L’Antiquario

L'Antiquario is the cocktail bar most often named when people talk about drinking well in Naples. It was founded by Alexander Frezza, one of the best-known bartenders in Italy, and it has featured in The World's 50 Best Bars, ranking 44th in one edition, and in Europe's 50 Best Bars, where it was placed 28th in 2026. Despite the recognition it remains discreet, behind an unmarked door on a short street a couple of blocks from the sea.

Inside, the mood is that of a 1920s jazz bar or an old gentlemen's club, with red velvet, floral wallpaper and dark wood. Live music plays on weeknights, adding to the atmosphere. The style is classic and refined, with a list built on Italian classics with clever twists, many of them themed on the city.

Signature drinks have included the Cristo Velato, named after the sculpture in Cappella Sansevero, a stirred mix of bourbon, vermouth, cherry liqueur and absinthe; Un Grande Limone, a four-citrus drink combining gin, citron water, citron liqueur, lemon and limoncello; and a milk-washed Banana Split of vanilla vodka, strawberry, banana and cocoa. A trio of negronis is served on a custom silver tower. The list changes, so ask the bartenders for a recommendation based on what you like.

This is a bar for a relaxed, unhurried drink rather than a party. Prices are those of a top cocktail bar, higher than at the neighbourhood bars of the old town but fair for the quality. Seating is limited, so booking through the website is advisable, particularly on Friday and Saturday nights, and dressing smartly suits the setting. Opening hours are posted on the website and Instagram.

It suits couples, cocktail enthusiasts and anyone looking for an elegant start or end to an evening, and it is a natural follow-on to dinner in Chiaia or on the seafront. Via Vannella Gaetani is a few minutes' walk from Piazza dei Martiri and Via Partenope, and Castel dell'Ovo and the Lungomare are close by. Piazza del Plebiscito is about ten minutes away on foot. Taxis are the easiest way back to other parts of the city late at night.