First things first, Naples is the Mecca for pizza aficionados the world over, and for good reason. One could throw a rock and hit three fantastic pizzerias in any corner of the city, so making this list was, let’s say… not the easiest. With that said, though, the wealth of excellent spots in this historic city shouldn’t be ignored. Let's talk about the best pizza in Naples, shall we?
My best advice is to explore if you have the option to see Naples; it’s chock-full of history and incredible food, and a single list of five joints won’t do the city justice. So — while I highly recommend the joints below, I also can’t in good conscience say they’re the only games in town.
The Best Pizza in Naples, Italy: Top 3
Gino Sorbillo
Those who know pizza knew that this would be on the list. As a Michelin-starred restaurant, it is both of the highest quality and incredibly busy. Named after Chef Gino Sorbillo (perhaps obviously), this restaurant takes on the mantle of one of the oldest pizzaiolo families in Naples — a feat of its own.
Chef Gino, the 19th of 21 children, has taken it upon himself to build a name as one of the best chefs in the city. Whether this is due to the quality of his ingredients, the history of his family’s techniques, or his artistic flair, I can’t say — but I can say that one doesn’t just waltz into the scene and grab a Michelin star. Over the years, Gino and his brother Toto have opened seven total locations, ranging from Italy to the States and Japan.
Each location is stellar, but the original spot in Naples is impossible to beat. The seating arrangements are classic European style, offering both communal seating and individual tables. This means that, while you could wait it out and try to grab a table for yourself and your loved ones, you can also sit and enjoy the company of new people. While not for everyone, I’ve found that the second option is more fun — after all, when in Rome (er, Naples), right?
Palazzo Petrucci Pizzeria
Another name that many might expect, Palazzo Petrucci Pizzeria is yet another Michelin-starred pizzeria in the heart of Naples. This gastronomical delight is nestled in right in the middle of a UNESCO Heritage site, making it a sight unlike many others — oh, and the food is incredible. Ultimately, this means that whether you’re there for a bite or a sight, you’ll be in great hands.
Palazzo Petrucci Pizzeria focuses (perhaps unsurprisingly) on traditional Neapolitan pizza with a modernist flair. This means that, while you can expect classics like the Margherita, it’s often worth the leap of faith to simply trust your server and chef (specifically, go for the “Lino fai tu” menu). While this does mean that you sacrifice choice in your meal, it also means you get to eat something made for you by one of the best chefs in the world.
As if that weren’t enough, Palazzo Petrucci is more than a pizzeria; they’re a full-service restaurant with a cocktail lounge. This means that guests can sample seasonal, local dishes crafted by passionate chefs while enjoying the gorgeous scenery with a cheeky little cocktail or glass of wine. At the end of the day, I couldn’t ask for more.
L'antica Pizzeria da Michele
As the last of our tour of the greats, L'antica Pizzeria da Michele is another name from the Michelin Guide. Unlike the others before them, L'antica Pizzeria da Michele also happens to have several U.S. locations (in case you don’t want to travel quite so far). Also unlike their competition, this spot has been around since 1870, making it one of the oldest pizzerias in the area.
This fact means a few things: first and foremost, they have a nearly incomparable technique that creates some of the best pizza you’ll ever taste. Beyond that, though, they’re an extremely busy joint with a shockingly fast service. Their secret? L'antica Pizzeria da Michele only has two menu items: the Margherita and the Marinara (Tomato, oregano, garlic). To some, the simplicity may be a bit unusual — but those who’ve been know that simplicity is the key to their success.
Truthfully, there’s not much more to say — L'antica Pizzeria da Michele is a masterpiece of traditional pizza. They’re open for the majority of the day and sling pies like few others, leading to a uniquely charming experience that’ll live in your head for the remainder of your days should you have the joy of visiting.
The Best Pizza in Naples, Italy: Top 2 Honorable Mentions
Now, it’s impossible to say that these joints aren’t unique in their own way. You know it, I know it, the simple truth is that Naples is the heart of pizza for a reason. You already know the game — it's the best pizza in Naples. So, take a peek below — after all, if you’re in the city, you might as well grab as many pies as possible.
50 Kalò
Owned by third-generation Chef Ciro Salvo, 50 Kalò is unlike many pizzerias around the world. They’ve been awarded numerous titles throughout the years, ranging from The New York Times’ top pizzerias in Italy to multiple “Master of Dough” titles. They use incredibly high-hydration dough, leading to a different texture and final result than many may be used to, but it’s a truly transformative experience that one shouldn’t miss when in Naples.
Pizzeria Starita
Pizzeria Starita is another of the oldest pizzerias in Naples. Founded in 1901, they’ve earned over a century of love from locals and tourists alike, and for good reason. All-Italian ingredients, hand-rolled dough, and natural leavening make their pies a work of art — in short, if it’s good enough for the pope, it should be good enough for just about anyone.