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Naples, the vibrant heart of southern Italy, is a paradise for food lovers, especially those with a penchant for street cuisine. Naples is famous for its local street food, and you can find a typical place to enjoy authentic Italian cuisine on every corner of the city. From iconic pizzas to lesser-known local delicacies, the city’s local street food scene offers a tantalizing journey through Neapolitan culinary traditions. Let’s explore the must-try street foods, find out what the current trends are and where to find them in this gastronomic capital.
No discussion of Neapolitan authentic street food is complete without mentioning the famous “wallet pizza”. This compact version of the classic Margherita is folded into fourths, making it perfect for eating on the go. For an authentic experience, head to Di Matteo on Via dei Tribunali, where you can grab this iconic treat for just €3.
The cuoppo is a cone-shaped paper filled with an assortment of fried delights. Whether you prefer seafood or vegetarian options, Il Cuoppo Friggitori Napoletani in Via San Biagio Dei Librai offers some of the best in the city.
Fried pizza is one of the most popular street foods in Naples, made by stretching and frying pizza dough. Toppings may include tomato sauce, fresh buffalo mozzarella, mortadella and basil. Fried pizzas are widely available throughout Naples and are often served as an antipasti before a meal. This delicious street food is a must-try when visiting Naples.
Panzerotti is a classic Naples favorite, made with small pieces of yeast dough stuffed with mozzarella cheese and fresh tomatoes. Fillings may vary depending on the location, but traditional options include mozzarella cheese, fried greens, and cured meats.
This deep-fried pasta cake is a beloved Neapolitan street food. For a gourmet twist on this classic, visit Pizzeria Salvo in San Giorgio a Cremano, where they use Gragnano pasta and smoked buffalo mozzarella. It’s a rich but delicious street food option that’s perfect for a quick snack.
Panino Caprese is made with fresh tomato slices, mozzarella cheese, and basil. It’s a delicious and refreshing sandwich option that’s perfect for a quick snack. This authentic Italian dish showcases the city’s ability to transform simple ingredients into extraordinary culinary experiences.
A recent trend in Naples is the elevation of traditional street foods to gourmet status. Restaurants like Antica Pizzeria Port’Alba are now offering upscale versions of classic street dishes, using high-quality, locally-sourced ingredients.
Pizzeria da Michele
With the growing demand for plant-based foods, many street vendors are now offering vegan and vegetarian versions of traditional dishes. Check out Vitto Pitagorico near the Naples National Archaeological Museum for innovative plant-based street food.
Some innovative chefs are blending Neapolitan street food traditions with international cuisines. Visit Puok Burger Store for their unique “pizza burgers,” a fusion of Neapolitan and American street food.
For the adventurous eater, this traditional poor man’s food made from pork offal is a must-try. Head to Antica Tripperia dal 1945 O Russ for an authentic experience.
These small fried dough balls, often filled with anchovies or vegetables, are a popular snack. You can find excellent zeppulelle at La Masardona in Via Giulio Cesare Capaccio.
While not strictly street food, this sweet pastry is often enjoyed on the go. The debate rages on between riccia and frolla varieties, so try both at Attanasio in Vico Ferrovia to decide for yourself.
The street food scene in Naples is constantly evolving, with new markets and festivals popping up regularly. The Mercato di Porta Nolana is a vibrant street market where you can sample a variety of local street foods. For a more curated experience, time your visit with the annual Napoli Pizza Village, a massive outdoor festival celebrating the city’s most famous street food.
Naples’ street food scene is a testament to the city’s rich culinary heritage and innovative spirit. From classic dishes that have stood the test of time to new creations pushing the boundaries of tradition, there’s something for every palate on the streets of Naples. So grab a cuoppo, fold your pizza, and immerse yourself in the delicious chaos of Neapolitan street food culture.
