Naples lives by the sea, and its seafood is direct, generous and unfussy. The Bay of Naples supplies everything from tiny clams to swordfish, and the Neapolitan kitchen turns them into some of Italy’s most satisfying dishes.
Here is what to order in Naples, when to go, and how to spot a fish restaurant that locals actually trust.
What to order
Spaghetti alle vongole and the seafood-heavy spaghetti allo scoglio are essential. Impepata di cozze (peppered mussels) is a Naples classic, and frittura di paranza — a basket of small fried fish — is the perfect seaside snack.
Don’t miss sauté di mare (mixed shellfish in white wine) and, for special occasions, a whole fish such as pezzogna (blue-spotted bream) acqua pazza.
Where to eat
The Borgo Marinari around Castel dell’Ovo and the Mergellina and Posillipo waterfronts are the scenic choices. For everyday value, the back streets of the historic centre hide trattorie where the catch is chalked on a board.
As across Italy, prefer places with short, market-driven menus and avoid spots with photo menus and aggressive touts near the busiest squares.