Ah, Naples (or Napoli, as the locals would like to call it) – the capital city of Campania, where the sun shines a little brighter, the streets hum with life, and the aroma of freshly baked pizza dances through the air. If you’re anything like me, a visit to this vibrant city wouldn’t be complete without savouring some of the best pizza in Naples. But with many pizzerias claiming to serve the finest Neapolitan pizza, where do you start? Well – buckle up, foodies, because we’re about to embark on a delicious journey to uncover the hidden gems and iconic spots that locals swear by.
Antica Pizzeria Da Michele
Situated right in the beating heart of Naples, just a short stroll from the Piazza Garibaldi railway station, you’ll find the Antica Pizzeria da Michele, one of the oldest and most legendary pizzerias in Naples. This iconic establishment is still run by the same Condurro family, which is now on their fifth generation of pizza masters! This family tradition was founded by Michele Condurro, who believed deeply in allowing the authentic flavours of a pizza to shine through, letting the simple ingredients sing rather than competing for the spotlight.
So for this very reason, you’ll find the menu is refreshingly simple, offering only two classic options: the Marinara (tomato, garlic, oregano and olive oil) and the Margherita (tomato, fresh mozzarella, basil, salt and olive oil). You probably have already seen their pizza on the big screen, as this was where Julia Roberts was having a relationship with her Margherita pizza in the classic film “Eat, Pray, Love.”
Address: Via Cesare Sersale, 1, 80139 Napoli NA, Italy
Sorbillo
Next on our delicious adventure is Sorbillo, a family-operated pizzeria that is run by the Sorbillo Brothers and has now become a worldwide brand. Gino Sorbillo, the eldest of the pack, and now famously known as the “pizza chef” after his stint on MasterChef Italy and Australia, has garnered acclaim for his creative approach to toppings. While he remains devoted to the authentic flavours of Neapolitan pizza, the pizzas on the menu are enhanced with unique combinations that flirt with your palate. Whether you’re feeling adventurous or prefer to stay classic, Sorbillo has something for everyone!
Make sure you’re ready to queue, though, and remember — good things come to those who wait! Trust me; the moment you take a bite of that perfectly charred crust and glorious toppings, you’ll understand why it’s worth every moment.
Address: Via dei Tribunali, 32, 80138 Napoli NA
Dal Presidente
Located on Via dei Tribunali in the heart of old Naples, Dal Presidente Pizzeria is one of the city’s most iconic and historic pizzerias. As soon as you walk through the doors, you know you’re somewhere special—this place has been serving the best pizza for years and is truly an institution.
People line up down the street just to get a taste of their famous pies. And it’s totally worth the wait, I promise. But don’t fret; you don’t have to wait long to score a table, though – the turnover is quick, so you’ll be stuffing your faces with some of the best pizza known to man in no time. Be sure to get an order of the fried frittatina or crocchè too – they are insanely delicious.
Address: Via dei Tribunali, 120, 80138 Napoli NA, Italy
Di Matteo
Another local joint in Naples is Di Matteo, located on via dei Tribunali (where all the best pizzerias reign). The pizza here is cooked to absolute perfection in their massive wooden oven at over 500°C —it’s piping hot heaven in your mouth! You must try their lovely Panino Napoletano or arancino – your tastebuds will thank you endlessly!
And don’t worry about the long queue. Just give the friendly staff your name and relax with a crisp beer while you wait for your turn to be seated. But if you’re in a rush and simply can’t wait, Di Matteo also has amazing takeaway pizza. On the ground floor of this two-storey establishment, you’ll find a wonderful selection of “pizza a portfolio”—the perfect handheld pizza to enjoy on the go.
Address: Via dei Tribunali, 94, 80138 Napoli NA, Italy
Pizzeria Starita
Have you ever had a pizza where you could literally taste the history? At Pizzeria Starita, that’s exactly what happens. Established in 1901, this bustling pizzeria has been serving locals with wholesome goodness for generations. It has also appeared in many classic Italian films from the golden era, such as ‘The Gold of Naples’ starring Sofia Loren and Vittorio De Sica.
To this day, it continues to serve some of the finest pizza in the city, with a reputation for quality, authenticity, and efficiency. Remarkably, almost 800 pizzas leave the premises each day from its single wood-fired oven. The place is clearly a well-oiled operation, churning out delicious Neapolitan pies for the local community and tourists who visit the area. But if you’re not in Naples, don’t worry! Starita has begun to expand globally and even has a newly-opened pizzeria in Bangkok.
Address: Via Materdei, 27/28, 80136 Napoli NA, Italy
Pizzeria Brandi
Brandi is perhaps the most exciting pizzeria in all of Naples, as it was here that the iconic Margherita pizza was born. Dating back to 1780, this establishment was originally called “Pietro… e Basta così, ” which translates to “Peter… and that’s it,” but the name has since been updated to the now world-famous Brandi.
Stepping inside Brandi is like taking a step back in time – the history practically oozes from its ancient brick walls. But more than that, you can palpably feel the pride in being the birthplace of the Margherita, created here way back in 1889 by the talented hands of Raffaele Esposito himself. The story goes that he crafted this magnificent pizza specially for Queen Margherita, using the red, white and green of the Italian flag in its topping to honour her.
Address: Salita S. Anna di Palazzo, 1/2, 80132 Napoli NA, Italy
50 Kaló
Snagging a place as one of the best pizzerias in the Michelin guide, 50 Kaló is an absolutely phenomenal dining experience that you need to try once in your life. Situated right on the border of the upscale Chiaia and Posillipo neighbourhoods, this hotspot has established itself as the place to see and be seen among Naples’ wealthiest residents. With incredible wine and what may just be the best pizza in the entire city, all alongside the gorgeous waterfront, it’s no wonder this place is always packed!
While it will set you back a bit more than pizzerias in the centre, let me tell you, one bite of their perfect, mouthwatering Neapolitan pies paired and you’ll immediately understand why they charge a few euros extra – the quality simply can’t be beat.
Address: Piazza Sannazaro, 201/c, 80121 Napoli NA, Italy
Pizzeria Oliva da Carla e Salvatore
Ask any local in La Sanità who Salvatore and Carla are, and they’ll know exactly who you’re talking about. This famous pizza-loving couple runs Pizzeria Oliva, together with their sons. Known throughout their neighbourhood as the king and queen of pizza, Salvatore crafts mouthwateringly magical pies like no one else. Meanwhile, Carla will sweep you off your feet with her warm Italian hospitality. As soon as you walk through the door, you’ll feel like you’re part of the family.
After a morning exploring the crypts and catacombs, you’ll be ravenous – and there’s no better place to refuel than Pizzeria Oliva. Sitting proudly in the beautiful square by the stunning Santa Maria church, it’s the perfect pitstop for lunch or a quick snack.
Address: Via Sanità, 11/12, 80135 Napoli NA, Italy
