Neopolitan-style pizza is Naples culinary gem. Grab a seat at L'Antica Pizzeria da Michele, which has been serving up pizza since 1870, and order a slice of simple, classic margherita, topped with fresh basil, tomato sauce and local mozzarella di fiore. Cruise to Naples and head to Friggitoria Vomero for the town's best arancini — gooey, fried spheres of rice and cheese — or panzarotti, a mini-calzone stuffed with mozzarella, tomato and other ingredients like spinach or ham.

Naples (Napoli) is a paradise for food lovers, offering some of the most authentic and flavorful dishes in Italian cuisine. As the birthplace of pizza, home to incredible seafood, and rich in traditional Neapolitan flavors, the city’s gastronomy is an unforgettable experience.

1. Pizza Napoletana: The Icon of Naples No visit to Naples is complete without trying pizza Napoletana, the city's most famous culinary export. The classic Margherita, made with San Marzano tomatoes, mozzarella di bufala, fresh basil, and a crispy-yet-soft wood-fired crust, is a must-try. Another favorite is Pizza Marinara, a simpler yet equally delicious version topped with tomatoes, garlic, oregano, and olive oil.

2. Street Food Delights Neapolitan street food is an adventure in itself. Try Cuoppo Napoletano, a paper cone filled with a mix of fried seafood or vegetables, perfect for eating on the go. Frittatine di pasta (deep-fried pasta balls filled with béchamel, ham, and cheese) and arancini (stuffed rice balls) are also local favorites.

3. Fresh Seafood and Pasta Specialties Being a coastal city, Naples offers an abundance of fresh seafood. Spaghetti alle Vongole (spaghetti with clams) is a simple yet flavorful dish found in many trattorias. Impepata di Cozze (peppered mussels) and frittura di paranza (fried mixed seafood) are also popular choices, best enjoyed with a glass of local white wine.

4. Traditional Neapolitan Dishes For a hearty meal, try Parmigiana di Melanzane (eggplant parmesan) or Ragù Napoletano, a slow-cooked tomato and meat sauce traditionally served with pasta on Sundays. Another local specialty is Salsiccia e Friarielli, a flavorful combination of Neapolitan sausage and sautéed bitter greens.

5. Sweet Treats: Neapolitan Desserts Naples is known for its incredible pastries and sweets. Sfogliatella, a crispy, shell-shaped pastry filled with ricotta and citrus, is a local favorite. Babà al Rum, a spongy, rum-soaked cake, is another must-try. Pair these with an espresso for the full Neapolitan experience.

Naples' cuisine is a celebration of simple, high-quality ingredients and bold flavors, offering an unforgettable journey through the heart of Italian culinary tradition. Whether you're enjoying a slice of authentic pizza or indulging in a sweet sfogliatella, every bite tells a story of the city's rich history and passion for food.