The birthplace of pizza Margherita, Pizzeria Brandi has been serving pizza since 1780. In 1889, chef Raffaele Esposito created the Margherita here for Queen Margherita of Savoy, topping it with tomato, mozzarella, and basil to represent the Italian flag.
Pizzeria Brandi holds a singular place in culinary history as the birthplace of the pizza Margherita as it is known today. In June 1889, chef Raffaele Esposito and his wife Maria Giovanna Brandi were commissioned to prepare pizzas for Queen Margherita of Savoy, who was visiting Naples. Among the three varieties Esposito created, the one topped with tomato, mozzarella, and fresh basil — representing the red, white, and green of the Italian flag — so pleased the queen that it was named in her honour. A handwritten letter of thanks from the royal household, still displayed in the restaurant, documents the occasion. The pizzeria traces its origins even further back, to a tavern founded on the same site in 1780. Today Brandi occupies a discreet lane just off the elegant Chiaia neighbourhood, tucked behind the Piazza del Plebiscito. The dining room is comfortable and atmospheric, with old photographs and memorabilia referencing the establishment's storied past. The menu extends well beyond pizza to include pasta and seafood, but the Margherita Originale remains the dish of pilgrimage for food-history enthusiasts. The neighbourhood setting, quieter than the centro storico pizzerias further north, gives the experience a somewhat calmer character than the more touristed rivals on Via dei Tribunali.
Signature dishes
- Margherita Originale — €8
- Quattro Stagioni — €10
Good to know
- Known for
- Birthplace of pizza Margherita in 1889
- Hours
- 12:30 PM - 3:00 PM, 7:00 PM - 11:30 PM (closed Monday)
Location
Salita Sant'Anna di Palazzo 1, 80132 Naples NA
40.8388, 14.2498 View on map
Highlights
- Birthplace of the pizza Margherita in 1889 — created for Queen Margherita of Savoy and named in her honour
- Royal letter of thanks from the House of Savoy is displayed in the restaurant
- Founded 1780 — one of the oldest food establishments in Naples
- Located in the Chiaia neighbourhood, away from the main tourist pizza corridor
- Extended menu includes pasta and seafood alongside the historic Margherita
Tips for visiting
- Order the Margherita Originale — the historical context makes it the meaningful choice here
- Reservations are advisable for dinner, especially on weekends; the restaurant is smaller than the famous via dei Tribunali pizzerias
- Lunch service is less crowded than dinner and allows more time to examine the historic memorabilia on the walls
- The Chiaia location makes this a natural stop on an afternoon walk from the seafront or Piazza del Plebiscito
Accessibility
Pizzeria Brandi is approached via a narrow lane with some steps at the entrance; the site is not fully wheelchair accessible. Visitors with mobility requirements should contact the restaurant in advance to discuss options.
Frequently asked questions
Is Pizzeria Brandi really where pizza Margherita was invented?
The historical record strongly supports the claim. A letter dated June 1889 from the royal household confirming the queen's satisfaction with the Margherita pizza is displayed in the restaurant and has been widely cited by food historians.
How does Brandi compare to other famous Naples pizzerias?
Brandi is more of a full-service restaurant than a pure pizzeria, with a broader menu and a quieter, more refined atmosphere. Pizza quality is high but the experience is somewhat more tourist-oriented than da Michele or Sorbillo.
Does Pizzeria Brandi take reservations?
Yes. Reservations are recommended for dinner service, particularly in high season. The restaurant is smaller than many comparable establishments and fills quickly.
Where exactly is Pizzeria Brandi located?
The address is Salita Sant'Anna di Palazzo 1, just off Via Chiaia in the elegant Chiaia district, a short walk from Piazza del Plebiscito and the Royal Palace.