Ah the aroma of Naples in Lyon. That’s the promise of Le Napolitain. Right here on Rue Franklin this unassuming pizzeria holds a rich history.
Le Napolitain isn’t just any pizzeria. It’s a Lyon institution. A family legacy spanning generations. It began in the 1950s. A great-uncle from Sicily opened its doors. He was among the first to introduce pizza to France. His ambition was to share Italian cuisine with the French. His pioneering spirit set the stage for Le Napolitain’s enduring success.
The original recipes remain unchanged. That’s a testament to their dedication to authenticity. The Morreale brothers Nicolo and Franco now run Le Napolitain. They proudly continue the family tradition. Their two children even study at the prestigious Institut Bocuse. One focuses on management. The other on culinary arts. They seem to be preparing to take up the mantle in the future. Their nephews have even opened another restaurant La Scala Sicilienne in Lyon’s 3rd arrondissement. This is more than a restaurant. It’s a family affair. The Morreale wives are involved too. They are all Italian. They embody the strong family ties and loyalty found in both Sicilian and old Lyonnaise families. This shared sense of family contributes to Le Napolitain’s warm and welcoming atmosphere.
Le Napolitain’s walls are adorned with photos. These are not just random pictures. They showcase a unique connection to the world of sports and entertainment. It began in 1991 when Pete Sampras a tennis champion frequented the pizzeria. The Morreales took a picture with him. This started a tradition. Other sports stars mainly from Olympique Lyonnais and journalists followed suit. Even renowned comedians like Alain Chabat and Alexandre Astier have graced their walls. The brothers made a conscious decision to exclude any politicians.
There’s another quirky detail. License plates from across America are displayed. These plates are not chosen randomly. They are a memento of their uncle’s restaurant in the US. Each one tells a unique story of a customer’s journey. It highlights the global reach of Le Napolitain’s reputation. It underscores their dedication to sharing their family recipes. This tradition continues with every customer. They bring back plates as souvenirs from their American adventures. It’s an ongoing narrative of connections. These connections highlight a family’s journey. The journey has taken them from Sicily to France and across the Atlantic.
Le Napolitain is more than just a place to eat pizza. It’s a living tapestry of family history. It’s a testament to the enduring power of tradition. It’s a testament to the power of simple delicious food. It’s a must-visit destination in Lyon. It offers a genuine taste of Italy in the heart of France. So come in and experience Le Napolitain for yourself.