Curious about the best foods to try in Naples, Italy? This vibrant city is known for its delicious cuisine, which draws on both traditional Italian recipes and local ingredients. From pizza and pasta to fresh seafood and mouth-watering desserts, there’s something for everyone to enjoy in Naples. Here are 12 of the most popular dishes to sample on your next trip to this foodie paradise.
1. Pizza Margherita
When it comes to pizza, there’s no place quite like Naples, Italy. The city is home to the original Pizza Margherita, and its pizzerias are world-renowned for their delicious pies.
Made with a simple combination of tomato sauce, mozzarella cheese, and fresh basil leaves, Pizza Margherita is a quintessential example of Neapolitan cuisine.
And while there are many imitations out there, nothing compares to the real thing. If you’re ever in Naples, be sure to stop by one of its pizzerias and try a slice of the city’s most iconic dish. You won’t be disappointed.
2. Spaghetti alla Marinara
There’s nothing quite like a plate of spaghetti alla marinara when you’re in Naples, Italy. The dish is simple but full of flavor, and it’s a perfect representation of the city’s cuisine.
The pasta is cooked al dente and tossed with an addictive, slightly spicy tomato sauce. It’s then topped with fresh parsley and shaved Parmesan cheese. And of course, it wouldn’t be complete without a generous drizzle of olive oil.
This classic dish is best enjoyed at one of Naples’ many trattorias, where you can enjoy the city’s vibrant atmosphere and soak up the Mediterranean sun. Buon appetito!
3. Gnocchi alla Sorrentina
There’s nothing quite like a bowl of piping hot gnocchi, and in Naples, you’ll find some of the best. Gnocchi alla Sorrentina is a local specialty made with potato gnocchi and topped with a simple tomato sauce and melted mozzarella cheese.
It’s a humble dish, but the combination of flavors is absolutely heavenly. The gnocchi is always cooked to perfection, and the tomato sauce is bursting with flavor.
If you’re looking for a truly authentic Italian dining experience, be sure to try Gnocchi alla Sorrentina in Naples.
4. Caprese Salad
A trip to Naples, Italy is not complete without experiencing the delight of a Caprese salad. This simple dish, made with fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil, is a true taste of summer.
The key to a perfect Caprese salad is using the freshest ingredients. The mozzarella should be creamy and soft, the tomatoes ripe and juicy, and the basil leaves fragrant and glossy.
A drizzle of olive oil and a sprinkle of salt is all that is needed to bring out the flavor of the ingredients. When made correctly, a Caprese salad is a thing of beauty – a colorful tribute to the bounty of the summer harvest.
5. Eggplant Parmigiana
Eggplant Parmigiana is a dish that originates from Naples, Italy. It is made with layered slices of eggplant that are coated in breadcrumbs and fried, then topped with tomato sauce and mozzarella cheese.
This dish is usually served as a main course, but can also be enjoyed as an appetizer or side dish. Eggplant Parmigiana is a popular dish in Italian restaurants and is often served with a side of pasta.
It is also a popular dish to make at home, as it is relatively easy to prepare and can be made ahead of time. Whether you enjoy it in a restaurant or make it at home, Eggplant Parmigiana is a delicious way to enjoy the flavors of Naples, Italy.
6. Sfogliatelle
Sfogliatelle is a type of Italian pastry that originates from Naples. They are made with light, flaky dough and are filled with sweet ricotta cream.
Sfogliatelle are often shaped like seashells or leaves, and they are a popular treat to enjoy with coffee or gelato. When translated, the word Sfogliatelle means “many layers” – and indeed, each individual pastry is made up of dozens of delicate layers of dough.
For this reason, Sfogliatelle is sometimes known as “lobster tails” due to their similarity in appearance. If you’re ever in Naples, be sure to try a Sfogliatella – it’s an experience you won’t forget!
7. Zeppole
The Zeppole is a fried doughnut-like food that is popular in Naples, Italy. It is typically made with a yeasted dough and fried in olive oil.
The Zeppole can be either sweet or savory, and it is often served as street food. The most popular way to eat Zeppole is with a dusting of powdered sugar, but they can also be served with a variety of other toppings, such as honey, chocolate sauce, or fruit.
Regardless of how they are eaten, Zeppole are always delicious and sure to satisfy any craving.
8. Cassata
Cassata is a traditional Sicilian dessert that is often served at weddings and other special occasions. The dish consists of a round sponge cake that is soaked in sweetened condensed milk, then layered with ricotta cheese and candied fruit.
The cake is then covered with a thin layer of marzipan and decorated with edible flowers. Cassata is a popular tourist attraction in Naples, Italy, where it originated. Visitors to the city can often find cassata on the menus of local restaurants.
In addition to being a delicious treat, cassata is also a work of art, and its colorful decoration is sure to delight anyone who sees it.
9. Cannoli
There’s nothing quite like a freshly made cannolo, and in Naples, you’ll find some of the best. Cannoli are traditional Italian pastries that consist of a light, flaky pastry shell filled with sweet ricotta cream.
The best cannoli are made with fresh ricotta that has been sweetened with sugar and flavored with a touch of citrus. The cream is then piped into the pastry shell and left to set.
Once set, the cannoli are rolled in a dusting of confectioners’ sugar before being served. When done right, they’re simply irresistible.
10. Tiramisu
Tiramisu is a popular dessert from Italy that consists of layers of coffee-soaked sponge cake, mascarpone cheese, and cocoa powder. The dish is said to have originated in the city of Naples, and it continues to be a favorite among locals and visitors alike.
There are many different ways to make tiramisu, but the classic recipe calls for espresso-soaked ladyfinger biscuits, which are then layered with a mixture of marsala wine, eggs, sugar, and mascarpone cheese.
The entire dish is then dusted with cocoa powder and refrigerated for several hours before serving. Tiramisu can be enjoyed as is, or it can be served with a cup of coffee or espresso.
11. Gelato
If you’re looking for the best gelato in Italy, there’s no need to look any further than Naples. The city is home to some of the most renowned gelaterias in the country, and each one has its own unique take on the classic frozen treat.
Whether you’re looking for a traditional flavor like chocolate or strawberry, or something more innovative like matcha or earl grey, you’ll be able to find it in Naples. And with so many gelaterias to choose from, you’ll never get bored of trying new flavors.
So what are you waiting for? Grab a scoop (or two) of gelato and enjoy one of the tastiest treats that Italy has to offer.
12. Espresso
There’s something special about sipping a rich, flavorful espresso in Naples, Italy. The city is world-renowned for its coffee, and for good reason.
Coffeehouses line the streets, and each one has its own unique blend. Whether you’re enjoying a cappuccino at Caffè Gambrinus or a macchiato at Caffè e Grotta di Capri, you’re sure to find the perfect cup of coffee to suit your taste.
In Conclusion
So there you have it – 12 foods to try in Naples, Italy. From traditional dishes like pizza and pasta to more unique fare like cassata and tiramisu, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. So whether you’re a local looking for a new favorite spot or a visitor searching for the best food the city has to offer, be sure to check out these 12 options. Buon appetito!
