Discovering the Amalfi Coast Through Food and Drink

Imagine hiking through picturesque trails, the Mediterranean breeze in your hair, and the mouthwatering aroma of Italian cuisine wafting through the air. Welcome to the Amalfi Coast! Nestled in Southern Italy, this coastal paradise is a haven for food lovers, travel enthusiasts, and adventure seekers. Our very own PR Manager, Eve, recently explored the Amalfi Coast and is here to share her unforgettable food experiences and recommendations.

Culinary Delights of the Amalfi Coast - Local Dishes, Ingredients, and Recommendations 

Savour the Local Flavours

 The Amalfi Coast is renowned for its culinary delights, steeped in tradition and bursting with fresh, local ingredients. One dish you absolutely must try is the "Spaghetti alle Vongole." This simple yet divine pasta dish features clams, garlic, olive oil, and a hint of chilli, creating a symphony of flavours that dance on your palate. 

Another local favourite is "Scialatielli ai Frutti di Mare," a homemade pasta dish laden with an array of seafood like mussels, prawns, and squid. The pasta's unique texture pairs perfectly with the rich, tomato-based sauce and fresh herbs. 

Must-Visit Spots for Food and Drink on the Amalfi Coast 

Amalfi 

Gerry’s Pub: Nestled away from the bustling tourist spots, Gerry’s Pub offers great food at reasonable prices. With his granddaughter giving a helping hand and Gerry himself playing the piano in the evening, it's a true family affair that adds a cosy, personal touch to your dining experience.  A must-try is the ice-cold lemonade, made from the juiciest Amalfi lemons you can imagine.

Bar Della Valle: Simple yet delightful, this lunch spot is perfect for a quick bite that won’t break the bank. The food is straightforward but crafted with an undeniable Italian flair, featuring delicious pasta dishes, fresh salads, and mouthwatering sandwiches. 

Ristorante L’Abside: This family-run restaurant collaborates to create a relaxed yet elevated atmosphere where guests can go on a sensory journey through local flavours. If you’re willing to splurge a little, this is the place to go. Eve couldn’t stop talking about the seafood platter, which she claims is the best she’s had on the coast and was worth every euro. 

Piazza Duomo: For a more casual experience, grab some Limoncello and chocolate gelato while people-watching in the square. It’s an ideal way to soak in the local culture. After arriving in Amalfi and with the prospect and excitement of the adventure ahead, Eve said this was a special #MacsMoment and a core memory for her. 

Ravello

Lunch in the Garden Ravello: Whether you're looking to dine with a view or indulge in top-tier Italian cuisine, this spot delivers. Eve suggests going right when it opens at 12:30 PM to snag a table without a reservation. The fish of the day is a must-try, and the panoramic views will leave you amazed.

Praiano 

Il Pirata: This seafront gem is built into a cave and was so good that Eve ate there twice! From the impeccable service to the stunning views, it depicts the Amalfi Coast at its finest. They served olives, crackers, and chutneys as welcome antipasti, and the steak and cocktails are highly recommended. They showed such kindness to Eve and her hiking buddy by letting them order food two hours before they officially opened, as they were so hungry after the long walk.  

Positano

Ohina: Positano is known for being pricey, and Ohina is no exception. However, the delicious food and lovely setting more than make up for it. Plus, they generously provided Eve and her buddy with some extra free entrées as a kind gesture, making their dining experience even more enjoyable. 

Hotel California: Dining at this hotel offers not just great food but also a picturesque setting. Eve enjoyed a lovely meal and found it to be a perfect spot to unwind after a day of exploration.

Capri 

Bar Jovi: Located away from the crowded areas, Bar Jovi offers a peaceful retreat with amazing views. Whether you’re grabbing a sandwich or just a cold refreshment, this spot is the perfect way to relax after a visit to Villa Jovi. Eve found the food reasonably priced and absolutely delicious, making it a great budget-friendly option on the island.

Gluten-free Options Along the Amalfi Coast

For adventurers with a gluten intolerance or allergy, the good news is that plenty of gluten-free eateries are waiting for you in Capri, Amalfi, Positano and Ravello. Italians are fully aware of coeliac disease and well-versed in catering safely for you. 

To aid your gluten-free experience, look for restaurants with an AIC accreditation. This is the Italian Coeliac Society raising awareness of coeliac disease while ensuring you don’t miss out on delicious Italian treats. Download the AIC app to help pinpoint the best gluten-free restaurants.

Amalfi Coast, all the Ingredients for a Delicious Adventure 

The Amalfi Coast is a treasure trove of culinary delights waiting to be discovered. From hidden gems like Gerry’s Pub to upscale dining experiences at Ristorante L’Abside, there’s something for every food lover. The combination of fresh ingredients, traditional recipes, and stunning settings makes it a must-visit for any adventure seeker. 

From tipping etiquette and understanding menus to tricks to getting the most out of your Italian culinary experience, head to our blog to find out more about Navigating the Italian Food Scene. 

Discover what else the Amalfi Coast has to offer in our Things to do on the Amalfi Coast article. 

Check out our Guide to Walking the Amalfi Coast and Guide to Walking in Italy for more advice and inspiration on self-guided walking in Italy. 

Head to our Travelling To and Around Italy article and our Italy Top Tips blog post for helpful advice to prepare you for your Italian adventure. 

And for more foodie tips, check out our Navigating the Italian Food Scene blog.

Amalfi Coast Walking Holidays

Now that you’ve got a taste of the Amalfi Coast’s culinary offerings, why not plan your own food-filled adventure? Book a call with our travel experts. Make sure to join our Macs Adventure Facebook Community, too, where over 15,000 like-minded adventurers share stories, provide recommendations and support each other.