Hong Kong’s beloved Neapolitan pizzeria returns after temporary closure, bringing authentic Italian flavours and innovative menu items to a larger, thoughtfully designed venue.
Little Napoli, the Michelin-recognised pizzeria that captured the hearts of Hong Kong diners since its 2021 debut in Happy Valley, has officially reopened its doors at a new location in Wan Chai as of December 10. The relaunch marks the end of a temporary closure that began on October 4, much to the relief of its devoted following. Owner and head chef Gavino Pilo, a native of Naples, Italy, has not only expanded the indoor seating capacity but also imported vintage-style tiles directly from Italy to recreate the warm, rustic ambiance of a Southern Italian trattoria.
From Happy Valley to Wan Chai: A New Chapter
Little Napoli quickly earned a stellar reputation for its artisanal Neapolitan pizzas, baked at an intense 400 degrees Celsius in a wood-fired stone oven imported from Naples. This high-temperature technique produces the signature crispy exterior and soft, airy interior that defines authentic Neapolitan pizza. Pilo’s commitment to using premium ingredients sourced from his homeland has been a cornerstone of the restaurant’s success.
The new Wan Chai venue represents a significant upgrade. The expanded dining area accommodates more guests, while the carefully curated decor—featuring those custom Italian floor tiles—transports diners straight to the bustling streets of Naples. “We wanted every detail to reflect the spirit of Southern Italy,” Pilo shared in a recent interview. “From the moment guests walk in, they should feel the warmth and hospitality of our hometown.”
Fresh Menu Additions: Wallet Pizza and Beyond
True to its innovative spirit, Little Napoli has introduced several exciting new offerings. The highlight is the Pizza Portafoglio, or “Wallet Pizza” series, designed for convenient takeaway. This foldable pizza concept draws inspiration from traditional Neapolitan street food, allowing customers to enjoy their meal on the go without messy spills.
The Wallet Pizza lineup includes:
- Margherita – The classic favourite, now presented in a unique folded format that enhances portability
- Contadina – A new creation featuring rustic, farm-fresh ingredients
- Zingara – Generously topped with Parma ham, catering to meat lovers
Additionally, the Pizza Fritta (fried pizza) menu has expanded with new options like the Dondiego, a elongated fried dough filled with savoury ingredients. Early tastings suggest the texture is remarkably light, avoiding the greasiness often associated with fried foods.
Naples-Style Snacks and Traditional Pizzas
Beyond pizzas, the new menu introduces a range of Neapolitan snacks. The Melanzane in Carrozza—a layered eggplant dish—has garnered particular praise. “It completely redefines how you think about eggplant,” noted one reviewer. “The texture is surprisingly similar to fish, and the layers create a wonderfully rich mouthfeel.”
For purists, the traditional pizza section remains robust, featuring time-honoured recipes prepared with the same dedication to authenticity.
The Art of Eating Neapolitan Pizza
Pilo emphasises that proper enjoyment of Neapolitan pizza requires technique. Unlike its thicker counterparts, authentic Neapolitan pizza is incredibly soft, especially the centre, which measures just a few millimetres thick. The recommended method involves cutting the pizza into four slices and folding each piece in half—a practice that prevents toppings from falling and allows diners to fully appreciate the wheat flavour of the crust. Little Napoli’s takeaway boxes even include illustrated instructions to guide customers.
Practical Information
Little Napoli (Wan Chai)
Address: New Wan Chai location (specific address available upon reservation)
Opening hours: Daily for lunch and dinner
Price range: Traditional pizzas start from approximately HK$150; Wallet Pizza series from HK$120; snacks from HK$80
The Broader Impact
Little Napoli’s successful relocation underscores Hong Kong’s enduring appetite for authentic international cuisine. As the city’s dining scene continues to evolve, the return of this Michelin-recognised establishment signals resilience and adaptation. For food enthusiasts seeking a genuine taste of Naples without boarding a plane, this new chapter offers both familiar comforts and exciting discoveries.
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