Find the best pizza in Naples with our guide to 10 authentic pizzerias serving mouthwatering Neapolitan pies in Italy’s pizza capital.
As someone who’s explored the narrow streets of Naples in pursuit of the perfect pizza, I can confidently say there’s nothing quite like biting into an authentic Neapolitan pie! The combination of pillowy, yet charred, crust, bright San Marzano tomatoes, and creamy mozzarella creates a symphony of flavors unmatched anywhere else in the world.
For anyone planning a trip to Italy, knowing where to find the best pizza in Naples is essential knowledge, this is the birthplace of pizza, where centuries of tradition meet strict standards for what constitutes a “true” Neapolitan pie.
our awards:
Best Overall Neapolitan Pizza:Sorbillo
Best Historic Pizza Experience: Antica Pizzeria Port’Alba
Best Simple & Classic Pizza: L’Antica Pizzeria Da Michele
Best Fried Pizza: La Masardona
Best Marinara Pizza: Starita Pizza
Best Modern Artisanal Pizza: 50 Kalò
best pizza in naples
1. 🍕 Gino e Toto Sorbillo
When locals talk about Naples pizza, Gino Sorbillo’s name inevitably comes up. This third-generation family pizzeria has become legendary, and for good reason. Located on Via dei Tribunali (often called the “street of pizza”), Sorbillo represents everything authentic about Neapolitan pizza culture.
The Sorbillo family story is remarkable: grandparents Luigi Sorbillo and Carolina Esposito founded their first pizzeria in 1935 and had 21 children, all of whom became pizza chefs! Gino’s father, Salvatore, is the nineteenth of these twenty-one children, and Gino has carried forward the family tradition while adding his own contemporary flair.
Our experience:
We ate lunch here and were blown away by the Diavola pizza! The crust was perfectly charred with that signature thin center and puffy edges. What really stood out was the excellent sauce-to-cheese ratio, not too cheesy, just right. The Salame Vesuvio (spicy Napoli-style salami) added the perfect kick, and while it was slightly greasy, it wasn’t overdone. We paired it with their special red craft beer “Casa Sorbillo” served in wine glasses (yes, beer in wine glasses, very Italian!), which complemented the spicy salami perfectly.
What we ordered:
- DIAVOLA – Salame Vesuvio Tipo Napoli, Pomodoro Italiano, Fiordilatte Misto Latte di Bufala Del Matese, Peperoncino, Olio Extra Vergine D’Oliva Italiano, Basilico Fresco – €7.90 ($9.16)
- Birra Artigianale “Casa Sorbillo” (craft beer) – €5.50 ($6.38)
What to know before you visit:
- Operating since 1935, with a cool interior featuring brick arches and old tile floors
- Large indoor dining room with AC (a relief in summer!)
- Open during regular siesta hours when many places are closed
- Communal tables create a lively, social atmosphere
- They bring plates for sharin,g and the pizza comes uncut
- Water served in plastic cups (very casual vibe)
- Lines can stretch up to an hour, but turnover is surprisingly fast
- Hours: 12:00 PM to 3:00 PM for lunch and 7:00 PM to 11:00 PM for dinner (closed Sundays)
The Michelin Guide recognizes this spot as one of Naples’ finest, and after eating here, we totally understand why!
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2. 🍕 Antica Pizzeria Port'Alba
Step into history at Antica Pizzeria Port’Alba, officially recognized as “The oldest pizzeria in Naples still in operation”! First established in 1738 (that’s the 18th century!), it became a proper sit-down pizzeria in 1830 at Via Port’Alba 18. This place has been serving pizza for nearly 300 years, making it one of the oldest pizzerias in the world.
Most patrons were artists, students, or people with very little money, so pizzas were simple with toppings like oil and garlic. They even developed a payment system called “pizza a otto” that allowed customers to pay up to eight days after their meal!
Our experience:
We ate lunch here and loved the historic atmosphere! The pizzeria is located under “Porta delle Sciuscelle” (or Porta delle Carrube), a gate built in 1625. The service was excellent (we even got a photo with our server!), and there’s a small outdoor dining area plus indoor and upstairs seating. They gave us complimentary limoncello after dinner, which was a nice touch. They also have customer bathrooms, which are always appreciated!
We tried the Pizza Amatriciana, and it was delicious, the guanciale (pork jowl) and pecorino cheese combination was incredible! However, we also ordered the Fritta classica (fried pizza), and while it’s a unique experience, we’d recommend skipping it unless you really love fried dough and cheese. It’s basically a regular-sized pizza folded in half and fried (like a calzone but fried), and it’s massive, definitely needs to be shared!
What we ordered:
- Pizza Amatriciana – Pomodoro San Marzano, Guanciale Amatrice, Provola di Agerola, Pecorino, Peperoncino piccante, Cipolla ramata di Montoro, Basilico, Olio extravergine – €10 ($11.60)
- Fritta classica (classic fried pizza) – Ricotta di pecora, cicoli di maiale, provola, pepe – €8 ($9.28)
What to know before you visit:
- One of the oldest pizzerias in the world, operating since 1738!
- Located in the cultural center between Via Costantinopoli and the Conservatory of Music
- Open daily from 11:00 AM to 12:00 AM
- Small outdoor dining area with indoor and upstairs seating
- Excellent service and complimentary limoncello!
- Historic location under a gate built in 1625
The location near Piazza Dante makes it easy to combine with sightseeing!
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3. 🍕 Starita Pizza
Located in the Materdei neighborhood, Starita has been operating since 1901 and represents authentic, family-run Neapolitan pizza at its finest. Run by Don Antonio Starita alongside his wife Rosaria and their children, Peppe and Mena, this pizzeria starred in the 1954 film “L’oro di Napoli,” featuring Sophia Loren!
Our experience:
We ate lunch here and really loved this pizza! We ordered the Marinara Starita, and wow, the balance between the sauce and the crispy yet tender crust was remarkable. The datterino tomatoes added a slightly sweet flavor, elevating the classic marinara. It’s perfectly shareable, and we’re already planning to come back next time to try a spicy meat version!
The beer selection was great too, with local craft options around €4-5 ($4.64-$5.80) each. The true star here is the Montanara, a fried pizza with provola cheese and their secret sauce that will fundamentally change your understanding of what pizza can be.
What we ordered:
- Marinara Starita – Passata di Pomodoro, Pomodoro Datterino, Pecorino Romano DOP, Aglio, Origano, Pepe, Basilico – €8.50 ($9.86)
- Beers – €4-5 ($4.64-$5.80) each
What to know before you visit:
- Operating since 1901 with over 120 years of family tradition
- Famous for the Montanara (fried pizza) with provola cheese and secret sauce
- Open Tuesday through Sunday from 12:00 PM to 3:30 PM and 7:00 PM to 12:00 AM (closed Mondays)
- Reservations are accepted and highly recommended
- Seats over 60 people, so tables are often available even during busy times
- Most pizzas range from €6-12 ($6.96-$13.92)
- The Frittatina di Pasta appetizer is highly recommended
The atmosphere is warm and modern, with photos of celebrities who’ve visited adorning the walls. Despite being located slightly outside the main tourist center near the Archaeological Museum, it’s worth the trip!
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4. L'Antica Pizzeria Da Michele
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If you’ve seen “Eat, Pray, Love,” you already know about Da Michele! This is the iconic pizzeria where Julia Roberts sat and savored what she called the best pizza in the world. Founded in 1870 by Michele Condurro, whose grandfather was a pizza maker at the court of the Bourbons, this institution has been perfecting its craft for over 150 years.
What makes Da Michele unique is its radical simplicity. The menu offers only two types of pizza: Marinara (tomato, garlic, oregano) and Margherita (tomato, mozzarella, basil). Recently, they’ve added the Cosacca (tomato, pecorino, basil) and Marita (half Margherita, half Marinara), but the philosophy remains the same – do a few things perfectly rather than many things adequately.
The atmosphere is no-frills and wonderfully authentic. We recommend the classic Margherita to experience why this place has maintained its reputation for nearly 155 years. The fresh mozzarella is exceptional, and the slightly charred crust provides that perfect Neapolitan texture.
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5. Di Matteo
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When President Bill Clinton visited Naples for the 1994 G7 Summit, he made Di Matteo his pizza stop of choice, and locals have been proud of this endorsement ever since! This historic pizzeria offers both sit-down dining and a famous street window for pizza on the go.
What sets Di Matteo apart is their pizza fritta, deep-fried pizza filled with ricotta, provola cheese, and tomato sauce. This is Naples street food at its absolute finest. This is the place to experience the traditional “street-za” culture that has defined Naples for generations.
We recommend ordering from the street window for a quick, casual experience or sitting down for a more leisurely meal. The location is perfect for people-watching while enjoying your pizza, and the prices remain accessible to everyone. The combination of history, presidential approval, and authentic Neapolitan flavors makes Di Matteo a must-visit on any pizza tour of Naples!
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6. 50 Kalò
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For those seeking a more modern interpretation of Neapolitan pizza without sacrificing tradition, 50 Kalò is the answer! Master pizzaiolo Ciro Salvo opened this pizzeria in 2014 in the Mergellina neighborhood, and it quickly became one of only six pizzerias in Italy recognized by the Michelin Guide.
The name is meaningful: in the Neapolitan tradition of dream interpretation, 50 represents bread (dough), while “kalò” comes from Greek, meaning “good” – together, “good dough.” This philosophy defines everything Salvo creates. His pizzas feature high-hydration dough with low protein content, making them exceptionally light and digestible.
The atmosphere is decidedly modern and bright, embracing natural wines and craft beers. While it’s located away from the historic center, the quality makes the taxi ride worthwhile.
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7. La Notizia
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Worth the trek outside the tourist center, La Notizia is where pizzaiolo Enzo Coccia takes an artisanal approach to pizza making that has earned him international recognition. Coccia’s attention to detail and commitment to quality ingredients set this pizzeria apart.
We particularly recommend trying their specialty white pizzas (pizza bianca), which showcase Coccia’s creativity and technical mastery. The chef carefully sources every ingredient, from the flour to the toppings, ensuring each component contributes to the final product. The restaurant offers a more refined dining experience compared to some of the more casual pizzerias, though it maintains the warmth and authenticity that define Neapolitan pizza culture.
La Notizia accepts reservations, which we strongly suggest making, especially for dinner service. The location may be outside the historic center, but the quality of pizza and the overall experience make it worth the journey!
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8. Pizzeria Brandi
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For pizza with a pedigree, Brandi claims the title of birthplace of the Pizza Margherita! In 1889, pizzaiolo Raffaele Esposito created a pizza with tomato, mozzarella, and basil to honor Queen Margherita of Savoy, using colors representing the Italian flag. Whether or not this story is entirely accurate, Brandi has maintained this tradition with pride.
Brandi offers a more upscale dining experience compared to many traditional pizzerias. The restaurant serves both traditional and creative pies, but we recommend sticking with the classic Margherita here, it’s what they’re famous for. It delivers on the promise of history in every bite.
The atmosphere is more refined than that of typical Neapolitan pizzerias, with attentive service and a comfortable dining room. Prices reflect this upscale positioning, but for the historical significance and quality of the pizza, it’s a worthwhile splurge during your Naples visit!
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9. La Masardona
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Did you know that Naples has a whole tradition of fried pizza? 🍕 La Masardona, operating since 1945, specializes in pizza fritta and has perfected this art over nearly 80 years. This is the place to experience this unique Neapolitan tradition!
What makes their fried pizza special is the dough, light, crispy on the outside, and tender on the inside, filled with ricotta, provola, tomato, and other traditional ingredients. We recommend ordering the classic version to understand why this street food has remained beloved by Neapolitans for generations.
The preparation involves frying the pizza dough until golden, then filling it with your choice of ingredients. It’s more decadent and more indulgent than traditional baked pizza, making it perfect for a mid-afternoon snack or a different pizza experience altogether. Prices are reasonable, and the casual atmosphere is welcoming to tourists and locals alike!
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10. Pizzeria Lombardi 1892
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Located near the Archaeological Museum in North Naples, Lombardi has been serving pizza since 1892, making it one of the city’s oldest pizzerias. This family-run establishment represents more than a century of pizza-making tradition.
We recommend Lombardi as the perfect lunch spot before or after your visit to the Archaeological Museum. Their specialty smoked provola cheese pizza showcases how traditional Neapolitan pizza can incorporate regional ingredients without straying from authentic techniques. The location makes it convenient for tourists, while maintaining the authentic character that defines the best Naples pizzerias.
The family tradition spanning over 130 years means the recipes have been refined across generations. The atmosphere is warm and welcoming, with efficient service that respects both the pizza-making craft and your time as a visitor to Naples!
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How to Order Pizza Like a Local
Essential Italian Pizza Vocabulary
Ordering pizza in Naples doesn’t require fluency in Italian, but knowing a few key phrases enhances your experience. Here are the essentials:
Basic ordering phrases:
- “Una margherita, per favore” (A Margherita, please)
- “Posso ordinare?” (Can I order?)
- “Il conto, per favore” (The bill, please)
- “Da asporto” (For takeaway)
- “Senza [ingredient]” (Without [ingredient])
Most pizzerias display their menu on the wall or provide a simple paper menu. The format is straightforward: pizza name, ingredients, and price. Don’t expect extensive descriptions, Neapolitans know what they want and order accordingly.
Common Pizza Mistakes Tourists Make
We’ve observed several mistakes that tourists frequently make when ordering pizza in Naples. First, don’t ask for toppings like pineapple or chicken, these aren’t part of traditional Neapolitan pizza. Second, pizza in Naples is meant to be eaten with a fork and knife, not folded New York-style. The center is often too soft and saucy to support folding.
Third, don’t be surprised by the size. Neapolitan pizzas are large and meant for one person, but the dough is light enough that you can finish it without feeling overly full. Fourth, avoid ordering multiple courses before pizza, the pizza IS the meal. You might order an appetizer like arancini or frittatina, but keep it light.
Tipping Customs for Pizza Restaurants vs. Takeaway
Tipping culture in Naples differs significantly from American customs. For sit-down restaurants, leaving €1-2 ($1.16-$2.32) per person is appropriate, or rounding up the bill. There’s often a “coperto” (cover charge) of €1-2 already included in your bill, which covers bread and table service.
For takeaway pizza or eating at the street window, tipping isn’t expected, though you can leave small change if you received exceptional service. Never feel pressured to leave American-style 15-20% tips, this isn’t the local custom and isn’t expected!
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When to Eat Pizza in Naples
Best Times to Avoid Crowds
Timing your pizza meal strategically can make a significant difference in your experience. We recommend these strategies:
Smart timing for lunch:
- Arrive right when pizzerias open (typically noon or 12:30 PM)
- Visit after 2:00 PM when the rush subsides
- Weekdays are less crowded than weekends
Smart timing for dinner:
- Arrive early (7:00-7:30 PM) before the main rush
- Visit after 9:30 PM when families with children have mostly left
- Saturday evenings are the busiest, plan accordingly
- Make reservations at pizzerias that accept them, especially for dinner
If you’re visiting during peak tourist season (June-August), expect longer waits regardless of the time of day. Consider visiting popular spots during off-peak hours or exploring lesser-known neighborhood pizzerias!
Lunch vs. Dinner Pizza Traditions
In Naples, pizza is acceptable for both lunch and dinner, though locals often prefer it for dinner. Lunch pizza tends to be more casual and quick, with many people ordering takeaway to eat at work or in nearby piazzas. Dinner is when families gather for a more leisurely pizza meal, often arriving after 8:00 PM.
The quality of pizza doesn’t vary by meal, you’ll get the same excellent product whether you visit for lunch or dinner. However, the atmosphere differs significantly. Lunch feels more hurried and practical, while dinner embraces the social aspect of dining out.
Why Many Locals Prefer Takeaway
Walk past any popular pizzeria, and you’ll notice locals ordering from the takeaway window or calling for delivery rather than dining in. Several reasons explain this preference. First, waiting for a table can take 30-60 minutes at popular spots, while takeaway is typically ready in 10-15 minutes.
Second, pizza is considered casual food in Naples, the equivalent of grabbing a sandwich elsewhere. Many locals prefer eating at home or in a nearby piazza rather than the more formal sit-down experience. Third, takeaway prices are sometimes slightly lower than eating in, though not always.
This doesn’t mean you should skip the dine-in experience, watching the pizzaioli work their magic in the wood-fired ovens is part of the Naples pizza experience! But don’t hesitate to order takeaway if you’re short on time or want to enjoy your pizza with a view of the Bay of Naples.
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Pizza Making Experiences in Naples
For those wanting to go beyond eating pizza to understanding the craft, several excellent options for hands-on pizza-making classes in Naples exist. These experiences typically last 2-3 hours and include instruction on dough preparation, sauce making, proper stretching techniques, and wood-fired oven management.
We recommend booking these experiences in advance, as they fill quickly, especially during tourist season. Classes typically cost €50-80 ($58-$92.80) per person and include all ingredients, instruction, and, of course, eating your creations! Some pizzerias offer the opportunity to work alongside their master pizzaioli during slower hours, though these exclusive experiences require advance arrangement.
Learning to make authentic Neapolitan pizza provides context for appreciating the skill involved in what might appear simple. The techniques of stretching dough without a rolling pin, achieving the right temperature in the wood-fired oven, and timing the addition of toppings all require practice and precision that become clear when you attempt them yourself.
Many participants report that taking a pizza class early in their Naples visit enhances their appreciation for every pizza they eat afterward. You’ll notice details like dough texture, char patterns, and ingredient quality that you might have overlooked before!
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🍕 Ready to Start Your Pizza Adventure? 🇮🇹
The best pizza in Naples isn’t found in just one place. It’s discovered through exploring the city’s diverse pizzerias, each with its own story to tell about this beloved dish. From the no-frills perfection of Da Michele to the innovative craft of 50 Kalò, from the fried revelations at La Masardona to the historic charm of Brandi, every pizzeria offers something unique. We recommend sampling several during your visit rather than declaring one the absolute best.
Your Naples pizza journey is personal, and your favorite spot might surprise you. What matters is experiencing the flavors, traditions, and stories that make each pizzeria special. The city’s pizza culture has thrived for over a century because it combines profound respect for tradition with room for creativity. So grab a fork and knife, order that Margherita, and remember: in Naples, even the “worst” pizza is still pretty incredible!
Have you tried authentic Neapolitan pizza? What’s your favorite pizzeria in Naples? Let me know in the comments below!
FAQs
How much does authentic Neapolitan pizza cost?
One of the most surprising aspects of Naples pizza is how affordable it remains despite its world-renowned quality! Traditional pizzerias typically charge €4-8 ($4.64-$9.28) for a Margherita or Marinara, with specialty pizzas ranging from €8-15 ($9.28-$17.40). For sit-down dining, expect to add €1-2 ($1.16-$2.32) per person for coperto (cover charge), plus drinks (€2-4 or $2.32-$4.64 for beer, €3-5 or $3.48-$5.80 for wine). A complete meal for one person typically costs €10-15 ($11.60-$17.40), making Naples pizza one of the best dining values in Italy. Even the most affordable pizzerias use San Marzano tomatoes, fresh mozzarella, and high-quality olive oil.
What’s the best time of year to visit Naples for pizza?
Pizza in Naples is excellent year-round, as the core ingredients don’t vary significantly by season. Spring (April-May) and fall (September-October) provide ideal weather for exploring the city without summer crowds, making it easier to visit multiple pizzerias without excessive waits. Summer (June-August) brings peak tourist season with longer lines but also the most vibrant street life and outdoor dining. Winter (November-March) sees fewer tourists with shorter waits and cozy wood-fired oven atmosphere, though some pizzerias reduce hours or close for vacation in January or February. September hosts the annual Pizza Village festival on the Lungomare, though the best pizza is still found in traditional pizzerias!
Can I find good gluten-free or vegan pizza options?
Naples has increasingly accommodated dietary restrictions, though you should approach this with realistic expectations. Many pizzerias now offer gluten-free pizza bases, though quality varies and cross-contamination can be a concern for those with celiac disease – we recommend calling ahead to discuss dedicated preparation areas. Vegan options are simpler! The traditional Marinara pizza (tomato, garlic, oregano, oil) is naturally vegan, as are several vegetable-topped pizzas when ordered without cheese. Many modern establishments like 50 Kalò offer vegan mozzarella alternatives. When ordering vegan pizza, specify “senza mozzarella” (without mozzarella) or ask if they have “mozzarella vegana.”
