IL FIGLIO DI EMILIANO

In the heart of Sabadell lies a true island of Naples — the Italian pizzeria “Il Figlio di Emiliano”. This is more than just a restaurant; it is the result of a grand dream by head pizzaiolo Eric Ayala, who decided to bring the authentic flavors of Southern Italy to the Catalonia region. The establishment quickly won the hearts of foodies thanks to its commitment to tradition and the highest quality ingredients.

Il Figlio di Emiliano. Иллюстрация. Источник: Kupi.com AI

The restaurant's main pride is its Neapolitan pizza, with its characteristic airy crust and delicate toppings. In Spain, this place is famous for its dough, prepared according to ancient recipes, and an atmosphere permeated with Italian hospitality. The interior with Neapolitan accents complements the gastronomic experience, making a visit here a little journey to the foot of Mount Vesuvius.

Despite opening relatively recently, “Il Figlio di Emiliano” has already climbed high in the rankings and become a destination for those who value sincerity and craftsmanship in cooking. Its popularity is so great that long queues formed at the opening, and the founder's personal story has given the restaurant a special emotional charm.

For those planning a visit, here is the essential contact information for the restaurant. You can browse the menu on the website in advance or plan your route using a navigator.

The main reason to visit “Il Figlio di Emiliano” is to taste classic Neapolitan pizza. Guests particularly recommend trying the 'Preferita di Mamma' for lovers of spicy flavors or the hearty 'Ripieno' calzone. To complement your meal, order a glass of white wine from the Vesuvius region — it perfectly highlights the taste of local Italian products.

Don't forget to save room for dessert, which has attained cult status here. The pistachio tiramisu and delicate semifreddo with hazelnut have earned rave reviews and are considered must-orders. Interestingly, the restaurant intentionally does not serve coffee, so guests can fully enjoy the dessert's aftertaste and continue their evening with a stroll through the city's cozy streets.

Beyond the food, you can soak up the energy of the young and passionate team. If you are lucky, you will see Eric Ayala himself, who personally oversees the quality of every pizza coming out of the oven. The cozy dining room with its Neapolitan flair is perfect for long conversations, creating an ideal setting for a romantic dinner or a gathering with close friends.

“Il Figlio di Emiliano” is located at Carrer Mare de Déu de les Neus, 6, in the central part of the city. If you are traveling from Barcelona, the most convenient way is to take the FGC trains (lines S1 or S2) to Sabadell Centre station. The trip takes about 20–30 minutes, followed by a pleasant 10–15 minute walk through the city streets to the restaurant's doors.

For those who prefer to drive, the route follows the AP-7 or C-58 highways. Keep in mind that the restaurant is in a busy area, so it is better to look for parking in paid lots in the city center. You can also always use a taxi from the station or any point in Sabadell to arrive comfortably right at the entrance.

The story of this place began in 2023, but the path to its creation took much longer. Eric Ayala, a Sabadell local, traveled to Naples to master the ancient art of the pizzaiolo. The restaurant became the embodiment of his dream and a tribute to his family: the name “Il Figlio di Emiliano” translates as “The Son of Emiliano”, which is a promise Eric made to his father.

The opening of the pizzeria was a major event for the city. Before the doors opened to the first guests, a documentary film about Eric's life, his training in Italy, and the support from his mother Jenny and sister Ingrid was screened at the local Imperial cinema. This personal and touching story instantly caught the public's attention, surrounding the restaurant with an aura of sincerity and passion for the craft.

Thanks to Eric's social media activity and the impeccable quality of the food, the establishment quickly outgrew its status as a simple neighborhood pizzeria. Today, it is considered one of the most significant gastronomic projects in the region, attracting lovers of authentic Italian cuisine from all over Spain.

For a full visit to “Il Figlio di Emiliano”, it is recommended to set aside about 1–2 hours. This is plenty of time to leisurely enjoy a freshly baked pizza and a signature dessert in good company.

However, it is worth considering the establishment's high popularity. During peak hours and on weekends, queues can form at the entrance, so allowing a little extra time for a table will make your visit more relaxed and predictable.

The restaurant welcomes guests daily, offering both lunch and dinner hours. From Monday to Friday, the establishment operates with a break: from 1:00 PM to 5:00 PM and from 7:00 PM to 11:00 PM.

On weekends — Saturday and Sunday — “Il Figlio di Emiliano” is open to visitors without a break in the schedule, from 1:00 PM to 12:00 AM, making it an excellent choice for a late dinner at the end of the week.

After a hearty Italian lunch, a stroll through the surroundings would be very fitting. The restaurant is located in the heart of the historical center, where modern shops stand alongside industrial architectural monuments and cozy squares.

Exploring the central streets of Sabadell will allow you to better feel the atmosphere of this Catalan city and see its iconic spots within walking distance.