A Decade of Flavor: Napolita Celebrates 10 Years in Wilmette

Ten years ago, Napolita Pizzeria & Wine Bar opened its doors in downtown Wilmette, Illinois with a simple but ambitious vision to bring authentic Neapolitan pizza and the spirit of Italian hospitality to the North Shore. What started as a neighborhood gathering spot has grown into a beloved community fixture, welcoming guests for family dinners, milestone celebrations and everyday moments shared around the table.

Authenticity at the Heart of Every Slice at Napolita

From the beginning, Napolita embraced the centuries-old traditions of Naples. The restaurant’s wood-fired oven was built using true Neapolitan techniques, and the team earned the prestigious Associazione Verace Pizza Napoletana certification honoring pizzerias that meet strict standards for authentic preparation.

The dough is hand-kneaded daily, topped with imported San Marzano tomatoes and fresh Mozzarella di Bufala, and baked at 900 degrees to achieve a soft and blistered crust. Each pizza that leaves the oven is a testament to tradition, craftsmanship and care.

A Gathering Place for the Community

As CEO and co-founder Nick Hynes shared with Modern Luxury Chicago North Shore, “Cooking and gathering around the table was a way of life for my family growing up. Our goal was to bring that same authenticity and warmth to the North Shore.”

Over the past decade, Napolita has become more than a restaurant. It is where guests have toasted to engagements, celebrated graduations, shared Sunday dinners and reconnected with friends. Through the changing restaurant landscape, its commitment to community and quality has never wavered.

Looking Ahead to the Next Ten Years

As Napolita celebrates this milestone, the promise remains the same. The team will continue to deliver exceptional pizza and handmade pastas, warm hospitality and a neighborhood dining experience unlike any other.

Here’s to the next decade of flavor, connection and community at Napolita Pizzeria & Wine Bar in Wilmette.