Matto Napoletano
OVERVIEW
An acclaimed bohemian-district pizzeria ranked among Europe's best for its authentic Neapolitan pies.
It is Officially One of the Best Pizzerias in Europe
Matto Napoletano is not just good for Skopje—it is world-class. It has been recognized by 50 Top Pizza, the highly prestigious guide that is considered the Michelin Guide of the pizza world. In 2023, it was ranked #16 in Europe (excluding Italy). In 2024, it maintained its elite status, ranking #25 in Europe. It also won the One to Watch award in 2022, signaling its rapid rise to fame.
Strict Adherence to Neapolitan Standards (AVPN)
The restaurant takes the Napoletano in its name very seriously. They follow the strict guidelines of the Associazione Verace Pizza Napoletana (True Neapolitan Pizza Association). This means:
- The dough is fermented for at least 24 to 48 hours, resulting in a crust that is incredibly light, airy, and easy to digest (you won't feel bloated after eating a whole pizza).
- The pizza is cooked in a traditional wood-fired oven at temperatures exceeding 450°C (840°F) for only 60 to 90 seconds.
Ingredients Imported Directly from Campania
To maintain absolute authenticity, almost all of their key ingredients are imported directly from the Campania region of Italy. They use:
- San Marzano D.O.P. tomatoes grown in the volcanic soil near Mount Vesuvius.
- Fior di Latte and Mozzarella di Bufala Campana (buffalo mozzarella).
- High-quality Caputo flour, the gold standard for Neapolitan pizza.
Located in Skopje's Most Bohemian Neighborhood
The pizzeria is situated in Debar Maalo, Skopje’s most famous neighborhood for food and nightlife. Known for its leafy streets, old houses, and relaxed Kapistec vibe, Debar Maalo is the perfect setting for Matto’s cozy, rustic-meets-modern aesthetic. The outdoor seating area in the warmer months is one of the most coveted spots in the city.
The Canotto Style Crust
If you eat at Matto, you will notice the crust is exceptionally puffy, almost like a lifebuoy (which is what canotto means in Italian). This modern Neapolitan style features a highly hydrated dough and a pronounced, caramelized, leopard-spotted crust that is crispy on the outside and pillowy soft on the inside.
Excellent Italian-Macedonian Fusion Vibe
While the food is strictly Italian, the hospitality is famously Macedonian. The staff is known for being incredibly warm and knowledgeable, often guiding guests through wine pairings that feature both top-tier Italian wines and excellent local Macedonian varieties (like Vranec).
You Almost Always Need a Reservation
Because of its international fame and local popularity, Matto Napoletano is almost always packed. If you plan to visit on a weekend or even a weekday evening, making a reservation a few days in advance is highly recommended.
WHAT'S ON MENU
- breakfast
- brunch
- lunch
- dinner
- coffee
- dessert
- cocktails
- beer
- wine
- vegetarian
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