Naples, the heart of Southern Italy, is a city that awakens with the aroma of freshly baked pastries, strong coffee, and savory delights. Breakfast in Naples is not just a meal; it’s a daily celebration of flavors, where locals indulge in their cherished morning routines, from espresso shots to sweet sfogliatella. Whether you’re a visitor eager to discover the city’s breakfast culture or a local seeking new spots, this guide to the best breakfasts in Naples in 2025 is your go-to for starting the day right.
1. Espresso and Sfogliatella: A Classic Neapolitan Pairing
Why It’s the Ultimate Neapolitan Breakfast
In Naples, breakfast often starts with an espresso—rich, dark, and served with a quick shot of sugar for the perfect balance. This is accompanied by sfogliatella, a traditional pastry with layers of thin, crispy dough and a sweet ricotta filling. It’s the quintessential breakfast combination that locals swear by.
Where to Try It
- Scaturchio: Known for its legendary sfogliatella and perfect espresso.
- Pasticceria Attanasio: Famous for their fresh, warm sfogliatella and strong coffee.
What Makes It Special
The balance between the sweet, creamy filling of the sfogliatella and the strong bitterness of the espresso creates an irresistible contrast. Whether you opt for the riccia (crispy) or frolla (soft) version of the pastry, it’s a classic that never disappoints.
2. Cornetto e Cappuccino: The Italian Twist on Croissants
The Popular Morning Combo
While Naples is famous for its sfogliatella, cornetto (the Italian version of a croissant) and cappuccino are also favorite breakfast choices. Light, buttery cornetti are often filled with cream, jam, or chocolate, making for a satisfying start to the day.
Where to Try It
- Gran Caffè Gambrinus: A historical café offering a perfect blend of cornetti and cappuccini in a grand setting.
- Caffè Mexico: A beloved spot for a delicious cappuccino and freshly baked cornetti.
What Makes It Special
The cornetto’s airy texture paired with the creamy froth of a cappuccino provides a comforting and indulgent breakfast, perfect for a leisurely start.
3. Frittata di Maccheroni: Neapolitan Savory Breakfast
A Hearty Morning Dish
Unlike the sweet breakfast pastries Naples is known for, frittata di maccheroni offers a savory alternative. This dish is made from leftover pasta (usually macaroni), eggs, cheese, and cured meats, all fried together into a thick, satisfying omelet.
Where to Try It
- Trattoria da Nennella: A classic Neapolitan trattoria serving traditional frittata.
- Pizzeria La Figlia del Presidente: Not just pizza, but also great frittata options.
What Makes It Special
The frittata di maccheroni is hearty and filling, perfect for those looking for a savory breakfast. It’s a clever way to use leftovers and is a reflection of Naples’ resourceful and delicious cuisine.
4. Pizza Margherita for Breakfast: A Bold Neapolitan Choice
Why Not Start the Day with Pizza?
Naples is the birthplace of pizza, and it’s not just for lunch or dinner. Pizza Margherita is commonly enjoyed at breakfast, offering a fresh, simple start to the day with mozzarella di bufala, fresh basil, and a rich tomato sauce on a soft, airy crust.
Where to Try It
- L’Antica Pizzeria da Michele: One of the oldest pizzerias in Naples, serving pizza Margherita that’s perfect any time of day.
- Sorbillo: A modern take on the classic, often enjoyed for breakfast by locals.
What Makes It Special
Pizza at breakfast might sound unusual to visitors, but in Naples, it’s a part of the culture. The combination of fresh ingredients on a light, thin crust makes it a perfect way to kick off the morning.
5. Pastiera Napoletana: Traditional Sweet Breakfast for Easter
A Taste of Tradition
Although traditionally eaten at Easter, pastiera napoletana—a sweet ricotta and wheat pie flavored with orange flower water—is enjoyed year-round by many Neapolitans as a breakfast treat.
Where to Try It
- Pasticceria Bellavia: Known for its traditional and seasonal pastiera.
- Pasticceria Pintauro: Famous for crafting authentic Neapolitan desserts, including pastiera.
What Makes It Special
The combination of creamy ricotta, candied citrus peel, and a subtle floral aroma creates a deeply satisfying and comforting breakfast, especially for those who enjoy something sweet and flavorful.
6. Gnocchi alla Sorrentina: A Breakfast of Comfort
A Filling and Flavorful Dish
While gnocchi is usually a lunchtime or dinner dish, many Neapolitans enjoy gnocchi alla sorrentina for breakfast. Soft potato dumplings baked in a rich tomato sauce with melted mozzarella cheese make this a hearty and comforting choice.
Where to Try It
- Ristorante La Cucina di Mamma: A cozy spot offering traditional Sorrentine-style gnocchi.
- Osteria La Chitarra: Known for their exceptional gnocchi and other hearty dishes.
What Makes It Special
This dish combines soft, pillowy gnocchi with the tangy richness of tomato and mozzarella, providing a wholesome and filling start to the day.
7. Zeppole di San Giuseppe: Sweet Donuts for Special Occasions
An Iconic Neapolitan Pastry
Zeppole di San Giuseppe, often enjoyed on March 19 for St. Joseph’s Day, are deep-fried doughnuts filled with creamy custard and topped with a cherry. They’re also a popular choice for breakfast during other times of the year.
Where to Try It
- Pasticceria Scaturchio: Famous for its perfectly made zeppole.
- Pasticceria Giovanni: A local favorite for freshly made zeppole.
What Makes It Special
The crispy exterior of the zeppola, combined with the rich custard filling, creates a delicious contrast that makes for a decadent breakfast treat.
8. Caffè e Fiocchetti: A Neapolitan Twist on Pastry
Sweet Bites to Pair with Coffee
For a light and sweet breakfast, fiocchetti—small, fried pastry pockets filled with honey or chocolate—are a delightful choice. They are often paired with a strong espresso or a cappuccino.
Where to Try It
- Caffè Mexico: Known for their excellent coffee and pastry selection.
- Caffè del Professore: A classic Neapolitan café where you can enjoy fiocchetti with your morning coffee.
What Makes It Special
The delicate sweetness of the fiocchetti and the smoothness of the coffee create a satisfying yet light breakfast experience, ideal for a quick start.
9. Capuccino Freddo and Granita: A Cool Morning Choice
Chill Out with a Cold Capuccino
If you’re visiting Naples in the summer, nothing beats a refreshing capuccino freddo (cold cappuccino) or a granita—a frozen dessert made from fruit, coffee, or nuts.
Where to Try It
- Caffè Gambrinus: A historic café where you can enjoy a refreshing capuccino freddo.
- Bar del Professore: Known for their creamy granita and chilled drinks.
What Makes It Special
When the weather is warm, the cool, frothy capuccino freddo offers the perfect balance of refreshment and caffeine. Granita, on the other hand, is a sweet, icy treat that provides a delightful break from the heat.
10. Italian Yogurt and Fresh Fruit: A Light Yet Delicious Breakfast
For a Healthier Start
For those seeking a lighter and healthier breakfast, Italian yogurt served with fresh fruit, honey, and nuts is a popular choice in Naples. This simple dish offers a great balance of flavors while being easy on the stomach.
Where to Try It
- Caffè Letterario: A trendy café offering delicious yogurt bowls with fresh fruit and granola.
- Le Parule: Known for their healthy, fresh breakfast options, including yogurt and fruit bowls.
What Makes It Special
This breakfast choice provides a refreshing, nutritious start to the day with the creamy richness of yogurt complemented by the sweetness of seasonal fruits and a drizzle of honey.
Conclusion
Naples offers an incredible variety of breakfast options, from sweet pastries like sfogliatella and cornetto to savory dishes like frittata di maccheroni. Whether you’re indulging in a historic espresso or savoring a hearty gnocchi dish, there’s no better place to begin your day than Naples. In 2025, these breakfast spots offer an authentic taste of the city’s culture, with options to suit every craving. Buon giorno e buon appetito!
