RU 
ES 
FR 
EN 
IT 
For many visitors, Naples is the city of the Margherita pizza. And rightly so. Traditional Neapolitan pizza remains one of the city's greatest symbols and an essential experience for anyone visiting Naples.
In recent years, however, a new generation of pizzaioli has begun to explore fresh ideas alongside tradition. Without abandoning the classic recipes that made Naples famous around the world, they have introduced longer fermentation times, carefully selected ingredients and creative flavour combinations.
This movement is often referred to as contemporary pizza or gourmet pizza. Rather than replacing tradition, it celebrates its evolution, proving that an iconic dish can continue to innovate while remaining true to its origins.
If you're spending a few days in Naples, the ideal experience is to enjoy both worlds: start with a traditional Margherita or Marinara, then dedicate another evening to discovering the city's contemporary pizza scene.
What is gourmet pizza?
The term "gourmet pizza" can sometimes be misleading. It doesn't simply mean a more expensive pizza or one topped with luxury ingredients.
Instead, it describes a different philosophy. Every element of the pizza is carefully considered, from the flour and fermentation process to the quality of the toppings and the balance of flavours.
Many contemporary pizzaioli work with long fermentation techniques, seasonal produce, artisan cheeses, selected cured meats and ingredients sourced from small local producers. The objective is not excess, but harmony.
The result is a pizza that still reflects the Neapolitan tradition while offering a more refined and creative dining experience.
Tradition and innovation can coexist
In Naples, pizza is much more than food; it is part of the city's identity. That is why every innovation naturally sparks debate.
Some believe the classic recipes should never change, while others see experimentation as a natural continuation of a centuries-old tradition that has always evolved over time.
The reality is that these two approaches complement each other beautifully.
Traditional pizza continues to represent the heart of Neapolitan cuisine, while contemporary pizza demonstrates how creativity can enrich that heritage without replacing it.
For visitors, experiencing both styles offers a broader and more authentic understanding of Naples' extraordinary food culture.
The art begins with the dough
One of the defining features of contemporary pizza is the attention given to the dough itself.
Today's pizzaioli spend years refining recipes, experimenting with different flours, hydration levels and fermentation times to achieve a crust that is light, airy and easy to digest.
Every stage of the process is carefully controlled, from the preparation of the dough to the baking time and even the order in which certain ingredients are added after the pizza comes out of the oven.
This constant research has helped establish Naples as one of Europe's leading destinations for contemporary pizza, attracting food lovers eager to discover how tradition continues to evolve.
Ingredients with stories to tell
Another characteristic of gourmet pizza is the careful selection of ingredients.
Alongside iconic products from Campania, many pizzaioli incorporate ingredients from other Italian regions and even international culinary traditions. Artisan cheeses, premium cured meats, seasonal vegetables, seafood, aromatic herbs and carefully chosen spices are combined to create balanced and original recipes.
Each pizza is designed with a specific idea in mind, often inspired by the seasons, a particular region or flavours discovered through travel.
The aim is never to overwhelm the palate but to create harmony, allowing every ingredient to contribute to the final result.
A menu that changes throughout the year
Unlike traditional pizzerias, many contemporary pizza restaurants regularly update part of their menu according to the seasons.
Spring brings fresh vegetables and herbs, summer highlights tomatoes and lighter flavours, while autumn and winter feature ingredients such as mushrooms, pumpkin, truffles and richer cheeses.
This seasonal approach encourages guests to return, knowing that each visit may offer something different while showcasing ingredients at their very best.
A different kind of pizza experience
Choosing a gourmet pizza isn't simply about ordering a pizza with more toppings.
It is about discovering a different interpretation of one of Italy's most famous dishes. Every combination is carefully balanced, every ingredient has a purpose and every pizza tells its own story.
For this reason, many visitors to Naples choose to enjoy both experiences during their stay: one evening dedicated to traditional Neapolitan pizza and another to exploring the city's vibrant contemporary pizza scene.
A contemporary pizza experience near Hotel Il Convento
If you'd like to discover contemporary pizza during your stay in Naples, one of the easiest places to reach from Hotel Il Convento is OWAP Pignasecca, located on Via Pasquale Scura, around a 15-minute walk from the hotel.
Its name stands for One World All Pizzas, reflecting the restaurant's philosophy of combining the foundations of Neapolitan pizza with flavours and inspirations from around the world.
The menu includes timeless classics such as the Margherita and Marinara alongside more creative seasonal pizzas that explore unusual yet carefully balanced combinations. The focus remains on high-quality ingredients, well-crafted dough and a willingness to experiment while respecting Neapolitan tradition.
The atmosphere is relaxed and contemporary, making it a great choice after a day spent exploring Naples' historic centre, the Spanish Quarter or the lively Pignasecca Market.
Is gourmet pizza worth trying?
Absolutely—but ideally after you've experienced a classic Neapolitan pizza.
If this is your first visit to Naples, we recommend starting with the city's most iconic recipes. They remain the best introduction to a culinary tradition that has become famous all over the world.
Then, if you have another evening available, try a contemporary pizza. You'll discover how today's pizzaioli continue to reinterpret a centuries-old tradition with creativity, technical skill and outstanding ingredients.
Naples proudly preserves its culinary heritage while continuing to innovate, and gourmet pizza is one of the best examples of this balance between past and present.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is gourmet pizza?
Gourmet pizza is a contemporary interpretation of traditional pizza, focusing on long fermentation, premium ingredients, seasonal produce and creative flavour combinations while respecting the Neapolitan style.
What's the difference between traditional and contemporary pizza?
Traditional Neapolitan pizza follows classic recipes that have become part of the city's identity. Contemporary pizza builds on that tradition by experimenting with dough, ingredients and presentation.
Where can I try gourmet pizza near Hotel Il Convento?
One convenient option is OWAP Pignasecca, located on Via Pasquale Scura, just a short walk from the hotel.
Should I choose traditional or gourmet pizza?
Our recommendation is simple: try both. Traditional pizza introduces you to Naples' culinary heritage, while gourmet pizza shows how that tradition continues to evolve.
Is it necessary to book a table?
Booking is recommended, especially on weekends and during the busiest tourist seasons, as contemporary pizzerias are often very popular with both locals and visitors.
To discover the origins of this iconic dish, don't miss our article about Neapolitan pizza, where we explore its history, traditions and the recipes that made Naples famous around the world.
