Pizzeria Brandi: A Historic Gem or Overrated Pizza Joint? Our Review

Welcome to the birthplace of the world-renowned Margherita pizza, Pizzeria Brandi. Established in 1760, this charming eatery is situated in Naples, Italy, and has since become a must-visit landmark in the city. Brandi’s reputation for making some of the best Neapolitan pizzas in town precedes itself. If you’re on the hunt for an authentic culinary experience, then Brandi is a top contender.

From its delicious Margherita pizza to its cozy and traditional atmosphere, there’s no shortage of reasons why this pizzeria is a hit with both tourists and locals. In this article, we’ll delve into everything there is to know about Pizzeria Brandi. From its history to its menu, ambiance, and everything in between, we’ll leave no stone unturned. So, let’s begin!

History of Pizzeria Brandi

Established in 1760, Pizzeria Brandi is the oldest pizzeria in Naples, Italy. The restaurant is known for creating the first-ever Margherita pizza in 1889. Legend has it that Queen Margherita of Savoy, while on a visit to Naples, requested to try a pizza. It was then that Raffaele Esposito, the head chef at Pizzeria Brandi, created a pizza that incorporated the colors of the Italian flag: red (tomatoes), white (mozzarella), and green (basil).

The queen was reportedly so pleased with the pizza that she sent a letter of appreciation to Esposito. Since then, the Margherita pizza has become a classic and is enjoyed worldwide.

Ambiance and Atmosphere

When you step into Pizzeria Brandi, you’ll be transported to another era.

The pizzeria has retained its original charm and traditional decor, making it an ideal spot for those who want to experience Naples as it was in the past. The walls are adorned with pictures of famous people who have visited the restaurant, such as Sophia Loren and Ernest Hemingway, adding to the allure of the place.

The restaurant’s layout is cozy and intimate, with wooden tables and chairs, tiled floors, and dim lighting, creating a warm and inviting ambiance. The staff is welcoming and friendly, ensuring that every customer feels at home.

Menu

Of course, the main attraction at Pizzeria Brandi is its delicious pizzas.

The menu includes a variety of classic Neapolitan pizzas, with the Margherita being the most popular. Made with San Marzano tomatoes, buffalo mozzarella, and fresh basil, the Margherita pizza is the perfect blend of simple yet high-quality ingredients, creating a taste that has been enjoyed for over a century.

In addition to the Margherita, Brandi offers other classic Neapolitan pizzas, such as the Marinara and the Capricciosa. The Marinara pizza is made with tomato sauce, garlic, oregano, and extra-virgin olive oil, while the Capricciosa is topped with ham, mushrooms, artichokes, olives, and tomato sauce. The restaurant also offers a selection of antipasti, salads, and desserts, and a variety of drinks, including wine and beer, to complement your meal.

Must try Pizza

Don Enrico pizza, a Margherita with Parma ham, rocket and Parmigiano Reggiano. The tomato is strictly San Marzano and the Fiordilatte comes from Agerola, on the Amalfi coast: the result is spectacular!

Pros & Cons

Pros:

1. Authenticity. Pizzeria Brandi has been serving delicious Neapolitan pizzas since 1760, making it one of the oldest and most authentic pizzerias in Naples.
2. Historic significance. Brandi is also the birthplace of the Margherita pizza, a classic that has been enjoyed around the world for over a century.
3. Cozy ambiance. The restaurant’s traditional decor and warm lighting create a cozy and intimate atmosphere that transports diners to another era.
4. Friendly staff. The staff at Pizzeria Brandi are welcoming and friendly, ensuring that every customer feels at home.
5. The calm. Perhaps one of the most important, but underestimated, aspects of a pizzeria is the perception one has of the place. You know when you don’t feel at ease? But not so much for courtesy as for the hurry they put you in, as if they wanted you to consume and then kick you out to free up the table for the next customer? In this pizzeria, I’m not saying that you will feel like sitting on the sofa at home, but we are close.

Cons:

1. Crowded. Due to its popularity, Pizzeria Brandi can get quite crowded, especially during peak hours. This can lead to longer wait times and a less intimate dining experience.
2. Limited menu. While the restaurant’s pizza selection is excellent, the rest of the menu is relatively limited, with only a few antipasti, salads, and desserts available.
3. Medium price. Pizzeria Brandi’s prices are not the cheapest, but they are also not the most expensive. Some customers may find the prices to be fair, while others may consider them to be too high for a pizzeria.

Price

Dining at Pizzeria Brandi won’t break the bank, but it also won’t leave your wallet feeling light as a feather. The prices are fair for the top-notch quality of the food and the overall experience. Sure, it’s not the cheapest joint in Naples, but you get what you pay for, and the portions are definitely worth the price tag. The ingredients used in their pizzas are so fresh you’ll think they plucked them from the garden out back, and the traditional decor will transport you back in time. All in all, it’s a dining experience that won’t soon be forgotten.

Vote: 8/10

Pizzeria Brandi is an absolute must-visit if you’re looking for a bit of Neapolitan pizza’s heritage. Although the menu is quite limited and the crowds can be overwhelming, the benefits of this establishment outweigh the disadvantages. From the mouthwatering pizza to the charming atmosphere and kind employees, I give Pizzeria Brandi an 8 out of 10. Get a slice and experience the wonder of this renowned pizzeria for yourself immediately!