Here’s an insightful look at the highly anticipated Milwaukee’s Top 25 Restaurants as curated by the discerning palate of dining critic Rachel Bernhard.
In a much-awaited return, the Journal Sentinel proudly unveils Milwaukee’s Top 25 Restaurants for the first time in five years, now featuring evaluations from the new and talented dining critic Rachel Bernhard.
In an exciting recognition, downtown Madison’s beloved restaurant Naples 15 has been highlighted by Tripadvisor as one of the 25 Hidden Gems in its prestigious 2024 Travelers’ Choice Awards Best of the Best Restaurants list.
Located at 15 N. Butler St., Naples 15 specializes in crafting authentic wood-fired pizzas, house-made pastas, and an array of classic Italian dishes that transport diners straight to Italy.
Helmed by the passionate Salvatore Di Scala, Naples 15 is celebrated for its ability to “bring a slice of Naples to you with its welcoming vibe and rich flavors,” according to Tripadvisor. “The pizza here is a standout — perfectly baked with high-quality ingredients. Try the seafood pasta, paired with a selection from their impressive wine list. The staff’s genuine hospitality and knowledge make the experience even better,” the review enthuses.
Notably, Naples 15 proudly stands as one of just five Wisconsin restaurants recognized by the Associazione Verace Pizza Napoletana, a prestigious designation that confirms its commitment to crafting “true Neapolitan pizza.”
The restaurant operates with convenient hours, open from Monday through Thursday from 5 p.m. to 10 p.m., and extending their hours on Fridays and Saturdays until 11 p.m. It’s important to note that they remain closed on Sundays.
How Madison’s Naples 15 was chosen as a Tripadvisor Hidden Gem
The Travelers’ Choice Best of the Best is Tripadvisor’s highest honor, signifying exceptional quality and reputation within the dining community. The Hidden Gems list showcases restaurants that are deemed “off the beaten path,” yet are celebrated for their outstanding reviews in “taste and local charm.”
This coveted award is bestowed upon restaurants, destinations, hotels, and activities that garner a “high volume of above and beyond reviews” from the Tripadvisor community over a span of 12 months. Remarkably, less than 1% of all contenders receive this prestigious honor, highlighting Naples 15’s distinctive quality, according to Tripadvisor’s website.
On Tripadvisor, Naples 15 boasts an impressive rating of 4.5 out of 5, supported by a remarkable total of 1,600 reviews.
**Interview with Dining Critic Rachel Bernhard on Milwaukee’s Top 25 Restaurants**
**Editor:** Welcome, Rachel! It’s great to have you here as we discuss the highly anticipated unveiling of Milwaukee’s Top 25 Restaurants. Can you tell us a bit about what inspired you as you put this list together?
**Rachel Bernhard:** Thank you for having me! It was quite an exhilarating experience to curate this list after five years. My inspiration came from a desire to showcase the diversity and creativity of Milwaukee’s food scene. I aimed to highlight not just the established favorites but also up-and-coming spots that are making waves among locals and visitors alike.
**Editor:** That’s fascinating! Speaking of hidden gems, one restaurant that caught the spotlight is Naples 15 in Madison, recognized by Tripadvisor as one of the 25 Hidden Gems. What do you find unique about Naples 15?
**Rachel Bernhard:** Naples 15 is an exceptional representation of authentic Italian cuisine. What sets it apart is the remarkable attention to detail in every dish, from their wood-fired pizzas to their house-made pastas. The ambiance is also incredibly inviting, making it a perfect spot for both casual diners and special occasions. Salvatore Di Scala has done an amazing job of creating an experience that truly captures the essence of Naples.
**Editor:** You mentioned the importance of representation in your selection. How did you balance the variety of cuisines and dining experiences when curating your list?
**Rachel Bernhard:** Balancing variety was crucial for me. Milwaukee has such a rich culinary landscape, and I wanted to reflect that. I considered different types of cuisine, dining styles—from fine dining to comforting casual spots. It was important to include restaurants that cater to different tastes, while also highlighting those that use high-quality and locally sourced ingredients.
**Editor:** What do you hope patrons take away from reading about Milwaukee’s Top 25 Restaurants?
**Rachel Bernhard:** I hope readers feel inspired to explore the local dining scene. There’s something incredibly special about supporting local establishments and discovering the creativity and passion of the chefs behind them. My goal was to encourage people to venture to places they may not have considered before and savor the rich flavors our city has to offer.
**Editor:** Thank you, Rachel! Your insights are invaluable, and we can’t wait to see the community’s reactions to this new list!
**Rachel Bernhard:** Thank you! I’m excited to share these hidden gems with everyone, and I hope it sparks some delicious adventures for all!