Chapter 1
Naples is widely regarded as the birthplace of pizza. Legend has it that the first pizza was created here in 1889 when a local chef named Raffaele Esposito made a pizza in the colors of the Italian flag - red (tomato), white (mozzarella) and green (basil) - and presented it to Queen Margherita. The Queen was so delighted that this type of pizza has been called Pizza Margherita ever since.
Neapolitan-style pizza features a thin and soft crust that is charred on top from spending just seconds in an extremely hot wood-fired oven. The crust slightly puffs up to create that beloved charred chewy bite, yet maintains a delicate tender interior. Neapolitan red sauce is applied sparingly while fresh mozzarella adds the right amount of gooey texture without making the pizza soggy and overpowering the other ingredients. This perfect combination of flavors and textures has made Neapolitan pizza world famous.
When it comes to the best pizza Naples has to offer, there is no shortage of incredible pizzerias to choose from. However, a few local favorites consistently rise above the rest thanks to generations of pizza mastery passed down from the city's most renowned pizza makers. These historic and beloved Neapolitan pizzerias serve pizza that transports you directly to Naples with a single bite, exemplifying both tradition and innovation in every perfect slice.
Pizzeria da Michele
With nearly 150 years of pizza-making under its belt, Pizzeria da Michele is an undisputed king when it comes to Naples' best pizza. Since 1870, da Michele has been serving pizza from its iconic location on Via Cesare Sersale, attracting gigantic lines that wrap around the block every night. The crowds come for two reasons and two reasons only - pizza Margherita and pizza Marinara. These are the only two pies available at da Michele yet they have earned the pizzeria cult status around the globe.
So what makes da Michele's trademark Margherita and Marinara pizzas so exceptional? It starts with the dough which is never made more than six hours in advance, allowing it to achieve that perfect Neapolitan texture and flavor. The pizzaiolos (pizza makers) stretch and spin the dough by hand using local techniques passed down through generations. The sauce is made fresh daily from San Marzano tomatoes and finished with a drizzle of olive oil, a pinch of salt and a sprinkle of basil.
The Margherita is then topped with melted fior di latte mozzarella. Despite its simplicity, one bite transports you to Naples itself with flavors that are superior in every way. The crust is slightly blackened yet retains a puffy and pillow-soft chew. Bright tomato sauce dances beautifully with creamy melting cheese and herbaceous basil. The Marinara is similar but allows the sweet and tangy tomatoes to truly shine as the star of the show.
A trip to Naples would simply not be complete without enjoying pizza at its most historic and authentic at Pizzeria da Michele. Expect long lines filled with both locals and tourists excited to taste a slice of history. Just make sure not to ask for any toppings or the pizzaiolos may refuse to serve you!
Pizzeria Starita
Established in 1901, Pizzeria Starita shares nearly the same age and as much prestige as da Michele in Naples' pizza landscape. Also family-owned through four generations, Starita's exceptional Margherita pizza has earned numerous accolades establishing it as a beloved icon.
Don't let the cafe-style setting fool you - the pizza here is as traditional as it gets and considered to be some of the best in Naples. In fact, Starita played a pivotal role in forming the official rules of Verace Pizza Napoletana that legally define what constitutes true Neapolitan pizza.
