Ten years ago, the heart of downtown Wilmette gained more than just a restaurant. It gained a gathering place. When Napolita Pizzeria & Wine Bar opened its doors in 2015, it brought with it the centuries-old tradition of Neapolitan pizza making, paired with a love of community, hospitality, and the joy of sharing a meal. This Fall, as Napolita celebrates its 10th anniversary, it stands as a North Shore institution, beloved by locals and visitors alike.
The warm, inviting dining room at Napolita Pizzeria & Wine Bar in Wilmette, where neighbors, families and friends have gathered for a decade of memorable meals. | Photography credit by Vandalay Brands.
Authenticity has been at the core of Napolita since day one. Using a true wood-fired oven built in Naples, the restaurant set out to honor the artistry of pizza napoletana, from its perfectly blistered crust to its carefully sourced ingredients. That commitment was recognized early on when Napolita earned the prestigious Vera Pizza Napoletana (VPN) certification, an international designation awarded by the Associazione Verace Pizza Napoletana in Naples, Italy.
Only a select number of pizzerias outside of Italy carry this certification, which ensures every pie adheres to the strictest traditional standards: hand-kneaded dough, San Marzano tomatoes, fresh mozzarella di bufala, and baking at 900 degrees in a wood-fired oven. For diners, this means that every pizza served at Napolita is not just authentic, it’s the real taste of Naples.
“The Napolita concept was inspired by Italian family traditions, where cooking and gathering around the table was a way of life,” said Nick Hynes, CEO and co-founder of Vandalay Brands. “From the beginning, our goal has been to bring that same authenticity and warmth to the North Shore. Opening our Northbrook location in 2023 marked an exciting new chapter, and as we celebrate ten years in Wilmette, we look forward to the next decade of growth and continuing to share those traditions with more communities.”
Beyond its menu, Napolita has always been about people. Families have celebrated milestones here, friends have lingered over bottles of Barolo, and out-of-towners have discovered a slice of Naples right in downtown Wilmette. The pizzeria’s welcoming energy and attentive service have created a space where regulars are treated like family and first-time guests quickly feel at home.
A toast to tradition and innovation at Napolita, where an extensive Italian wine list meets a menu of creative cocktails, perfectly paired with wood-fired pizza and handmade pastas. | Photography credit by Vandalay Brands.
The past 10 years have seen countless anniversaries, graduations, and neighborhood gatherings unfold within Napolita’s cozy walls and on its lively patio. Even through the challenges of the restaurant industry, Napolita has grown stronger, expanding its reputation while never losing its neighborhood charm. As the team looks toward the future, their focus remains on quality, community, and creating experiences worth remembering.
This milestone is both a celebration and a promise. Napolita Pizzeria & Wine Bar remains committed to delivering exceptional pizza, an elevated yet comfortable dining experience, and the warmth that has defined it for a decade. For Wilmette and the wider North Shore, Napolita is not just a restaurant. It’s a tradition that will continue to thrive for years to come.
Contact Information:
Napolita Pizzeria & Wine Bar
1126 Central Ave, Wilmette, IL 60091
napolitapizza.com
(224) 215-0305
Dining and Cooking