Savor the true taste of Naples with this guide to three top pizzerias serving authentic Neapolitan pizza in the city where it all began
Pizza might be the ultimate culinary marvel, effortlessly taking on any shape and flavor. This versatility explains its global popularity, with toppings ranging from chicken tandoori to Cajun spices, continually expanding its diverse range. However, Naples focuses on simplicity and tradition, returning to the basics. As the birthplace of modern pizza, Naples attracts purists who come to honor the classic, understated pie.
History of Neapolitan pizza
Neapolitan pizza, a culinary icon originating in Naples, Italy, has a rich history dating back to the 18th century. Initially, it was a simple street food consumed by the working class, featuring affordable ingredients like tomatoes, mozzarella, basil, and olive oil. The combination of these elements laid the foundation for the classic Pizza Margherita, named in honor of Queen Margherita of Savoy in 1889. This pizza’s toppings—red tomatoes, white mozzarella, and green basil—were chosen to represent the colors of the Italian flag. Neapolitan pizza’s distinct characteristics include its soft, chewy crust, a result of high-temperature baking in wood-fired ovens, and its focus on fresh, local ingredients. Over centuries, this humble dish evolved into a beloved global phenomenon, retaining its traditional roots while inspiring countless variations worldwide. The artistry and heritage of Neapolitan pizza were recognized by UNESCO in 2017, granting it cultural heritage status, a testament to its enduring legacy and significance in Italian culture.
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Here are three pizzerias to sample a slice of Napoli
Established in 1870, L’Antica Pizzeria Da Michele adheres strictly to traditional methods. This iconic pizzeria offers only two types of pizza, along with a baked calzone, all cooked in an oak-burning oven. The first, the Marinara, features locally grown San Marzano tomatoes, garlic, oregano, and extra-virgin olive oil. The second, the Margherita, was named in honor of Queen Margherita’s 1889 visit and showcases patriotic toppings that reflect the colors of the Italian flag: red tomatoes, white cow’s milk fiordilatte mozzarella, and green basil. It’s common to see a line of eager patrons waiting outside Da Michele, eager to experience these classic pizzas.
Trianon Da Ciro, located across the street from Da Michele, embraces a more adventurous approach by adding various ingredients to the traditional pizza base. The first-floor dining room, adorned with marble tables, offers a diverse selection of pizzas. Options include the Trianon pie topped with Italian sausage, and the Gran Trianon pizza, which features up to eight different toppings. Local ingredients such as artichokes, olives, and friarielli (a regional cousin of broccoli fried with garlic and pepper flakes) provide a distinct and flavorful experience.
For a heartier take on the traditional Neapolitan pizza, Di Matteo offers another beloved local specialty. The second-floor dining room provides a classic pizzeria ambiance, complete with a view of pizza makers skillfully handling pies with long wooden paddles. However, the real draw for many diners is the pizza fritta. This deep-fried delight is filled with ricotta, provola (a smoked cheese), and a touch of pork fat, creating a melted blend of crispy crust and bubbling cheese. This unique offering keeps Naples’s pizza enthusiasts coming back for more.
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