Pizzeria Da Marco, Naples – Rating the Best Pizza in Town
When it comes to pizza, there’s nowhere quite like Naples. The birthplace of pizza, Naples is renowned for its rich culinary history, vibrant food culture, and, of course, its iconic pizza. During my recent trip to this beautiful city, I knew I had to experience the real deal. After hearing rave reviews from locals and fellow travelers alike, I made my way to Pizzeria Da Marco, a beloved pizzeria known for serving up some of the best pizza in town.
From the moment I entered the restaurant, I was hit with the mouthwatering aroma of freshly baked dough, tomato sauce, and melting mozzarella cheese. Pizzeria Da Marco is everything you’d expect from a traditional Neapolitan pizzeria—warm, cozy, and inviting. The atmosphere was casual yet vibrant, with a mix of locals and tourists filling the restaurant, laughing, chatting, and savoring their meals. The restaurant had an open kitchen, and watching the pizzaiolo (pizza maker) expertly stretch and top the dough before sliding it into the wood-fired oven was truly a mesmerizing experience.
The Menu: Classic Neapolitan Pizzas with a Perfect Twist
The menu at Pizzeria Da Marco is simple but full of mouthwatering options. The pizzeria specializes in classic Neapolitan pizzas, with a variety of toppings to suit every taste. The pizzas are made using only the freshest ingredients: locally sourced San Marzano tomatoes, creamy buffalo mozzarella, and fragrant basil. Each pizza is baked in a traditional wood-fired oven, which imparts a slightly smoky flavor to the crust and ensures the perfect balance of crispy and chewy.
After much deliberation, I decided to go for the Margherita Pizza, the ultimate test of any pizzeria’s authenticity. A true Neapolitan Margherita is a thing of beauty—simple, yet elegant. The pizza arrived piping hot, with a golden, slightly charred crust that was both crisp and pillowy. The mozzarella was soft and gooey, the tomato sauce bright and tangy, and the basil leaves added a refreshing burst of herbal flavor. The combination of flavors was perfect—each bite was like tasting a little piece of Naples itself. It was everything a Margherita should be—light, flavorful, and utterly satisfying. The crust, in particular, was outstanding. Thin and tender, with just the right amount of char on the edges, it had the perfect balance of crunch and chewiness.
Exploring More of the Menu: A Slice of Italy
After finishing my Margherita pizza (which I could have easily devoured two of), I decided to branch out and try another pizza. This time, I opted for the Diavola Pizza, which features spicy salami, tomato sauce, mozzarella, and chili flakes. As soon as the pizza arrived at the table, I could feel the heat from the chili flakes wafting up into the air. The balance of flavors was incredible—the spice from the salami and chili flakes was perfectly balanced by the sweetness of the tomatoes and the richness of the mozzarella. The crust, as with the Margherita, was excellent—crispy, light, and satisfying without being overly thick or doughy.
The spicy salami was of the highest quality—rich, flavorful, and just the right amount of heat to kick things up a notch without overwhelming the other ingredients. The pizza was bursting with bold flavors, and each bite was a delicious contrast of spicy, creamy, and savory elements. If you’re someone who enjoys a bit of heat, the Diavola Pizza is a must-try.
Sides and Extras: Complementing the Pizza
No visit to a pizzeria would be complete without trying a few sides to accompany your meal. I opted for an order of Fritti Misti—a platter of mixed fried snacks that included crispy zucchini flowers, arancini (fried rice balls), and small fried fish. The fritti were perfectly crispy and lightly battered, and each bite was a delightful contrast to the softness of the pizza. The zucchini flowers were delicate and savory, while the arancini had a cheesy, creamy interior that melted in my mouth. The fried fish added a delightful touch, and they were the perfect way to start the meal.
I also tried their Insalata Caprese, a simple salad made with fresh buffalo mozzarella, ripe tomatoes, basil, and a drizzle of olive oil. The quality of the mozzarella was outstanding, with a creamy, soft texture that paired wonderfully with the sweet, juicy tomatoes. The fresh basil added a fragrant note, and the olive oil enhanced the flavors, making it a refreshing side to the rich and hearty pizza.
