Whoever first said, “Vedi Napoli e poi muori,” or “See Naples and die,” surely wasn’t only talking about its spectacular location. With views of Mount Vesuvius and set majestically upon the shores of the Mediterranean Sea, Naples touts 7 castles, a wealth of historical museums, excellent shopping, vibrant markets, and food that is, well, to die for. On that list: la vera pizza napulitana.
Although you can find pizza anywhere in the world, to achieve an authentic experience you must adventure to its birthplace. Here is our list of the Top 5 pizzerias in Naples.
Sorbillo
Located in a working class neighborhood in the historic center of Naples, Sorbillo may possibly be the best pizza in Naples. Sorbillo’s owner, Gino Sorbillo, isn’t only known for his award-winning skills as a pizzaiolo, but also for his resistance to the mafia. The pizzeria was set on fire by the Camorra in 2015, and Sorbillo simply put chairs outside for clients and seemed unscathed. However, nothing seems to deter the mass of people constantly waiting outside the doors for an impressive lineup of pizzas that will satisfy any palate!
Via dei Tribunali, 32, 80138 Napoli; http://www.sorbillo.it/; Open Monday through Saturday noon to 3:30 pm and 7 pm to midnight. Closed on Sunday.
I Decumani
If you are looking for vegetarian options or Naples’ famed pizza fritt’ (fried pizza), look no further. Also located in the historic center, I Decumani offers more than 40 kinds of pizzas with a light, wood-fired crust, fresh tomatoes, and the service is quick. The owners boast that one will experience the true colors and culture of Naples in every bite. Take a pizza on the go or sit at one of the tables and enjoy the fun decor! As they say in Neapolitan: ‘a pizza è ‘na canzone doce e nnuje ‘a sapimme sunà! Pizza is a sweet song and we know how to play it!
Via dei Tribunali 60/61, 80138 Napoli; https://pizzeriadecumani.it/; Open every day from noon to 4 pm and 7 pm to midnight.
L’Antica Pizzeria da Michele
In 1870, the Condurro family gave birth to a long line of pizzaioli, or pizza masters, right in the heart of Naples. This ancient pizzeria uses top quality ingredients from the Campania region to offer only 2 pizzas on the menu, but don’t worry; they won’t disappoint. From the flour, to the oil, to the fior di latte cheese, you cannot get a pizza like this elsewhere in Naples. We suggest the pizza margherita, made with tradition, simplicity, and love. With celebrities who have frequented the place, there are many photos immortalized on the walls. Our favorite seat is next to Julia Roberts (or at least her photo from when she visited the pizzeria while on the set of Eat, Pray, Love)!
Via Cesare Sersale, 1, 80139 Napoli; www.damichele.net; Open Monday through Saturday from 11 am to 11 pm. Closed on Sundays.
Pizzeria dal Presidente
For over 50 years, the Pizzeria dal Presidente has been serving authentic Neapolitan pizza, staying true to ancient tradition and using all local ingredients. While all of the pizzas delight, our favorites include those with Piennolo cherry tomatoes grown from the rich soil surrounding Mount Vesuvius, mozzarella from the Campania region, and our personal favorite: pizza con salsiccia e friarielli (pizza with sausage and broccoli rabe). You might also try one of their famed fried pizzas, stuffed with fresh ricotta and spicy salami.
Via dei Tribunali, 120, 80138 Napoli; www.dalpresidentepizzeria.it/napoli; Open daily noon to 11:30 pm.
Pizzeria Brandi
Opening its doors in 1780, the Pizzeria Brandi prides itself as being the namesake of the the famed pizza margherita. In June 1889, the owners of the pizzeria, Raffaele Esposito and Maria Giovanna Brandi, were officially invited to provide pizzas for a ball at the Royal Palace of Capodimonte when Naples King Umberto I and Queen Margherita di Savoia were visiting Naples. And so Raffaele and his wife, Maria, went to Capodimonte aboard a cart pulled by a mule and served up three varieties of pizza: a white pizza with olive oil, cheese, and basil, a pizza with cecenielle, or newly born sardines, and finally, according to legend, a pizza which featured the colors of the Italian flag created with tomatoes (red), mozzarella (white), and basil (green). As the Queen especially appreciated the final pizza, Raffaele Esposito paid homage by naming the pizza after her. And thus the birth of the Pizza Margherita in June 1889. In fact, an official document of gratitude sent by a royal representative is still on display at Pizzeria Brandi as well as a historical plaque posted on the wall outside of the restaurant.
Today, the Pizzeria Brandi offers not only pizza, but also many regional specialties such as homemade sausages, fried mozzarella sandwiches, provolone cheese served with fennel, and various seafood fares. If you love a good story, delicious food, and a warm atmosphere, head to Pizzeria Brandi during your next trip to Naples!
Salita Sant’Anna di Palazzo 1/2, 80132, Napoli; www.brandi.it; Open Tuesday through Saturday from 12:30 pm to 4 pm and 7:30 pm to midnight. Closed on Mondays.
