Cicol' E Ricott'

Discovering Cicol' E Ricott'

Tucked away on Via Maddaloni in Naples' historic Rione Sanità neighborhood, Cicol' E Ricott' stands as a testament to the city's enduring love for fried pizza. This compact bistro, cheese shop, cold cut store, and deli specializes in the iconic 'pizza fritta completa,' a golden pocket of dough filled with cicoli—succulent, crunchy pork fat rendered from local tradition—and velvety ricotta cheese. The aroma of frying dough and melting cheese wafts through the narrow streets, drawing locals and savvy visitors alike to this unpretentious gem.

The Art of Fried Pizza

At its core, Cicol' E Ricott' celebrates Naples' street food heritage. The pizza fritta here is prepared with precision: fresh dough is stretched thin, sealed around generous scoops of cicoli and ricotta, then plunged into hot oil until crisp outside and molten within. This dish traces its roots to post-war Naples, when resourceful families fried pizza to save on fuel. Today, it pairs perfectly with the shop's selection of regional cheeses like buffalo mozzarella and pecorino, alongside platters of cured meats such as prosciutto and salami sourced from Campania artisans.

Menu Highlights and Daily Rhythm

Open daily from early morning, the spot transitions seamlessly from breakfast croquettes to lunch bites and evening snacks. Beyond fried pizza, expect hearty panini stuffed with mortadella, simple insalate capresi, and cheese boards showcasing Campania's dairy bounty. Prices remain wallet-friendly, reflecting the no-frills ethos of neighborhood delis. The interior is cozy and functional, with a few stools for quick eats amid shelves of local products.

Rione Sanità Context

Located in one of Naples' most authentic quarters, Cicol' E Ricott' sits amid baroque churches, underground catacombs, and lively markets. This area pulses with working-class energy, where food is sustenance and celebration. Pair your visit with a stroll through the district's artisan workshops or the nearby Fontanelle ossuary for a full immersion in Neapolitan life.

Practicalities for Visitors

Arrive hungry and cash-ready, as this is a true local haunt. Sundays offer limited hours till early afternoon, ideal for a post-church treat. Whether grabbing a fritta to go or savoring on-site, Cicol' E Ricott' delivers pure, unadulterated Naples in every crispy bite.