Hey pizza lovers! If you're planning a trip to Naples, Italy, then you're in for a treat. Naples is the birthplace of pizza, and it's home to some of the best pizza in the world. Neapolitan pizza, or pizza napoletana, is a culinary experience you absolutely can't miss. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know to find the most authentic and delicious pizza in Naples.

What Makes Neapolitan Pizza Special?

Before diving into where to find the best pizza napoletana in Napoli, let's talk about what makes it so special. True Neapolitan pizza adheres to strict guidelines set by the Associazione Verace Pizza Napoletana (AVPN). Here’s a breakdown:

• Dough: The dough is made with only four ingredients: 00 flour, water, salt, and yeast. It's kneaded by hand and left to rise for at least eight hours.
• Tomatoes: San Marzano tomatoes, grown in the volcanic plains south of Mount Vesuvius, are a must. These tomatoes are known for their sweetness and low acidity.
• Cheese: Fresh fior di latte mozzarella (made from cow's milk) or mozzarella di bufala Campana (made from buffalo milk) are used.
• Baking: The pizza is cooked in a wood-fired oven at extremely high temperatures (around 900°F or 480°C) for no more than 60-90 seconds. This gives it a slightly charred, blistered crust.

The result is a pizza with a soft, pliable crust, a tangy tomato sauce, and creamy, melted cheese. The simplicity of the ingredients and the traditional cooking methods are what make Neapolitan pizza so unique and delicious. It's a culinary art form perfected over centuries, and when you taste it, you'll understand why Naples is the pizza capital of the world.

Top Pizzerias in Naples for Authentic Neapolitan Pizza

Alright, guys, let's get to the good stuff – where to find the best pizza napoletana in Napoli. Here are some top-notch pizzerias that consistently deliver an authentic and unforgettable pizza experience. Each of these places brings something special to the table, so you might want to try them all!

L'Antica Pizzeria da Michele

L'Antica Pizzeria da Michele is arguably the most famous pizzeria in Naples, and for good reason. Founded in 1870, this historic spot has been serving up traditional Neapolitan pizza for generations. They keep it simple, offering only two options: Margherita (tomato, mozzarella, and basil) and Marinara (tomato, garlic, oregano, and olive oil). This minimalist approach allows them to focus on the quality of their ingredients and the perfection of their technique.

When you visit Da Michele, be prepared for a wait – it's incredibly popular. But trust me, the wait is worth it. The pizza here is a true masterpiece, with a thin, soft crust, flavorful sauce, and perfectly melted cheese. It's an experience that every pizza lover should have at least once in their lifetime. The no-frills atmosphere adds to the charm, making you feel like you've stepped back in time to experience authentic Neapolitan pizza as it was meant to be. Don't expect anything fancy; just expect incredible pizza.

The simplicity of their menu is a testament to their confidence in the quality of their ingredients and the skill of their pizzaiolos. Each pizza is a work of art, crafted with precision and care. The dough is light and airy, the sauce is bursting with flavor, and the mozzarella is creamy and rich. It's a symphony of flavors that will leave you wanting more. Da Michele isn't just a pizzeria; it's a piece of Neapolitan history, and a visit here is a pilgrimage for pizza aficionados from around the globe. So, grab a number, soak in the atmosphere, and get ready for one of the best pizza experiences of your life!

Gino Sorbillo Lievito Madre al Mare

Gino Sorbillo Lievito Madre al Mare is another must-visit pizzeria in Naples. Located on the waterfront, this spot offers stunning views of the sea along with its delicious pizza. Gino Sorbillo is a well-known name in the pizza world, and his pizzerias are known for their high-quality ingredients and innovative toppings.

At Lievito Madre al Mare, you can enjoy classic Neapolitan pizzas as well as more creative options. The dough is made with natural yeast (lievito madre), which gives it a unique flavor and texture. The toppings are fresh and seasonal, and the pizzas are cooked to perfection in a wood-fired oven. The atmosphere is lively and modern, making it a great place to enjoy a meal with friends or family.

One of the highlights of Sorbillo Lievito Madre al Mare is the use of lievito madre, or mother yeast, in their dough. This natural yeast gives the pizza a distinct flavor profile that sets it apart from other pizzerias. The dough is light, airy, and easy to digest, making it a perfect choice for those who want to indulge without feeling heavy. The restaurant's location on the waterfront adds to the experience, providing stunning views of the sea and creating a relaxed and enjoyable atmosphere. Whether you're a fan of classic Neapolitan pizzas or looking to try something new, Sorbillo Lievito Madre al Mare is a great choice. The combination of quality ingredients, innovative toppings, and a beautiful setting makes it a standout destination for pizza lovers in Naples.

Starita a Materdei

Starita a Materdei is a family-run pizzeria that has been serving up delicious pizza since 1901. Located in the Materdei neighborhood, this historic spot is a favorite among locals and tourists alike. Starita is known for its traditional Neapolitan pizzas as well as its creative and innovative offerings.

One of the standout dishes at Starita is the Montanara Starita, a fried pizza topped with tomato sauce, cheese, and basil. It's a must-try for anyone visiting Naples. The pizzeria also offers a variety of other fried snacks, such as arancini and crocchè. The atmosphere is warm and welcoming, and the service is friendly and attentive.

What sets Starita a Materdei apart is its commitment to tradition combined with a willingness to experiment. While they excel at classic Neapolitan pizzas, they also offer a range of creative toppings and preparations that showcase the versatility of pizza. The Montanara Starita is a perfect example of this, combining the crispy, savory goodness of fried dough with the classic flavors of tomato, cheese, and basil. The pizzeria's long history and family-run atmosphere add to its charm, making it a place where you can feel the passion and dedication that goes into every pizza. Whether you're looking for a traditional Neapolitan pizza or something a little more adventurous, Starita a Materdei is a must-visit destination for any pizza lover in Naples.

Pizzeria Concettina ai Tre Santi

Pizzeria Concettina ai Tre Santi is a hidden gem in the Sanità neighborhood of Naples. This family-run pizzeria is known for its dedication to using high-quality, locally sourced ingredients. Ciro Oliva, the pizzaiolo, is passionate about preserving the traditions of Neapolitan pizza while also pushing the boundaries with innovative toppings and techniques.

At Concettina ai Tre Santi, you can enjoy classic Neapolitan pizzas as well as more creative options. The dough is made with a blend of different flours, which gives it a unique flavor and texture. The toppings are fresh and seasonal, and the pizzas are cooked to perfection in a wood-fired oven. The atmosphere is cozy and welcoming, and the service is friendly and attentive.

Concettina ai Tre Santi stands out for its commitment to social responsibility and its dedication to the local community. The pizzeria sources its ingredients from local farmers and producers, supporting the regional economy and ensuring the freshness and quality of its pizzas. Ciro Oliva is also involved in various social projects in the Sanità neighborhood, working to improve the lives of the residents. The pizzeria's dedication to quality, innovation, and social responsibility makes it a truly special place. Whether you're a local or a tourist, a visit to Concettina ai Tre Santi is an opportunity to experience Neapolitan pizza at its finest and to support a business that is making a positive impact on its community. The combination of delicious pizza, a welcoming atmosphere, and a commitment to social good makes it a must-visit destination for anyone looking for the best pizza napoletana in Napoli.

Tips for Enjoying Pizza in Naples

Okay, now that you know where to go, here are a few tips to make the most of your pizza experience in Naples:

• Go Early or Be Prepared to Wait: The best pizzerias can get crowded, especially during peak hours. Try to go early or be prepared to wait in line.
• Order a Margherita: This is the classic Neapolitan pizza, and it's a great way to judge the quality of a pizzeria.
• Don't Be Afraid to Try New Things: While the Margherita is a must, don't be afraid to try other toppings and variations.
• Eat It Hot: Neapolitan pizza is best enjoyed fresh out of the oven. Don't let it sit for too long before digging in.
• Fold It in Half: This is the traditional way to eat Neapolitan pizza. Folding it makes it easier to handle and allows you to savor all the flavors.
• Enjoy the Atmosphere: Pizzerias in Naples are often lively and bustling places. Embrace the chaos and enjoy the energy.

Final Thoughts

Finding the best pizza napoletana in Napoli is a culinary adventure that you won't soon forget. From the historic pizzerias to the innovative newcomers, Naples offers a pizza experience like no other. So, grab a slice, soak in the atmosphere, and enjoy the taste of authentic Neapolitan pizza in the city where it all began. Buon appetito!