A Pizza Chef’s Guide To Naples
One of the world’s best pizza joints is in Chiswick. Sounds unlikely – until we tell you the man behind it is born-and-raised Neapolitan. Rather than asking Michele Pascarella for his W4 tips, we took the Napoli on the Road boss back to his roots. From seafood restaurants to surreal hotels, these are places he loves in the home of pizza…
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STAY
La Casa Sull’Acqua
La Casa sull’Acqua is a truly surreal place – it feels like being on a boat, floating right on the water. When you wake up, the first thing you see is Vesuvius. With floor-to-ceiling windows and a location above sea level, waking up here feels like being immersed in the sea itself. It’s a magical spot, not just during the day but also at night. The view of the stars is breathtaking, and you can sit on the balcony, simply watching them shine over the water. A dreamlike experience in every sense.
Follow @LaCasaSullAcquaPosillipo1
Grand Hotel Parker’s
Grand Hotel Parker’s is one of those places that just feels special. As Naples’s oldest luxury hotel, dating back to 1870, it has incredible views of Vesuvius. Inside, George Restaurant has two Michelin stars, with food as spectacular as the view. And if you love a good terrace, this one is perfect for a slow breakfast or a sunset drink.
Visit GrandHotelParkes.it
Grand Hotel Vesuvio
Grand Hotel Vesuvio has great views of the Bay of Naples and Mount Vesuvius, with rooms overlooking Castel dell’Ovo. A historic hotel with elegant rooms, I love its restaurant and rooftop terrace – great for people watching and a top choice if you’re after somewhere really smart.
Visit Vesuvio.it
Artemisia Domus, Giardino
This stunning 16th-century historic residence, surrounded by an enchanting garden, is a magnificent palace. Here, you can enjoy massages, a sauna, and various sensory experiences designed for ultimate relaxation. The original architecture has been carefully preserved and restored, including 16th-century frescoes protected by the Fine Arts authorities for their historical and artistic significance. It’s in a great location too, just a short walk from the Castel dell’Ovo.
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EAT & DRINK
Mimì alla Ferrovia
Mimì alla Ferrovia has been a staple since 1943, a true pillar of the city's dining scene, and a reference point for anyone seeking authentic Neapolitan cuisine. It’s one of those places where you immediately feel at home, thanks to the incredible food, the rich traditions in every dish, and a touch of innovation brought by Sasà Giuliano, the chef and owner, who incorporates influences from his time in the East. The service is warm and welcoming – everyone is incredibly friendly and makes you feel like part of the family. Be sure to order the ziti lardiati pasta.
Visit MimiAllaFerrovia.It
Salumeria Malinconico
Salumeria Malinconico is a traditional neighbourhood deli and mini market opened by local Alessio Malinconico’s parents. Alessio pivoted careers and returned to his hometown to take over the family business. He specialises in traditional sandwiches, elevating their simplicity to a local benchmark – must-tries include the ricotta and cicoli, and the prosciutto crudo with figs. Alongside sandwiches, you’ll find dishes like parmigiana, stuffed peppers, and his mother’s focaccia di Amelia. You can take your food to go or enjoy it by the window, with views of Mount Vesuvius.
Visit @Salumeria_Malinconico
Palazzo Petrucci
Palazzo Petrucci is an elegant fine dining Italian restaurant. Set in a remarkable and historical building, the restaurant has incredible views of Mount Vesuvius. The colours of the sea and sky create a magical setting – go for lunch or for a romantic sunset dinner.
Visit @Palazzo_Petrucci
SeaFront Napoli
Opposite the Maschio Angioino, this restaurant by Giuseppe Di Martino – a pasta producer from Gragnano – is a dream for pasta lovers. Watch chefs at work from a sushi-style counter and enjoy a menu almost entirely dedicated to pasta, with traditional recipes, generous portions, and an excellent tasting menu.
Visit @SeaFront_Napoli
Punto Nave
In Pozzuoli, near Naples, this is a seafood heaven created by the Testa brothers, who bring passion and dedication to every dish. It’s the kind of place where you come for the warm, welcoming atmosphere, stay for the incredible raw seafood and fish, and leave already planning your next visit. It has a stunning seaside view, and is a true celebration of the sea and its flavours.
Visit @PuntoNave_Official
Caffè Sansone
Café Sansone Roastery is a must visit for coffee lovers. Known for its rich, high-quality beans, it offers a true taste of Naples. Whether you’re enjoying a perfect espresso or taking home freshly roasted coffee, it’s the perfect experience for those passionate about coffee culture.
Visit @CaffeSansone
Sfogliatelle Attanasio
Sfogliatelle Attanasio is a true Neapolitan institution, famous for its freshly baked sfogliatelle (a shell-shaped pastry with a sweet, creamy filling). Served warm, the crispy layers or soft pastry shells are incredibly rich and flavourful.
Follow @SfogliatelleAttanasio
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L’Antiquario
Run by Dario and Alex, L'Antiquario is a top-notch bar known for its classic style and excellent cocktails. It’s a trailblazer for high-quality drinks in the city, and is the only Naples bar to be featured in the World’s Best 50 Bars list.
Visit @L’Antiquario_Napoli
Anthill Cocktail Bar
On the top floor of Gallerie d'Italia, Anthill is a unique project created by Giuseppe Iannotti. The venue is known for its world-class cocktails, with Anna Garuti, the talented bartender, adding her expertise to make every drink a masterpiece.
Visit @AnthillCocktailBar
La Fesseria
La Fesseria means ‘nonsense’ in Italian, but it defies its name. It’s a place to take seriously. Tucked behind the university on Via Paladino 17, it’s a tiny bar worth waiting for space in. Its creative cocktails pay tribute to 90s icons, from Tamagotchi and telenovelas to Friends, blending nostalgia with top-tier mixology.
Visit @La_Fesseria
VISIT
Donnaregina Contemporary Art Museum Madre Museum
The Museo Madre is a contemporary art museum housed in a historic building. It showcases a dynamic collection of modern works, featuring both Italian and international artists. It’s a great way to spend a couple of culture-filled hours.
Visit MadreNapoli.it
Museo e Real Bosco di Capodimonte
This is a treasure-trove of art and nature. In a former royal palace, it houses masterpieces by Caravaggio and Raphael. It’s surrounded by a huge park where you can relax and explore its green spaces.
Napoli Sotterranea
Napoli Sotterranea is a fascinating underground world beneath the city, revealing over 2,400 years of history. Tunnels, aqueducts and ancient ruins tell the story of Naples from the Greeks to World War II. This is a hidden side of the city that feels like stepping into another time.
Visit NapoliSotterranea.org
Metropolitana di Toledo
Toledo metro station is one of the most beautiful in the world. While Naples is full of art stations, this one stands out for its stunning design, featuring soft curves and circles that mimic the colours and movement of the sea. It’s a true work of art.
Rotonda di Via Nazario Sauro
This is the place to visit on your last day, to reflect on everything the city has given you. You can sit by the sea, facing Vesuvius, and if it’s sunset – even better. Your heart and soul will feel at peace. It’s the perfect spot to end your trip, surrounded by people relaxing, chatting and laughing.
Follow @IamMichelePascarella on Instagram & visit NapoliOnTheRoad.co.uk
Napoli on the Road by Michele Pascarella (£22, Ryland Peters & Small) is available to buy now. Visit Amazon.co.uk
All products on this page have been selected by our editorial team, however we may make commission on some products.
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