Every Neapolitan has their own favorite pizzeria, and many highlight Starita as one of the best in the city. The Sempre Napoli guide also features this family-owned gem, so we had to visit it again during our last trip to Napoli this November.
STORY
Starita, established in 1901, quickly became a must-visit destination in the city. In 1954, they contributed to the filming of Vittorio De Sica’s L’oro di Napoli with Sophia Loren, but this isn't the only reason they're famous. Their Marinara is a must-try, as are the Corna di Maradona (a horseshoe-shaped, fried pizza dough filled with ricotta, cicoli, and black pepper) and the Montanara Starita pizza (featuring provola cheese and a secret sauce).
Antonio Starita (or Don Antonio), has firmly carried the tradition of the Materdei pizzeria on over the years, becoming one of the founding members of the Associazione de le pizzerie Centenarie and ensuring the recognition of Neapolitan pizza as a traditional specialty guaranteed by the EU.
FOOD
This time, our menu included the Margherita, a stuffed zucchini flower, the Miss Italia pizza (with Parma ham and Grana Padano), and another option with zucchini—the Fiorilli and Zucchini pizza. The dough was perfect: soft on the inside, crispy on the outside, and every ingredient was exceptionally delicious.
If you want to try something different, you can choose from their signature pizzas, classic options, some gourmet variations, and even fried pizzas. They also offer starters and desserts on the menu, and it’s said that their Frittatina di Pasta is a must-try. As for drinks, the pizzeria also serves cocktails and organic wines.
Starita never disappoints. Operated by Don Antonio, alongside Rosaria, their son Peppe, and their daughter Mena, it’s a friendly and buzzing pizzeria in the charming Materdei neighborhood. I’m sure there will always be people lining up at their doors, so trust me: it’s worth booking in advance!
PRO TIP
They also have a lovely B&B for those who don't want be too far away from their pizzas. It is called Starita Bed and Pizza, located right above the pizzeria itself on Via Materdei. We stayed here for three nights, and this family-run accommodation was very welcoming, tidy, and conveniently close to the city center. A perfect spot to discover Napoli from!
Address: Via Materdei, 27/28, 80136 Napoli NA, Italy
