Must-Try Foods In Naples Underground (Napoli Sotterranea) (Naples) For Tourists 2026 - 2027

Food History of Naples Underground (Napoli Sotterranea), Naples, Italy

The Naples Underground, known as Napoli Sotterranea, is a historical site with a fascinating background that includes its use as a network of underground tunnels and catacombs dating back to Greek and Roman times. These subterranean spaces have a rich history that intertwines with the city's culinary past.

In the periods of Greek and Roman influence, the underground tunnels were also used for the storage of foods due to their cool temperatures, which naturally preserved perishables such as cheeses and cured meats. During World War II, these same tunnels provided shelter for Neapolitans and a place to secure their food from the devastation above.

Must Try Top 10 Food Dishes in Naples for Tourists

1. Pizza Margherita (Vegetarian): A globally-renowned dish originating in Naples, it's a must-try, with simple fresh ingredients: tomatoes, mozzarella cheese, fresh basil, salt, and olive oil.
2. Spaghetti alla Puttanesca (Pescatarian): A tangy and slightly spicy dish made with tomatoes, olives, capers, anchovies, and garlic.
3. Parmigiana di Melanzane (Vegetarian): Sliced eggplant layered with cheese and tomato sauce, then baked to perfection.
4. Gnocchi alla Sorrentina (Vegetarian): Potato dumplings baked in a tomato sauce with mozzarella and basil.
5. Impepata di Cozze (Pescatarian): Mussels cooked in a broth of white wine, garlic, and black pepper, usually served with slices of crusty bread.
6. Pasta e Fagioli (Vegetarian): A hearty pasta and bean soup seasoned with rosemary, garlic, and olive oil.
7. Sfogliatella (Vegetarian): A shell-shaped filled pastry with a ricotta cheese mixture, often flavored with candied peels and a dusting of powdered sugar.
8. Zuppa di Lenticchie (Vegetarian): A comforting lentil soup that's a staple in Neapolitan cuisine, typically served with a drizzle of olive oil and crusty bread.
9. Crostini con Alici (Pescatarian): Small pieces of toasted bread topped with a mixture of anchovies and butter or oil.
10. Frittata di Pasta (Vegetarian): A pasta "omelette" made with leftover pasta, eggs, cheese, and herbs, cooked until golden brown.

Top Famous Restaurants in Naples Underground (Napoli Sotterranea)

L'Antica Pizzeria da Michele

Address: Via Cesare Sersale, 1, 80139 Napoli NA, Italy

Famous Food: Pizza Margherita (Vegetarian)

Trattoria da Nennella

Address: Vico Lungo Teatro Nuovo, 103/105, 80134 Napoli NA, Italy

Famous Food: Pasta e Fagioli (Vegetarian)

La Masardona

Address: Via Giulio Cesare Capaccio, 27, 80142 Napoli NA, Italy

Famous Food: Cicoli e Fagioli (Pescatarian, contains cicoli which are small bits of crisped pork fat; if considering dietary restrictions, the restaurant may offer vegetarian alternatives)

Sorbillo

Address: Via dei Tribunali, 32, 80138 Napoli NA, Italy

Famous Food: Pizza Marinara (Pescatarian, typically without seafood, despite the name, but check with the restaurant for variations)

Pasticceria Bellavia

Address: Via Luca Giordano, 104, 80127 Napoli NA, Italy

Famous Food: Sfogliatella (Vegetarian)

Please note that restaurant menus can change, and it is advisable to check with the establishment for current offerings to ensure they meet your dietary preferences and restrictions.