Nestled in Nashville, Tennessee, Bella Napoli Pizzeria is more than just a restaurant — it’s a slice of Italy transported to the bustling streets of Music City. Marco Sedda, Executive Chef and co-owner, brings Italian culinary tradition to life serving authentic Neapolitan pizza.
Marco’s love for cooking began as a child, inspired by his mother. Growing up in the kitchen, he learned the magic of Italian cuisine from her, often being shooed away from the hot stove only to return with even greater curiosity. His determination led him to study at the Aurelio Saffi Culinary Institute of Florence, where he honed his craft and began his journey as a chef.
He resided at several top restaurants across Italy before moving to the United States. He worked alongside renowned chefs in New York City before spearheading the opening of Giovanni, a fine dining restaurant in midtown Nashville. Marco spent years in Australia learning about food influences from various Asiatic countries and developed a career in Food & Beverage Management in Southern California for almost a decade. He has gained experience working within various operations from family owned restaurants to corporate settings.
Pizza, for Marco, is more than food — it’s a cultural staple. He fondly recalls his travels to Sardinia, where he tasted one of the most memorable pizzas of his life fresh from a wood-fired oven with rich tomatoes. These memories fuel his commitment to delivering quality pizza to the community.
At Bella Napoli, authenticity starts with the ingredients from DOP San Marzano tomatoes to imported Italian flour, extra virgin olive oil, and carefully selected toppings. Marco sources 90% of the restaurant’s food items from Italy saying, “People don’t realize it but the authenticity in Italian food is the ingredients.”
If you’re looking for an authentic taste of Naples without leaving Nashville, Bella Napoli is the place to be. Whether it’s the crackle of a perfectly baked crust, the vibrant aroma of fresh ingredients, or the welcoming smile of Marco and his team, every visit feels like a trip to Italy.
Watch the interview on Instagram.