There are so many superb pizzerias in Italy’s sprawling Campania region, which includes Naples, Capri, Pompeii and the Amalfi Coast, that you’d have to make it your life’s mission to try them all.

So when the word “best” showed up in several online reviews for Pizzeria da Massimo in the Naples’ suburb of Pozzuoli, I was curious and skeptical. Which pizzerias were they comparing it against? How many places had they tried?

Located in Pozzuoli’s busy restaurant quarter, Massimo is casual, no-frills and inexpensive. Mild temperatures and a brisk sea breeze made the streetside patio inviting.

Except for appetizers and a few salads, the menu is all pizzas. One section has classic pizzas such as Margherita, marinara, multi-cheese and some with assorted toppings. Their prices range from 3 euros ($3.35) to 7 euros ($7.85).

A creative offering is the Peter Pan, topped with white cheese, mozzarella, french fries, olive oil and Vienna sausage for 5 euros.

The special pizzas are more elaborate and cost 7 to 9 euros. For example, Vesuvio is two-layered with fresh ricotta, buffalo mozzarella, salami, ham, pepper and mushrooms, priced at 8 euros.

I ordered a Champignons for 5 euros. It has buffalo mozzarella, mushrooms, cheese, olive oil and basil.

The mozzarella was light and almost melted in my mouth. The thin, Neapolitan-style crust was coated in seasoned olive oil that made it moist and flavorful. The paste, made from locally grown tomatoes, had the light, pungent taste you’ll only find in this region.

And it was hefty.

Was it the best pizza I’ve ever had in Italy? I’d rate it high, but would have to try out at least 50 more pizzerias before I use superlatives.

Massimo gets points for its friendly servers. A waiter gave me a free after-dinner limoncello shot. So all things considered, Massimo is among the best pizzerias you’ll find for the money.

wyland.scott@stripes.com Twitter: @wylandstripes

Location: Via Montenuovo Licola Patria 5, Pozzuoli 80078

Hours: 11:30 a.m.-3 p.m. and 6:30 p.m.-11:30 p.m. Tuesday through Saturday; 6:30 p.m.-11:30 p.m. Sunday and Monday

Dress: Casual

Parking: Streetside and parking garage nearby

Phone: +39 081 524 3262

Online: facebook.com/pg/pizzeriadamassimopozzuoli/menu/?ref=page_internal