In Naples, there’s a certain saying: A Napoli, si mangia bene, meaning: in Naples, you eat well. While Naples is world famous for its authentic pizza (after all, it’s the birthplace), the culinary culture of the city offers much, much more. Here, you’ll find local restaurants serving up traditional dishes, incredibly fresh seafood, and plenty of hidden gems waiting to be discovered. You can find restaurants in Naples that are great for every budget and won’t disappoint your stomach or wallet.
This guide takes you from fine dining to budget eats in the city, so you can experience the most mouthwatering restaurants the Mediterranean city has to offer.
Bistros and Fine Dining in Naples
George Restaurant
George Restaurant is a Michelin starred restaurant located in a five-star hotel dating back to 1870. You can enjoy a breathtaking view of the sea and Vesuvius from the terrace. Neapolitan chef Domenico Candela merges quality local ingredients with creativity learned abroad. He creates memorable seasonings and sauces, such as fermented raspberry jus, black truffle scented mascarpone cream, and lime flavored rum sauce.
Crudorè
Crudorè (Via Carlo Poerio, 45/46) offers an intimate and sophisticated dining experience in the Chiaia neighborhood. If you love raw fish, this restaurant serves some of the best seafood options in Naples. You can expect oysters, shrimp, and fish carpaccio. Their wine list leans heavily on sparkling wine, both from Campania and northern Italy.
Wapo Natural Food
Wapo Natural Food (Via Piazza Ferdinando Fuga, 9) welcomes diners in a minimalist space decorated with 13 different types of natural wood. The chefs use local ingredients to create elevated Mediterranean cuisine. For example, try their pumpkin gnocchi with porcini mushrooms and chestnut oil. All the food is gluten free, making it an optimal choice for people with gluten restrictions.
Opera Restaurant
Opera Restaurant feels like an upscale and refined trattoria. The design-oriented space gives a sophisticated impression, while the talented chefs bring Neapolitan classics to the next level. For instance, they add friarielli (broccoli rabe) and coconut to classic spaghetti with clams. Their creative twists on classics always delight your palate.
If you look for an unforgettable dining experience, try these high-end bistros and fine dining options:
- George Restaurant for a Michelin-starred meal with sea views.
- Crudorè for fresh oysters, carpaccio, and sparkling wines.
- Wapo Natural Food for gluten-free Mediterranean comfort food.
- Opera Restaurant for inventive takes on Neapolitan favorites.
Best Trattorias Honoring Authentic Traditions
A Taverna d’ ‘e Zoccole
At A Taverna d’ ‘e Zoccole (Vico Lungo del Gelso, 96), the hand-written menu changes often. You always find in-season produce, seafood, and sometimes meat. Their antipasti (starters) stand out as especially creative and delectable. For an entrée, order the catch of the day all’acqua pazza—a method that prepares tender fish with olive oil, fresh tomatoes, parsley, and garlic.
Le Zendraglie
Le Zendraglie (Via Pignasecca, 14) sits in one of the oldest markets in Naples. You dine in the open air, soaking in the bustling and sometimes chaotic atmosphere of historical Naples.
Originally a tripperia, this eatery serves tripe fresh with lemon, with tomato sauce, or in a salad. Many consider it a delicacy. However, if tripe isn’t your thing, you can choose from:
- Big plates of spaghetti
- Fried foods like arancini or croquettes
- Grilled calamari and other seafood
Osteria da Carmela
Osteria da Carmela has served up classic Neapolitan fare since 1967. You’ll find eggplant parmesan, fried specialties, and a catch-of-the-day fish option. This restaurant offers an authentic home-style dining experience near the Archaeological Museum.
RestaQmme Club & Restaurant
RestaQmme Club & Restaurant (Via Lucilio, 11) defies categorization. Like a trattoria, this spot serves generous plates of pasta, risotto, and entrées. Yet, it feels more upscale. You can order Neapolitan classics like pasta alla genovese (slow-cooked beef and onion sauce). They also offer inventive options, such as veal cheek braised in local Taurasi wine.
Antica Trattoria Da Carmine
Antica Trattoria Da Carmine (Via dei Tribunali, 330) sits on one of the main historical streets. Do not worry—it’s not a tourist trap! They serve honest portions at fair prices. This spot makes a fantastic lunch stop while you’re walking around Naples sightseeing in the historical center.
Best Naples Budget Restaurants for Perfect Plates of Pasta (& More)
PastéNa
PastéNa (Vico S. Giuseppe Cristofaro, 4) is a hole in the wall at the border of the historical center and the port. The owners call themselves spacciatori di carboidrati—carbohydrate dealers. They serve freshly made Neapolitan pasta. There are only a few seats, but you can enjoy your meal in the nearby piazza if you opt for takeout.
Their specialty is fresh spaghetti with your choice of sauce. They also make homemade meatballs and creative “Neapolitan dumplings” filled with traditional condiments. As an appetizer, try their freshly fried frittata di pasta—a crispy, creamy fried pasta ball.
Cala la Pasta
Cala la Pasta is another tiny budget-friendly spot in Forcella. The restaurant offers:
- Vegetarian, meat, or seafood pasta options
- Bruschetta and second courses
- Vegetable side dishes
They serve generous portions at very low prices. As a result, this is the perfect place where, as they say in Italian: si mangia bene, si spende poco (you eat well for cheap).
Cuccuma Caffè
Cuccuma Caffè is well-known for its strong, smooth espresso brewed with a traditional Neapolitan coffee pot called a cuccuma. The coffee experience alone makes this spot worth a visit. However, the coffee house also serves an amazing lunch. Each table picks a pasta sauce and chooses how many grams of spaghetti to eat. Soon, the waiter brings out a massive plate of steaming spaghetti for everyone to share.
No matter what your budget, you can find something absolutely mouth-watering to eat in Naples.
FAQ: Eating Out in Naples
What makes food in Naples so authentic?
Naples is renowned for its authentic culinary traditions, from pizza to seafood and pasta. Chefs here use local, seasonal ingredients and time-honored recipes passed down through generations. As a result, every dish bursts with genuine Neapolitan flavor.
Are there good options for seafood lovers in Naples?
Absolutely! Naples is famous for its fresh seafood, which features prominently on many menus. Whether you dine at a fine restaurant or discover a hidden gem trattoria, you’ll find delicious options like mussel linguine, fried calamari, and fish prepared all’acqua pazza.
Where can I find traditional dishes beyond pizza?
While pizza is a must-try, Naples offers plenty of restaurants and trattorias serving traditional specialties like eggplant parmesan, pasta alla genovese, fried seafood, and more. Exploring local spots is the best way to taste the full spectrum of classic Neapolitan cuisine.
Can I eat well on a budget in Naples?
You certainly can. Naples offers a wide range of budget-friendly restaurants where you can enjoy generous plates of pasta, traditional dishes, and even seafood, all without breaking the bank. Eating well for less is a Neapolitan specialty!
Want to discover Italy’s unofficial culinary capital? Join us as we eat and drink our way through Neapolitan classics on our Ultimate Naples Food Tour. Get ready for a culinary experience you won’t forget!
