# Best Pizza in Naples: A Travel Guide
Naples, Italy, is the birthplace of pizza and arguably the best place in the world to enjoy this iconic dish. If you’re visiting Naples and want to experience authentic Neapolitan pizza, here’s a helpful guide to some of the best pizzerias, what to expect, and tips for enjoying your pizza adventure.
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## Why Naples is Famous for Pizza
– **Origin of Pizza Margherita:** Created in 1889 to honor Queen Margherita, featuring tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil — representing the Italian flag.
– **Traditional Neapolitan Pizza:** Known for its soft, chewy crust with a slightly charred edge, simple fresh ingredients, and being cooked at high temperatures (around 900°F/485°C) in a wood-fired oven.
– **UNESCO Recognition:** The art of Neapolitan pizza making is listed as an Intangible Cultural Heritage by UNESCO.
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## Top Pizzerias to Try in Naples
### 1. **L’Antica Pizzeria da Michele**
– **Why Visit:** Often considered the most famous pizzeria in Naples. Known for its simple menu—only Margherita and Marinara pizzas, but perfected to perfection.
– **Location:** Via Cesare Sersale, 1
– **Tips:** Arrive early or be prepared to wait; very popular with tourists and locals alike.
### 2. **Sorbillo**
– **Why Visit:** Family-run and beloved by locals, Sorbillo offers a slightly bigger menu with delicious toppings while maintaining tradition.
– **Location:** Via dei Tribunali, 32
– **Tips:** Great spot to try different varieties while still experiencing classic Neapolitan crust.
### 3. **Di Matteo**
– **Why Visit:** Known not only for pizza but also for street food like fried pizza and arancini (rice balls). Great for a quick, casual bite.
– **Location:** Via dei Tribunali, 94
– **Tips:** Try the fried pizza for a different take on Neapolitan flavors.
### 4. **Pizzeria Brandi**
– **Why Visit:** The legendary pizzeria that claims to have invented the Pizza Margherita.
– **Location:** Salita Sant’Anna di Palazzo, 1-2
– **Tips:** A bit more touristy but still worth a visit for history buffs.
### 5. **Starita**
– **Why Visit:** Family-operated since 1901, it offers both traditional and innovative pizzas.
– **Location:** Via Materdei, 27
– **Tips:** Try the “Montanara,” a fried pizza topped with tomato and mozzarella.
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## What to Expect When Eating Pizza in Naples
– **Serving Style:** Pizza is usually served whole and eaten with a knife and fork, although many locals fold the pizza into a pocket to eat on the go.
– **Menu:** Expect classic pizzas like Margherita, Marinara (tomato, garlic, oregano), and more adventurous toppings depending on the trattoria.
– **Drinks:** Pair your pizza with a local draft beer, regional wine, or the refreshing Italian soft drink “Limonata.”
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## Tips for Your Pizza Experience in Naples
– **Go Early or Late:** Pizzerias get very crowded during lunch and dinner hours. Early visits (around 11:30 am) or late dinners (after 8 pm) can help avoid long waits.
– **Cash is King:** Many places may not accept credit cards, so carry cash.
– **Skip Americanized Variants:** To truly enjoy Neapolitan pizza, stick with traditional toppings and the original preparation.
– **Ask for “Pizza al Taglio”:** If you want a quick snack, try pizza al taglio (pizza by the slice), often sold in bakeries and stands.
– **Try a Pizza Making Class:** For a memorable experience