but still one of the best pizzas in town.
2. Sorbillo (Via dei Tribunali)
- Gino Sorbillo is a pizza celebrity, and his pizzeria is wildly popular.
- Touristy? Yes. Worth it? Also yes—especially for the delicious crust and wide variety of toppings.
3. 50 Kalò (Piazza Sannazzaro)
- Frequently named among the best in Italy, especially by food critics.
- Owned by master pizzaiolo Ciro Salvo.
- Offers creative and refined versions of classic pizzas.
How to Know If It’s The Best Pizza
Here’s how to judge for yourself:
✅ Look at the crust: Is it blistered, airy, and slightly charred?
✅ Check the bottom: Is it soft but not soggy? Slightly chewy?
✅ Smell it: You should be able to smell the tomatoes, basil, and wood-fire.
✅ Taste it: The balance should be perfect: tangy tomato, creamy cheese, a bit of salt from the dough, and that smoky oven flavor.
✅ Watch the pizzaiolo: If they’re using long-handled peels, rotating the dough by eye, and tossing it confidently into a flaming oven—you’re in good hands.
The Naples Pizza Experience
Eating pizza in Naples isn’t just about food—it’s about ritual and experience. You might wait in line, sit elbow-to-elbow with strangers, and drink a Nastro Azzurro beer or a small glass of wine while devouring your personal pizza.
Don’t expect fancy service. Do expect:
- Passionate locals debating the best crusts
- Pizza served whole, often uncut
- A mess (and bliss) on your hands
Map of Must-Try Pizzerias
| Name | Neighborhood | What to Try |
|---|---|---|
| Da Michele | Centro Storico | Margherita, Marinara |
| Sorbillo | Via dei Tribunali | Diavola, Margherita |
| Di Matteo | Via dei Tribunali | Pizza fritta, Marinara |
| Concettina ai Tre Santi | Rione Sanità | Tasting menu, classic Margherita |
| La Notizia | Vomero/Caravaggio | Margherita, white pizzas |
| 50 Kalò | Piazza Sannazzaro | Margherita DOC, seasonal pizzas |
Final Thoughts
Naples is the home of pizza, and there’s no “best” pizza—only your best pizza. From humble marinara slices to gourmet creations with truffle oil and smoked mozzarella, Naples offers a spiritual journey through dough, fire, and flavor. Follow your nose, trust your gut, and don’t leave without tasting at least two (or three… or four) pizzerias.
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