Naples is famously known as the birthplace of pizza, and the city boasts pizzerias on nearly every corner. Among the many local variations is the pizza portafoglio, a folded pizza designed for eating on the go. This street-friendly style of pizza has deep roots in Neapolitan tradition, and Giovanni Kahn della Corte, a creative restaurant entrepreneur, has revived this tradition in a modern and mobile form.
The Origins of Pizza Portafoglio
In Naples, pizza was often eaten while standing or walking through the city’s bustling streets. The pizza would be folded into quarters after baking, making it easier to carry and eat, while also keeping it warm. This portable pizza earned the name portafoglio (which means “wallet”) because of how it folds into a small, manageable size. Giovanni has built his business, Johnny Take Uè, around this practical and historic approach to pizza.
Meeting Giovanni Kahn della Corte
I meet Giovanni at one of his outlets on Corso Vittorio Emanuele, where he explains how his business brings the pizza portafoglio to the streets in an innovative way. His Ape tricycles have been cleverly converted to house fireproof wood-burning ovens, allowing customers to enjoy traditional wood-fired pizza wherever they are.
As I watch the pizzaiolo expertly fold my margherita into quarters, I see how the concept of the pizza portafoglio makes for a convenient and satisfying meal.“The portafoglio, or libretto, is a lighter version of the margherita,” Giovanni explains. “But it can also be made with other fillings.” This concept of portable pizza has allowed Johnny Take Uè to expand beyond Naples, with outlets in London, Perugia, Milan, Bergamo, and more.
Where to Find Pizza Portafoglio in Naples
For those visiting Naples, here are a few must-try spots for the best pizza portafoglio:
Pizzeria Decumani – Via dei Tribunali 58, Napoli
Johnny Take Uè – C.so Vittorio Emanuele 84, Napoli
Antica Pizzeria Port’Alba – Via Port’Alba 18, Napoli
