As you may know, Italians don’t just eat to live—they live to eat. And nowhere is this zest for beautiful views and pleasures more evident than along the sun-kissed Amalfi Coast. Think fresh-caught lobsters, squids, fish, and other seafood drizzled with local olive oil to make the best seafood pasta you’ve ever tasted, lemons from the world-renowned lemon groves the size of baseballs transforming into the zestiest Limoncello you’ve ever tasted for wine pairing, and pizza, oh the pizza, fired in wood-burning ovens and oozing with buffalo mozzarella. And this is the typical standard in every restaurant here. What more for the best restaurants on the Amalfi Coast?
What is Amalfi Coast known for food?
For starters, here’s something about…
Spaghetti alla Nerano
A classic summertime dish from the little town of Nerano on the Amalfi Coast.
This zesty pasta dish is a must-try when visiting. It’s the perfect blend of zucchini, cheese (typically provolone del Monaco or caciocavallo), and basil tossed with al dente spaghetti.
One bite and you’ll be taken on a culinary journey through Italy’s famous seaside landscape.
The best part?
The dish is typically finished with a squeeze of lemon juice from the world-famous “Sfusato Amalfitano” lemons.
Frutti di Mare
“Frutti di Mare” literally translates to “fruits of the sea.”
It’s no secret that the Amalfi Coast is surrounded by some of the richest waters in the world, and boy, do they know how to make the most of it.
Picture a plate heaving with clams, mussels, prawns, octopus, and more, tossed in a garlic and local white wine sauce over homemade pasta.
Linguine con Filetti di Baccalà
A comforting pasta dish with salted cod.
The Baccalà, soaked to perfection, is cooked with tomatoes, olives, and capers and served over linguine.
This dish showcases how the locals cleverly balance the sea and earth flavors.
The saltiness of the fish, the tang of the tomatoes, and the brininess of the olives and capers create a dish that warms the heart and satisfies the soul.
Torta Caprese
Originating from the island of Capri, this decadent dessert will satisfy all chocolate lovers.
This cake is incredibly moist, rich, and made with finely ground almonds and dark chocolate.
What’s unique about this dessert is that it’s made without any flour, resulting in a dense and fudgy texture.
It’s often served with powdered sugar and a drizzle of Amalfi lemon syrup as if that wasn’t enough.
Pastries
From “Sfogliatella,” a crispy, shell-shaped pastry filled with a sweet ricotta filling, to “Struffoli,” delightful little balls of fried dough drenched in honey, and “Pastiera,” a tart made with cooked wheat, ricotta, eggs, and flavored with orange flower water.
Each one of these treats is like a little piece of sweet, heavenly bliss.
Amalfi Coast Lemons
The “Sfusato Amalfitano” lemons are not your average lemons.
They’re large, pear-shaped, and have a distinctive sweet-tart flavor, unlike any other lemon you’ve tasted.
These lemons are used in everything, from savory dishes and desserts to the famous limoncello liqueur.
They are an integral part of the cuisine in this region, adding a vibrant zing to everything they touch. The best restaurants on the Amalfi Coast will always have these on hand.
Seafood options
Amalfi Coast restaurants usually have many seafood options to pair with their excellent wine list.
Other notable dishes are shrimp ravioli with anchovy paste, sea bass tartare, seafood pasta, carpaccio, Impepata di Cozze (mussels in white wine sauce), and other fish dishes and fried seafood options.
Best places to eat on the Amalfi Coast (Amalfi, Sorrento, Positano, and more)
With the place positively drowning in tourists, there is high demand for great food in the Campania area. Here are the best restaurants on the Amalfi Coast where you can get more than live music, gelato, and the best Neapolitan pizza (invented in Naples) of your life. Our guide will include places that are part of most Michelin guides and family-run restaurants.
La Sponda – Le Sirenuse
La Sponda is a culinary gem in Positano’s luxurious Le Sirenuse hotel.
Holding a Michelin star, this restaurant sets the stage for an unforgettable fine dining experience.
Over 400 candles twinkle amidst the leaves of ivy-covered walls, casting an enchanting glow on the beautifully set tables.
The cuisine is Mediterranean, the flavors vibrant, and the dishes enchantingly delicious.
But it’s not just about the food but the entire sensory experience.
The soft flicker of candles, the soothing hum of live mandolin music, and the tantalizing aroma of Italian herbs culminate into a dining extravaganza.
You can almost taste the love and dedication that goes into each dish.
The enchanting atmosphere truly makes La Sponda a not-to-miss spot in Positano.
Website: sirenuse.it
Address: Via Cristoforo Colombo, 30, 84017 Positano SA, Italy
Zass – Il San Pietro
Perched on the cliffs of Positano overlooking the coast with breathtaking sea views, Zass at Il San Pietro is a Michelin-starred restaurant that combines gastronomy and romance in equal parts.
Zass epitomizes Positano’s charm: sun-drenched terraces, an awe-inspiring sea vista, and the sophisticated simplicity of Italian cuisine.
The chef here is a culinary magician who conjures up timeless dishes that remain faithful to the traditions while giving them a chic twist.
Every ingredient here tells a story – of the sea, fertile lands, and southern Italy.
And every dish is like a love letter to those who appreciate good food.
The wines from Amalfi are just as impressive, offering excellent pairing choices. Don’t forget to explore: they offer a tasting menu with multiple courses and some of the Amalfi region’s best food.
Website: ilsanpietro.com
Address: Via Laurito, 2, 84017 Positano SA, Italy
La Caravella – Ristorante Albergo
Tucked away in the heart of Amalfi, La Caravella is an exceptional Michelin-starred restaurant that’s been winning hearts since its establishment, offering the best views that will take your breath away.
The restaurant showcases the best of traditional Italian and regional dishes, particularly excelling in seafood.
The ambiance is warm and welcoming, reflecting the charming personality of the restaurant on the Amalfi coast.
The menu here is a testament to the bounty of the sea and the richness of Italian flavors.
Regarding the dining experience, La Caravella seamlessly blends fine-dining sophistication with homely comforts.
If you’re a fan of authenticity and quality, make sure La Caravella is on your must-visit list.
Website: ristorantelacaravella.it
Address: Via Matteo Camera, 12, 84011 Amalfi SA, Italy
Rossellinis – Palazzo Avino
Situated atop a cliff in Ravello, Rossellinis at Palazzo Avino is not just a Michelin-starred restaurant; it’s an experience that will surely be etched in your memories.
The view from this fine-dining venue is worth the visit – you get to dine with the azure sea and scenic coast as your backdrop.
You’ll find that the menu has a selection of elegant dishes that marry local flavors with contemporary techniques.
The freshness of the ingredients, the creativity in the plating, the finesse in the execution – every aspect of Rossellinis screams perfection.
Whether it’s the food, the service, or the mesmerizing view, Rossellinis knows how to make every moment count.
Website: palazzoavino.it
Address: Via S. Giovanni del Toro, 28, 84010 Ravello SA, Italy
Lido Azzurro Ristorante
Lido Azzurro, located in Amalfi, is one of the best restaurants that lets you savor fresh seafood dishes while enjoying a spectacular view of the coast and harbor.
The laid-back atmosphere here offers a welcome change from the city’s hustle and bustle.
Lido Azzurro’s menu celebrates the sea’s bounty, with each dish promising a delightful culinary journey.
The restaurant’s strong commitment to quality and flavor is evident in every dish from the kitchen.
Whether planning a romantic dinner or a laid-back lunch, Lido Azzurro should be on your list.
Website: ristorantelidoazzurro.it
Address: Lungomare dei Cavalieri, 5, 84011 Amalfi SA, Italy
Terrazza Bosquet – Excelsior Vittoria
Perched and part of Sorrento’s Marina Grande Strip, Terrazza Bosquet has a Michelin-star and one of Amalfi Coast’s best restaurants that will leave you speechless with its beauty and taste.
The restaurant, part of the grand Excelsior Vittoria Hotel, offers a panoramic view of the Gulf of Naples, providing a fantastic backdrop for your meal.
The menu here is a finely curated selection of Mediterranean and regional dishes, each one as delicious as the other.
Fresh, seasonal ingredients, a fusion of traditional and modern techniques, and a pinch of creativity are the secret recipe behind the culinary delights at Terrazza Bosquet.
Website: terrazzabosquet.exvitt.it
Address: Piazza Tasso, 34, 80067 Sorrento NA, Italy
Villa Maria Ravello
Situated in the picturesque town of Ravello, Villa Maria is a restaurant that gives farm-to-table a whole new meaning.
Not only does this restaurant offer panoramic views of the stunning coastline, but it also serves organic dishes made from ingredients harvested from its own farm.
The cuisine at Villa Maria is authentic, fresh, and intensely flavorful.
The farm’s fresh produce and the chef’s expertise result in wholesome, delicious, and visually stunning dishes.
Website: villamaria.it
Address: Via Santa Chiara, 2, 84010 Ravello SA, Italy
Trattoria Da Gemma
If you’re roaming the picturesque streets of Amalfi, Trattoria Da Gemma is a gastronomic sanctuary you cannot miss.
The charming restaurant offers a delightful blend of seafood dishes and traditional Italian cuisine, singing notes of authenticity and passion with every bite.
Try their hearty Pasta alla Genovese or dive into the fresh local catch of the day.
Website: trattoriadagemma.com
Address: Via Fra’ Gerardo Sasso, 11, 84011 Amalfi SA, Italy
Da Adolfo
Nestled in the heart of Positano, Da Adolfo is a must-visit destination for beach lovers and foodies alike.
It’s a place where the beach’s relaxed vibe meets the sea’s explosive flavors.
Whether basking in the sun, enjoying a relaxing swim, or soaking in the laid-back atmosphere, Da Adolfo offers you the perfect seaside experience.
The food menu here is about the sea, with mouth-watering fresh seafood stealing the show.
Website: daadolfo.com
Address: Via Laurito, 40, 84017 Positano SA, Italy
Ristorante Marina Grande
Imagine dining where the soft lullaby of the sea meets the seductive aroma of freshly cooked seafood.
Located on the beach in Amalfi, Marina Grande serves a wide array of seafood dishes that capture the essence of the sea.
The gorgeous view, coupled with the divine flavors of the food, makes Marina Grande a dream come true for every food lover.
It’s the perfect place for a romantic dinner or a cozy family meal.
Website: ristorantemarinagrande.com
Address: Viale della Regione, 4, 84011 Amalfi SA, Italy
Lo Guarracino
Perched on the cliffs of Positano, Lo Guarracino gives you a slice of paradise with every visit.
Here you can enjoy beautiful sea views while savoring various dishes ranging from fresh fish to classic pizza and pasta.
The welcoming atmosphere, combined with the stunning view, offers an extraordinary dining experience.
Their Margherita pizza and Linguine allo Scoglio are a must-try.
This is one spot you’d want to return to time and again.
Website: loguarracinopositano.it
Address: Via Positanesi d’America, 12, 84017 Positano SA, Italy
La Tagliata
La Tagliata is different from your typical restaurant, with a menu to peruse.
Instead, the family-run the concept of “cucina della nonna” (grandmother’s kitchen) and treats each guest to a generous assortment of homemade dishes crafted with love and care.
You’ll be greeted with warm smiles and a sense of belonging from the moment you arrive.
This place is a haven for meat lovers, offering diverse meat dishes.
Be it their succulent steaks or hearty traditional Italian dishes, the flavors at La Tagliata are bound to mesmerize your palate.
If you’re looking for a dining experience that feeds your soul and your belly, La Tagliata is your place.
Website: latagliata.com
Address: Via Tagliata, 32B, 84017 Positano SA, Italy
Ristorante Il Capitano
Perched high on the cliffs of Positano, Ristorante Il Capitano offers delicious seafood and an eye-feasting view of the coast.
The beautiful panorama of the turquoise sea is the perfect backdrop to a meal that is as visually appealing as it is delightful to the taste buds.
It’s the ideal spot for a romantic dinner or a chilled-out lunch with friends.
With a lovely ambiance and a menu loaded with seafood goodness, Il Capitano is an excellent choice for those who want to enjoy fine Italian dining in a relaxed setting.
Website: hotelmontemare.it
Address: Viale Pasitea, 119, 84017 Positano SA, Italy
La Tonnarella
Situated in Conca dei Marini, La Tonnarella offers traditional Italian dishes that will make your mouth water in anticipation.
With its idyllic setting and panoramic views of the sea, the restaurant is one of the best on the Amalfi Coast and is the perfect place to escape from bustling city life and enjoy a quiet meal.
The menu offers a wide variety of dishes, all prepared with fresh, local ingredients.
Whether it’s their signature Spaghetti alle Cozze (spaghetti with mussels) or the refreshing Insalata Caprese (Caprese salad), every dish here celebrates traditional Italian flavors.
Website: latonnarella.com
Address: Via Capo 31, 80067 Sorrento (NA) – Italy
La Torre Saracena
With its panoramic views of the sparkling Mediterranean Sea and its enticing menu filled with regional dishes, you’ll be hard-pressed to find a more unique dining experience on the Amalfi Coast.
Each dish is a testament to the Mediterranean culinary tradition, using fresh, locally sourced ingredients to create vibrant, flavorful dishes that genuinely hit the spot.
The spectacular sea view offers the perfect backdrop for a leisurely lunch or a romantic dinner.
Enjoy your meal on the restaurant’s terrace, where the blue sea meets the sky, creating a serene ambiance.
Website: torresaracena.net
Address: Via Mauro Comite 33, 84011, Amalfi Italy
Da Vincenzo
There’s something irresistible about dining in Positano, and Da Vincenzo epitomizes this charm.
Serving traditional Italian dishes in a modern, stylish setting with incredible sea views is the epitome of coastal sophistication.
The restaurant’s philosophy is authentic and traditional, reflected in the hearty, delectable dishes created using recipes passed down through generations.
Da Vincenzo strikes the perfect balance between comfort and sophistication, making it an ideal place to unwind while immersing yourself in the vibrant Positano dining scene.
Whether you’re grabbing a quick lunch before exploring the town or planning a romantic evening under the stars, Da Vincenzo guarantees an exceptional dining experience.
Website: davincenzo.it
Address: Viale Pasitea, 172, 84017 Positano SA, Italy
Italian food keeps your taste alive
Not only does it keep us energized for our sightseeing marathons, but it’s also a window into a culture’s soul.
Each bite, each sip, every last crumb of a biscotti, all of it tells a story.
The love and passion that the Italians pour into their cuisine are nothing short of inspiring.
It makes you understand why Italians live to eat; to them, eating isn’t just about nourishment; it’s about celebration and life.