Naples is known for its beautiful coastal views, vibrant streets, and formidable Mt Vesuvius, which is the cause of the preservation of Pompeii archaeological sites. More importantly, it is also the birthplace of Neapolitan pizza, which is such a respected craft that it has achieved Unesco Heritage Status.
Other than home to the top pizzerias in the world, the city is where many flock for summer to bask in the heat while indulging in creamy gelato, fresh pasta, and local sweets. We followed Malaysian pizzeria Pizza Duo for their annual research trip around Naples, and here are some of our top tips for enjoying the city’s finest gastronomic offerings.
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Visit some of the top pizzerias in town
Naples is home to the world’s best pizzerias, and a trip to the city is incomplete without visiting at least one (but we’d recommend more!). Tied for the number one spot on the 50 Top Pizza World list are I Masanielli di Francesco Martucci and Diego Vitagliano Pizzeria.
Diego Vitagliano Pizzeria has two locations; the one in Pozzuoli overlooks an impressive seafront view. In the town of Caserta, just outside the historic centre of Naples, is I Masanielli di Francesco Martucci, best known for its pizza cooked at three temperatures—steamed, baked, and fried—resulting in a golden brown crust.
50 Kalo is located slightly closer to town and is ranked number seven on the 50 Top Pizza World list. Here, don’t miss the diavola pizza, as well as the calzone.
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Tuck into a sandwich in the historic centre of Naples
A sandwich at Alimentari Coscia (Photo: Katelyn Tan)
Walk along the streets of Via dei Tribunali, and you’ll be greeted by stalls selling fried street food such as pizza fritta. For a more substantial snack, visit Alimentari Coscia, a deli boasting wines, cold cuts, and fresh sandwiches. Our pick from the selection was bursting with sun-dried tomatoes, buffalo mozzarella, pesto, and delicate slices of mortadella.
Try local delicacy sfogliatelle
The classic Italian pastry of sfogliatelle has a light, crisp crust and a sweet filling. While sfogliatelle riccia is the more common version with a flaky exterior shaped like a lobster tail, its counterpart, sfogliatelle frolla, has a crumbly, biscuit-like exterior.
While sfogliatelle can be found at many of the cafés dotting the city, visit Pasticceria Poppella for an exceptional take. While you’re at it, don’t miss trying the pastry shop’s famed snowflake dessert, a pillowy bread with a dusting of powdered sugar.
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Cool down on a hot summer day with gelato
There are few things better in the sweltering heat than a scoop of creamy gelato. Mennella Il Gelato boasts an excellent selection—our favourites were the hazelnut, pistachio, and melon sorbet. The aforementioned Pasticceria Poppella also serves great gelato.
Enjoy a fresh array of seafood
Squid pasta at Sottocoperta Taverna di Mare (Photo: Katelyn Tan)
With its proximity to the coast, Naples is also home to a wide range of seafood restaurants, with daily-changing menus depending on the catch of the day. One such restaurant is Sottocoperta Taverna di Mare, just a short walk from the historic centre.
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