Pizza, one of the world’s most beloved dishes, finds its origins in Italy, where it has been perfected and celebrated for centuries. This iconic dish, known for its simple yet flavourful ingredients, has become a symbol of Italian culinary artistry and a staple in diets around the globe.
Italy is recognized as the birthplace of pizza, with each region offering its unique spin on this classic. From the thin, crispy crusts of Rome to the soft bases of Naples, Italian pizza is as diverse as the country itself.
In Italy, pizza is not just a meal; it’s a cultural experience deeply rooted in tradition. The art of pizza making has been passed down through generations, preserving the authenticity and quality that makes Italian pizza unparalleled.
Pizzerias in Italy are often family-run establishments where recipes remain closely guarded secrets, and every pie is crafted with passion and precision.
As you explore Italy, indulging in authentic pizza should be at the top of your list. To guide you on this delicious journey, we have curated a list of the top 5 pizzerias across the country.
Each pizzeria has its own story, specialty pizzas, and unique atmosphere, ensuring an unforgettable dining experience. Join us as we uncover the best places to savor the true taste of Italy’s culinary heritage.
Some of the most important pizzerias are located in the city of Naples, but don’t worry: nowadays you can reach it quite quickly by train, thanks to high speed. For example, you can travel from Florence to Naples in 3 hours with Italo.
And now let’s discover the top 5 pizzerias you absolutely must try during your travels in Italy!
Diego Vitagliano Pizzeria – Naples
Nestled in the Bagnoli district, Diego Vitagliano Pizzeria shines as a culinary gem in Naples’ last neighborhood before Pozzuoli. This area, once an industrial zone, is experiencing a renaissance thanks to ongoing redevelopment projects, and the pizzeria plays a vital role in this transformation.
The restaurant itself is inviting and meticulously designed, with the capacity to host 200 guests—150 inside and 50 in the charming outdoor area that opens during the warmer months. The interior features an open-view oven, offering a fascinating glimpse into the pizza-making process, and includes a dedicated gluten-free section to cater to all dietary needs.
On the menu, you will find a wide array of traditional Campanian pizzas, each crafted with care and expertise.
Beyond its famous pizzas, Diego Vitagliano Pizzeria offers a selection of appetizers and fried specialties, such as the delectable frittatina di bucatini and the crocchè di patate—a savory blend of potatoes, provola cheese, Parmesan, parsley, salt, and pepper, all breaded and fried to perfection.
Located at Via Nuova Agnano, 1, in Naples, this pizzeria is a must-visit for anyone exploring the city. You can contact them at 081 1858 1919. They are open every day, with lunch hours from 12:30 PM to 3:30 PM and dinner from 7:30 PM to midnight.
Diego Vitagliano Pizzeria offers a delightful dining experience where tradition seamlessly blends with modern flair, making it a top destination for pizza aficionados visiting Naples.
I Masanielli – Caserta
It all began in 2001 when Francesco opened I Masanielli, a small takeaway pizzeria. What might have seemed insignificant was, in fact, Francesco’s world—a place where his culinary experiments took shape and his innovative ideas began to shine.
In 2012, I Masanielli moved to a basement location at Viale Lincoln 7.
With this move came a significant change: seating. Though it only accommodated 70 patrons, it was enough to transform the space into a traditional pizzeria setting. However, the pizza served was anything but conventional.
Rapidly gaining a reputation, I Masanielli became a hidden gem in Southern Italy. By 2017, the pizzeria had relocated to its current site at Viale Douhet 11, just a stone’s throw from the magnificent Royal Palace of Caserta, a UNESCO World Heritage site.
This proximity to a symbol of cultural heritage seems to inspire Francesco and his team even more. They continually refine their craft, offering a unique and personal dining experience from appetizers to desserts, earning numerous accolades along the way.
Located in Caserta, at Viale Douhet 11, the pizzeria is open from Tuesday to Sunday, serving lunch from 12 PM to 3 PM and dinner from 7 PM to midnight.
I Masanielli stands out as a culinary beacon, where tradition meets innovation, ensuring an unforgettable experience for anyone lucky enough to dine there.
I Tigli – San Bonifacio (VR)
In San Bonifacio, Verona, I Tigli is redefining what it means to make pizza. Here, the revolution starts with the base itself.
The crust at I Tigli stands out for its flavor, lightness, and digestibility. This reinvented element transforms into a crucial element, harmonizing with ingredients prepared through sophisticated culinary techniques.
The evolution of this idea has led to an ongoing exploration of new pairings and toppings. What began as special event offerings have now become a regular part of the menu, eventually taking center stage in I Tigli’s culinary repertoire.
Each pizza is a testament to creativity and innovation, making every visit a unique dining experience.
I Tigli welcomes guests for lunch from 12:00 PM to 2:00 PM and for dinner from 7:00 PM to 10:00 PM, except on Tuesdays and Wednesdays when the pizzeria is closed.
For more information or to make a reservation, you can call +39 045 6102606 or email info@pizzeriaitigli.it. The pizzeria is located at Via Camporosolo 11, 37047 San Bonifacio, Verona.
With its ground-breaking approach to pizza, I Tigli has become a must-visit for those looking to experience the art of pizza-making taken to new heights. Whether you are a local or a traveler, a meal at I Tigli promises to be an unforgettable journey into the innovative world of Italian cuisine.
Seu Pizza Illuminati – Rome
Seu Pizza Illuminati is the brainchild of renowned pizza chef Pier Daniele Seu and his wife and business partner, Valeria Zuppardo. They have crafted a unique pizza experience based on the principle of achieving the perfect dough—light, airy, and easily digestible.
Their innovative pizza concept features creative toppings made from top-quality ingredients, all inside a vibrant, trendy, yet sophisticated atmosphere.
Opened in March 2018, Seu Pizza Illuminati is located in the Porta Portese neighborhood, just a stone’s throw from the bustling Trastevere area.
The pizzas here are baked in a wood-fired oven, resulting in a delightful hybrid of styles: the soft, fluffy characteristics of Neapolitan pizza combined with the satisfying crunch typical of Roman pizza.
For those eager to visit, you can find Seu Pizza Illuminati at Via Angelo Bargoni, 10 – 18, 00153 Rome RM. For reservations or inquiries, call 06 588 3384.
Seu Pizza Illuminati is celebrated for pushing the boundaries of traditional pizza, making it a must-visit destination for pizza enthusiasts seeking a modern twist on a classic dish.
50 Kalò – Naples
50 Kalò, led by the renowned pizza chef Ciro Salvo, presents a modern take on traditional pizza.
The menu is dynamic, changing with the seasons to highlight Italy’s rich agricultural heritage. Salvo’s commitment to catering to diverse lifestyles and dietary preferences has led to the creation of an entire menu section dedicated to vegetarian pizzas—healthy, sustainable, and flavourful.
The true essence of Neapolitan pizza is brought to life through meticulous selection and research of the finest ingredients.
From DOP buffalo mozzarella and local cheeses like Provolone del Monaco and Pecorino Bagnolese to organic tomatoes curated in partnership with Casa Marrazzo, every component is carefully chosen.
Even the cured meats are artisanal, sourced from small-scale producers, some of which have certified supply chains.
Special attention is given to extra virgin olive oil, added only after baking to enhance the flavor of each pizza. This thoughtful approach to oil selection earned 50 Kalò the AIRO award for Best Olive Oil Pizzeria in Italy in February 2023.
Complementing the pizzas is a wine list, honoured in 2020 by 50 Top Pizza as the best in Italy.
It features a broad range of regional labels, along with a selection of champagnes and Italian sparkling wines, many of which are available by the glass. The beverage offerings are rounded out with a selection of craft beers, personally curated by Ciro Salvo.
50 Kalò is located at Piazza Sannazaro, 201/c, 80121 Naples NA. For reservations or inquiries, you can call 081 1920 4667. 50 Kalò stands out as a beacon of culinary excellence in Naples, where tradition meets innovation, offering a pizza experience that is both authentic and contemporary.
Tips for travelers
To fully enjoy your visit to these top pizzerias in Italy, here are some practical suggestions:
- Make Reservations: Many of these popular pizzerias get busy, especially during peak hours and weekends. Booking a table in advance will save you from long waits and ensure you have a spot;
- Visit During Off-Peak Hours: Arriving early for lunch or dinner can help you avoid the busiest times. Early lunches (around 12:00 PM) and early dinners (around 7:00 PM) generally require less waiting;
- Try Signature Dishes: Each pizzeria offers unique specialties that display their culinary expertise. Do not hesitate to ask for recommendations or try their most celebrated pizzas and appetizers.
- Check Operating Hours: Be aware of the pizzerias’ opening days and hours. Some might be closed on certain weekdays or have specific lunch and dinner timings, so plan accordingly.
- Explore Beverage Options: Many pizzerias have curated selections of local wines, craft beers, and other beverages. Pairing your pizza with a recommended drink can elevate your dining experience.
By following these tips, you can ensure a delightful and memorable visit to some of Italy’s finest pizzerias, savoring the best of what Italian pizza culture has to offer.