Pizza Margherita in Naples

Local Significance

In Naples, pizza is a symbol of cultural identity and pride. UNESCO recognized the art of Neapolitan pizza-making ('pizzaiuolo') as part of humanity's intangible cultural heritage in 2017. Pizza represents Neapolitan ingenuity - creating excellence from simple ingredients.

Eating Customs

• Pizza is eaten directly from the plate with knife and fork, starting from the tip or center.
• Neapolitans often ignore the unwritten Italian rule against cappuccino after breakfast when eating pizza.
• The soft center of Neapolitan pizza means folding it slightly with your fork is common practice.

Margherita with Buffalo Mozzarella (Extra)

The premium version in Naples uses D.O.P. buffalo mozzarella from Campania region instead of fior di latte. It costs €1-2 more but offers a richer flavor.

Antica Margherita (Old-Style)

Some historic pizzerias make an even more minimalist version, with less cheese scattered in patches rather than covering the entire pizza.

Margherita Fritta (Fried Pizza Margherita)

A variation where the pizza dough is fried before being topped with tomato, cheese and basil - a street food specialty of Naples.

Pizza a Portafoglio

A smaller Margherita folded twice (like a wallet or handkerchief) for street consumption, often sold from small windows or street carts.

Eating Pizza Like a Neapolitan

Learn the authentic Neapolitan way to enjoy your Pizza Margherita, from how to handle the soft center to what to drink, ensuring a truly local culinary experience.

• Use Knife and Fork (Mostly): Due to the soft, slightly 'soupy' center, Neapolitans typically start eating their pizza with a knife and fork.
• Fold the Tip ('a Libretto'): As you work towards the crust, you might fold the pointed end of the slice like a small book ('a libretto') to eat it by hand.
• Drink Beer or Water: Local Neapolitans usually pair pizza with beer (like Peroni or Nastro Azzurro) or sparkling water, rather than wine.
• Eat Efficiently: Especially in popular, busy pizzerias like Da Michele or Sorbillo, it's customary to eat relatively quickly and not linger excessively after finishing.
• Appreciate Simplicity: Focus on the quality of the core ingredients (dough, tomatoes, mozzarella, basil, oil) rather than expecting complex flavors.

Finding Top Pizzerias in Naples Beyond the 'Big Names'

Discover how to find exceptional pizzerias in Naples that are beloved by locals, offering an authentic experience away from the most crowded tourist spots and famous names.

• Explore the Quartieri Spagnoli: While busy, this neighborhood has many excellent, authentic pizzerias tucked away on side streets.
• Visit Vomero District: Take the funicular up to Vomero for great pizzerias often frequented more by locals than tourists.
• Look for 'Antica Pizzeria': Signs indicating 'Antica Pizzeria' often signal long-standing establishments with traditional methods.
• Check Local Blogs/Forums: Search for recent recommendations on Italian food blogs or forums focusing on Naples ('migliore pizzeria Napoli quartiere [name]').
• Don't Judge by Decor: Some of Naples' best pizzerias are very basic inside. Focus on the oven, the crowds, and the pizza itself.