Following a brief hiatus after the closure of its Happy Valley outpost in October, the Michelin-recognized Italian pizzeria Little Napoli has officially resumed operations in Wan Chai. Opened on December 10, the new venue promises an expanded dining area and a menu featuring exclusive “Wallet Pizza” creations, continuing Chef Gavino Pilo’s mission to deliver authentic Neapolitan flavors to Hong Kong.
A New Home for Neapolitan Tradition
Originally established in 2021, Little Napoli quickly garnered a loyal following in Happy Valley for its strict adherence to traditional pizza-making techniques. Chef Pilo, a native of Naples, utilizes a specialized stone oven imported from his hometown. The oven reaches temperatures of 400 degrees Celsius, creating the signature crust that is crisp on the exterior yet characteristically soft and airy inside.
The relocation to Wan Chai marks a significant upgrade for the establishment. The interior design features custom-ordered, retro-style floor tiles from Italy, curated to evoke the distinct atmosphere of a Southern Italian streetside eatery. The expanded indoor space allows for a more comfortable dining experience, aiming to accommodate the high demand that previously characterized the original location.
Introducing the Pizza Portafoglio Series
The Wan Chai opening introduces the Pizza Portafoglio (Wallet Pizza) series, a creative solution designed for the modern diner on the go. Historically, Neapolitan pizza was a street food consumed while walking; however, the soft center often made this messy. The “Wallet” style involves folding the pizza into a compact, wallet-like shape, making it ideal for takeaway without sacrificing structural integrity.
Highlights of the new series include:
- Zingara: A meat-lover’s dream featuring a generous portion of Parma ham.
- Contadina: A blend of traditional flavors with unique ingredient pairings.
- Margherita: The classic favorite, reimagined in a portable format.
Expanding the Culinary Repertoire
Beyond the new pizza format, the kitchen has expanded its offerings to include Pizza Fritta (fried pizza). The Dondiego variety stands out for its non-greasy finish and savory profile, offering a texture distinct from baked pizzas. Additionally, the appetizer menu now features Melanzane in Carrozza. This eggplant-based dish has surprised early tasters with a texture often compared to fish, featuring layered interiors that add complexity to the palate.
How to Eat Like a Local
To assist diners in navigating the authentic Neapolitan experience, the restaurant provides guidance on the proper consumption of their soft-centred pizzas. The traditional method involves cutting the pizza into four quarters and folding them in half. This technique prevents the toppings from sliding off the soft dough, ensuring a perfect bite every time. Instructional diagrams are even provided on takeaway boxes for novices.
With its strategic Wan Chai location and a menu that balances time-honored tradition with modern convenience, Little Napoli looks set to reclaim its status as a top destination for Italian cuisine in the city. The combination of Michelin-recognized quality and a fresh, accessible dining format offers a compelling reason for food enthusiasts to revisit this celebrated establishment.