L’Antiquario

Nestled in Chiaia, at the heart of Naples’ antique quarter, L’Antiquario beckons with subtle intrigue and timeless elegance. Opened in 2015 by Alex Frezza and partners, this bar is a local pioneer in speakeasy culture. Behind a discreet wooden façade lies a world of art-deco charm—deep red velvet seating, dim lighting, ornate William Morris wallpaper, and dark wood accents create a romantic and intimate ambiance. Guests typically buzz the intercom to gain entry—this ritual not only preserves exclusivity but also sets the tone for an evening of refined indulgence. Cocktail aficionados here are in for a treat. The menu is artfully divided into classic, contemporary, and modern sections—each drink comes with its origins, bartender, and creation year. This transparency turns every sip into a journey through cocktail history. Signature creations include the theatrical “Negroni Carousel”—a rotating tasting of three Negroni variations with inventive flavor profiles like Umami (shifted with shiitake and tomato), Garden (peach and rose), and Sospeso (Neapolitan coffee). Another standout, Te nel Deserto, blends gin, Fernet Branca, mint tea, muscovado sugar, and lime, served in a Moroccan teapot for an immersive twist. L’Antiquario boasts an extensive library of over 600 spirits and a curated champagne list that changes with the seasons. While not food-focused, it complements its drinks with light fare—think tapas-style bites to sharpen the flavor journey. Coated in sophistication, steeped in cocktail history, and pulsating with creativity, L’Antiquario remains a beacon of hospitality. It’s more than a bar—it’s the kind of place where each detail—from the décor to the drinks—tells a story, and every guest becomes part of it.