Owner Stefano Maffei put on a “traditional Neapolitan-style event with music and noise”.
Maffei was in Naples 33 years ago when they won their second league title, led by Diego Maradona.
When asked how much he wished he was there now, he didn’t hide his keenness.
“On a scale of one to ten? Two hundred,” he admitted.
The pizzaioli at Noi are also from Naples, so those at the event were treated to authentic pizza.
“We speak in Neapolitan,” said Maffei in reference to his staff.
“I feel like I’m really home.”
Maffei believes passion is what separates the people of Naples from others.
“No one feels for their own team like the Neapolitan people,” he explained.
“We’re passionate about our land, culture, cuisine and art.
“We are really attached to the city.
“You can leave Napoli, but it can’t leave you.
“It’s always in your heart.”
Those at the event were treated to an SSC Napoli cake
After the Serie A title this year, does Maffei have European dreams?
“100 per cent,” he declared.
“This year we were not lucky with Milan, but I don’t think it’s only luck.
“Milan was able to stop the game that we were supposed to play, so chapeau to them.”
Maffei said he’s proud of the fact that he opened his restaurant during covid and succeeded despite the obvious challenges it presented.
Noi Pizzeria in full swing to celebrate Napoli's scudetto
He also expressed his gratitude to the locals of his adopted home.
“I want to thank all the people in Melbourne for the great support that they showed us over the last three years,” he said.
