Introduction
When it comes to pizza, one cannot help but think of Naples, Italy. Pizza connoisseurs hail Naples as the ultimate destination for pizza enthusiasts since it is the birthplace of this beloved dish. But is it truly home to the best pizza in the world? In this article, we will explore this question and delve into the factors that make Naples a pizza paradise.
A Rich History of Pizza in Naples
Naples has a rich history when it comes to pizza. The bustling streets of Naples gave birth to this culinary delight in the 18th century. It was here that pizza as we know it today began to take shape. Neapolitan pizza, characterized by its thin, soft crust and simple yet flavorful toppings, quickly gained popularity among locals and visitors alike.
The Art of Traditional Neapolitan Pizza
Chefs prepare the dough using high-quality ingredients such as flour, water, salt, and yeast. Then the dough sits for several hours, which results in a light and airy crust.
Once the dough is ready, the makers stretch it by hand into a thin round shape. This method, known as “hand-tossing,” requires skill and precision. The toppings, typically consist of San Marzano tomatoes, mozzarella cheese, fresh basil, and a drizzle of olive oil.
Makers cook the pizza in a wood-fired oven at a high temperature for a short period, resulting in a perfectly crispy crust and a flavorful, slightly charred finish. Combining high-quality ingredients, traditional preparation methods, and a unique flavor profile sets Neapolitan pizza apart from its counterparts.
The Neapolitan Pizza Experience
Beyond the technical aspects of pizza-making, the Neapolitan pizza experience is something to be cherished. In Naples, pizza is not simply a meal but a way of life. The city has numerous pizzerias, each with its unique atmosphere and charm.
Visiting a traditional pizzeria in Naples is an experience like no other. The bustling atmosphere, the aroma of freshly baked pizza, and the lively conversations among patrons create an ambiance that cannot be replicated elsewhere. This vibrant and authentic experience adds another layer of allure to Naples’ claim as the ultimate pizza destination.
The Actual Neapolitan Pizza Experience During a Football Championship
When we arrived in Naples, we found the hustle and bustle overwhelming. At the time we were there, Naples was about to win its first Serie A soccer championship in 33 years. People were beyond ecstatic. Everywhere we looked, banners proclaimed the team’s inevitable win.
We located our B&B after we arrived, and the young woman in charge gave us an overview of pizza options and seafood restaurants. After our high-speed train ride from Rome, we were in the mood for pizza! By accident, it turns out our B&B was close to the top two pizzerias. So we set out for #1 which is da Michele. You could see that it was the #1 pizzeria by the line of people waiting to get in. The estimated wait time appeared to be two hours.
We decided to settle for #2, which is Di Matteo. Many people lined up to place their orders amid cars, scooters, and pedestrians making their way down the narrow alley where the pizzeria is situated. Here are some pictures of what it looked like while we were there to place our order and then for the order taker to find us in the crowd to give us our pizzas. We had little faith in their seemingly chaotic process, but they proved us wrong.
Does Naples Truly Have the Best Pizza?
While Naples undeniably holds a special place in the hearts of pizza enthusiasts, it would be unjust to declare it the definitive home of the best pizza in the world. Pizza is a highly subjective culinary experience, and what may be the perfect pizza for one person may not be the same for another.
By the time we found a place to eat the pizza, it had become lukewarm. We were very hungry, but even that did not sway us to rave reviews of the Neapolitan pizza here. Rick found his best pizza in Rome at a little wine bar called Astemio. We happened upon it accidentally, and it not only had the best pizza; but also, this was our nearest encounter with pickpockets/thieves. All while traveling throughout Italy, we were on high alert for potential pickpockets because people warned us to be on high alert. But that story is for a post on Rome. So, back to the pizza.
We did see other people folding the famed pizza in half and then half again and standing or walking away to eat it. So, perhaps this was our error.
Regardless, other regions and cities around the world have their unique pizza styles and flavors that have garnered significant praise. From the deep-dish wonders of Chicago to the flavorful slices of New York City, the pizza landscape is vast and diverse.
Conclusion
So, does Naples, Italy have the best pizza? It is undoubtedly a pizza lover’s paradise. The rich history, traditional preparation methods, and vibrant pizza culture make it a must-visit destination for any pizza enthusiast. However, when it comes to declaring it as the definitive home of the best pizza, it is essential to acknowledge the subjectivity of taste and the multitude of exceptional pizza experiences worldwide. So, while Naples may have a strong case for the crown, the quest for the best pizza continues. It is up to each individual to decide where their taste buds lead them. For other posts on our Italian experiences, those culinary and otherwise, go to Destinations -> Italy.