There’s no city in the world quite like Naples. It’s a place where ancient history, vibrant culture, and mouthwatering food come together in a chaotic, charming symphony. And let’s be real—when you think of Naples, you think of pizza. This is the birthplace of the iconic dish!
But my trip to Naples wasn’t just about checking landmarks off a list. It was about savoring the essence of this incredible city, one pizza slice at a time.
Before we dive into the pizza (and trust me, we will), let’s talk about the backdrop. Naples is an open-air museum, where you can wander through centuries of history.
And don’t even get me started on the views! Perched on the Bay of Naples, the city offers postcard-perfect sights of Mount Vesuvius and the shimmering Mediterranean.
The Holy Grail of Pizza: L’Antica Pizzeria da Michele
Now, let’s get to the main event—pizza. I had heard whispers of a legendary pizzeria in Naples, a place where Julia Roberts herself indulged in a pizza moment for her movie, Eat Pray Love. Naturally, I had to see what the fuss was about.
When I arrived at L’Antica Pizzeria da Michele, the queue spilled out onto the street. But waiting in line was part of the charm, with the air filled with the aroma of freshly baked dough and the buzz of eager diners. After all, this pizzeria has been perfecting its craft since 1870—it’s worth the wait.
Once inside, we ordered the Marita pizza, a genius combination of half Margherita and half Marinara. At just 6 euros, I wasn’t expecting the masterpiece that arrived at our table—a massive, piping hot pizza with perfectly charred crusts, a rich tomato base, and that unmistakable Neapolitan flair.
The first bite? Absolute bliss. The Margherita half had the creamy tang of mozzarella, while the Marinara half was a garlicky, herby explosion of flavor. It was hands down one of the best pizzas I’ve ever had. Simple, fresh, and oh-so-delicious.
Knowing that this was the very spot where Julia Roberts’ character declared, “I’m having a relationship with my pizza,” made the experience even more special. Sitting at a modest table with locals and tourists alike, I felt a sense of community—united by our love for pizza and the joy of being in Naples.
Naples takes its pizza seriously, and it shows. The city even has its own governing body, the Associazione Verace Pizza Napoletana, which ensures that every pizza meets strict standards. The dough, the wood-fired oven, the fresh ingredients—it’s all part of what makes Neapolitan pizza a UNESCO-recognized cultural treasure.
Beyond the pizza, though, it’s the passion of the pizzaiolos (pizza makers) that makes the experience unforgettable. You can taste the love and tradition in every bite.
Naples is more than just a city—it’s a feeling. It’s the grit and beauty of the streets, the echoes of history at every turn, and the unparalleled taste of authentic pizza. My visit to L’Antica Pizzeria da Michele wasn’t just a meal; it was an experience that embodied everything I love about this incredible city.
So, if you’re planning a trip to Naples, make sure to add this iconic pizzeria to your list. Come hungry, leave happy, and take a moment to appreciate the city where pizza truly meets history.
Travels by Cheryl Anne 