While you may be familiar with many of Naples’ Italian mainstays, I wanted to highlight a few under-the-radar spots that keep locals coming back for more but didn’t make the top five list. Casa Cotzelli, tucked away in Island Walk, is a haven for Northern Italian flavors. Known for its hand-rolled pastas and attention to detail, the gnocchi with truffle cream and butternut squash ravioli are must-orders. The dining room is intimate, making it perfect for a quiet night where the food takes the stage.

Further north, Trattoria Abruzzo delivers hearty southern Italian dishes with a family-run touch. Their lasagna, veal parmigiana, and seafood pasta are consistently praised, and the early-bird specials make it an easy choice for both flavor and value. The owners frequently check in with diners, ensuring each meal meets their exacting standards.

Both Casa Cotzelli and Trattoria Abruzzo are reminders that there is much more than the downtown Italian dining scene, and that there are still hidden gems to be found. For those willing to step outside their usual routines, the rewards come in generous portions of house-made lasagna, fresh pasta, and rich sauces.

Casa Cotzelli

6175 Towncenter Circle, Naples

Website
Hours:
• Wednesday–Sunday: 11:30 AM – 9:00 PM (closed Monday & Tuesday)

Trattoria Abruzzo

2359 Vanderbilt Beach Rd, Unit 416, Naples

Website

Hours:
• Lunch (Thursday–Saturday): ~11 AM – 2:30 PM
• Dinner (Daily): ~3 PM – 10 PM

Originally published in
The Naples Florida Review.
Read the full edition here.