Trattoria Nennella

Trattoria Nennella is a famous family trattoria in the Quartieri Spagnoli of Naples, Campania, Italy, reported to have moved to Piazza Carita 22 near Via Toledo after leaving its former premises on Vico Lungo Teatro Nuovo. The Quartieri Spagnoli is the dense grid of narrow lanes climbing west of Via Toledo, and the trattoria is among the best-known places in it, recognised for its raucous atmosphere and for waiters who shout orders, joke with the tables and, according to many accounts, sing. The cuisine is classic Neapolitan home cooking, served in generous portions at modest prices. The signature dishes include pasta e patate con provola, the creamy potato pasta enriched with smoked cheese, as well as polpette (meatballs) and genovese, the slow-cooked onion and beef sauce served over pasta that is a speciality of Naples despite its name. The menu follows the market and changes through the day, with a short list of fixed plates. The dining room is loud, crowded and communal in feel, with tightly spaced tables and a lively, theatrical energy that suits groups and visitors who want a very local experience. There is no dress code, and the noise level is high. The beverage list is simple, with house wine, beer and water. Prices are low to moderate, at about EUR 10-20 (roughly $12-$23) per person, which makes it good value in a central location. Walk-ins are the norm, and a booking by phone is advisable for groups, particularly at lunch on weekends and in the tourist season. Because the trattoria has moved, visitors should confirm the current address and hours locally before going. The Piazza Carita location is a short walk from Via Toledo, the Toledo metro station and Piazza Trieste e Trento, so it fits easily into a day of central sightseeing and shopping.