A Slice of Naples: A Walking Pizza Tour of Italy’s Pizza Capital
Buongiorno, pizza lovers! Welcome to Naples, the birthplace of pizza and the city that takes its pies so seriously that it’s practically a religion.
In the narrow, bustling streets of this vibrant Italian city, you’ll find the world’s finest pizzas, each with its unique character, charm, and of course, a delightful explosion of flavors.
There’s the iconic Pizza Margherita, resplendent in the colors of the Italian flag with its fresh basil, mozzarella, and tomatoes. And who can forget the punchy, garlic-laden Pizza Marinara? Today, we’re taking you on a gastronomic journey through Napoli, exploring the best pizzerias within walking distance of the Toledo Metro Station. So, loosen your belt and put on your most comfortable walking shoes — it’s time to eat pizza!
Let’s go
Our first stop is the historic Pizzeria Starita. Open since 1901, Starita became world-famous when Sofia Loren played a pizza maker in the film “L’oro di Napoli”. Be sure to try their traditional Neapolitan pizza and the unique “Montanara Starita”, a mouthwatering deep-fried pizza.
Just a 15-minute walk from Starita, we find ourselves at Pizzeria Da Michele. This pizzeria is one of the oldest and most revered in Naples, catapulted to international fame after a starring role in “Eat Pray Love”. Da Michele serves only two kinds of pizza: Margherita and Marinara, a testament to their belief in simplicity and tradition.
Next up is Pizzeria Trianon da Ciro, a mere 5-minute stroll from Da Michele. One of Naples’s oldest pizzerias, Trianon is known for its wide variety of pizzas, cooked to perfection in their large, wood-fired oven.
A 10-minute walk from Trianon brings us to Sorbillo, another big name in the Naples pizza scene. Gino Sorbillo, the pizzaiolo, has gained international fame for his traditional Neapolitan pizza. It’s not just pizza; it’s a love story crafted with flour, water, and yeast.
Just steps away from Sorbillo, you’ll find Di Matteo. A local favorite, Di Matteo offers an array of delicious street food alongside their pizzas. Don’t miss their “pizza fritta” (fried pizza) or “frittatina di pasta” (fried pasta).
Our final destination is Pizzeria La Notizia, a bit farther but absolutely worth the trip. Enzo Coccia, the owner, is a maestro of pizza, known for his innovative approach to traditional pizza-making. He offers a delightful twist on traditional pizza, using unique and high-quality ingredients.
Embarking on this pizza pilgrimage through Naples, you’ll not only taste he most delicious pizzas in the world, but also experience the city’s rich history and vibrant culture. Each pizzeria has a unique story, and each slice you savor is a testament to centuries-old traditions and the unyielding passion of the pizzaiolos who craft these masterpieces.
So, are you ready to embark on this Neapolitan pizza adventure? Remember, in Naples, pizza isn’t just a dish; it’s a way of life. Whether you’re a fan of the classic Margherita, the robust Marinara, or you’re adventurous enough to try a deep-fried pizza, this city has something for every pizza aficionado.
Come with an empty stomach and a heart full of anticipation, as the bustling streets of Naples are waiting to treat you to a pizza experience like no other. Buon appetito!