After a two-month hiatus that left loyal fans disappointed, the beloved Neapolitan pizzeria Little Napoli has officially reopened its doors in a new location in Wan Chai on December 10. The restaurant, which earned a Michelin Bib Gourmand recognition, moved from its original Happy Valley home to a larger space designed to evoke the charm of southern Italy.
A New Chapter for a Hong Kong Favorite
Little Napoli first opened in Happy Valley in 2021 and quickly became a cult favourite among pizza enthusiasts. The restaurant’s temporary closure on October 4, 2023, sparked an outpouring of regret from regulars who had come to rely on its authentic wood-fired pies. Now, the team has bounced back with a venue that not only offers more indoor seating but also features bespoke vintage-style tiles imported directly from Italy — a deliberate choice to replicate the ambiance of a small trattoria in Naples.
Owner and chef Gavino Pilo, a native of Naples, remains the driving force behind the kitchen. He continues to uphold the traditions of his hometown: using premium ingredients sourced from Italy, and baking each pizza at 400°C in a stone oven imported from Naples. This high-heat technique produces a distinctive crust — crisp on the outside yet soft and airy inside.
What’s New on the Menu
The Wan Chai branch introduces several exciting additions alongside the classic lineup.
Wallet Pizza (Pizza Portafoglio)
One of the most innovative offerings is the Pizza Portafoglio — literally “wallet pizza.” Designed for on-the-go dining, these folded pizzas are perfect for takeaway. The classic Margherita is presented in a neat, pocket-like shape, ensuring every bite is packed with flavour. Two new varieties are now available:
- Contadina — a rustic option featuring traditional countryside ingredients
- Zingara — loaded with generous portions of Parma ham, appealing to meat lovers
Fried Pizza (Pizza Fritta)
The Pizza Fritta selection has also been expanded. A standout is the Dondiego, a long-shaped fried pastry that, despite its preparation method, remains surprisingly light and not greasy. It offers a satisfying savoury option for those seeking a different texture.
Classic Pizzas and Neapolitan Snacks
For purists, the traditional pizza lineup remains unchanged — the same soft-centred, thin-crust Neapolitan pies that made the restaurant famous. Diners are encouraged to follow the authentic Neapolitan method: cut the pizza into four pieces and fold each slice to prevent toppings from falling off. The takeaway boxes even include illustrated instructions.
Additionally, the new location presents a range of Neapolitan snacks. The Melanzane in Carrozza — a layered eggplant dish — has been described by early tasters as remarkably fish-like in texture, defying expectations of what eggplant can be.
Dining Experience and Pricing
The restaurant’s interior has been thoughtfully designed to transport guests to the streets of southern Italy. Vintage tiles, warm lighting, and an open kitchen create an inviting atmosphere. Menu prices reflect the premium ingredients and craftsmanship:
- Classic Margherita Wallet Pizza: around HK$98
- Zingara Wallet Pizza: approximately HK$138
- Fried Pizza Dondiego: roughly HK$88
- Snacks like Melanzane in Carrozza: HK$68–HK$88
Prices are subject to change; please check the restaurant’s latest menu.
Why This Matters for Hong Kong’s Food Scene
The reopening of Little Napoli in Wan Chai signals more than just a relocation — it reflects a growing appetite for authentic, region-specific Italian cuisine in Hong Kong. As the city’s dining landscape becomes increasingly competitive, pizzerias that invest in traditional techniques and imported ingredients are carving out a loyal niche. For fans of Neapolitan pizza, this new chapter offers a chance to rediscover a favourite — and to try something new.
Little Napoli Wan Chai
Address: G/F, 12–14 Ship Street, Wan Chai
Opening Hours: Daily, 12:00 PM – 10:00 PM (subject to change)
Reservations: Recommended, especially for dinner
Related Reading: For more Hong Kong pizza reviews, check out our guide to the best wood-fired pizzerias in the city.