Antica Pizzeria Port’Alba: The First Pizzeria in The World

The First Pizzeria in The World

Established in 1738 as a humble stand for peddlers, Antica Pizzeria Port’Alba solidified its place in culinary history when it officially opened its doors in 1830 at Via Port’Alba 18, nestled in the heart of Naples, Italy. Renowned as the birthplace of modern pizza, it holds the distinction of being widely acknowledged as the world’s first pizzeria.

The origins of this iconic eatery trace back to a time when street vendors roamed Naples, wielding wood-fired ovens to craft their delectable pies. These vendors would roam the streets with their freshly baked pizzas, kept warm in small tin stoves balanced precariously on their heads. What started as a convenient street food soon evolved into a social hub, attracting a diverse clientele. Among its regulars were artists, students, and locals of modest means, drawn by the affordable and satisfying fare offered by Antica Pizzeria Port’Alba.

In its early days, the pizzas served at the pizzeria were humble and straightforward, adorned with simple toppings like oil and garlic. Despite their simplicity, these pizzas garnered a devoted following, becoming emblematic of Neapolitan cuisine. To accommodate its patrons, a unique payment system known as “pizza a otto” was devised, allowing customers to settle their bills up to eight days after enjoying their meal. This unconventional arrangement gave rise to a local jest, suggesting that a meal at Port’Alba might just be one’s last free indulgence if fate intervened before the debt could be repaid. Such was the charm and camaraderie of this establishment that patrons often expressed their admiration through poetry dedicated to the humble pizza.

Today, Antica Pizzeria Port’Alba stands as a testament to the enduring legacy of Neapolitan pizza culture. Still operating from its original location, it remains a vibrant culinary landmark nestled amidst a cluster of quaint bookstores. Its time-honored tradition of serving authentic, mouthwatering pizzas continues to draw locals and tourists alike, reaffirming its status as the progenitor of a global culinary phenomenon.