The Ultimate Guide to Culinary Adventures in Cinque Terre 

Cinque Terre is a sensory dream come true. Nestled along the rugged Italian Riviera, this cluster of five enchanting villages—Monterosso al Mare, Vernazza, Corniglia, Manarola, and Riomaggiore—attracts tourists like moths to a flame. And for good reason. The beauty, culture, history, and yes, the food, make Cinque Terre a must-visit destination.  

Italy is renowned for its culinary prowess, but the flavors that Garrett, our Adventure Sales Specialist, encountered during his trip here raised the gastronomic experience to another level. He’s not one to gatekeep, so here are his top recommendations for the best restaurants in Cinque Terre. 

Cucù, Camogli 

Camogli may not be one of the five main villages, but it is the starting point on our Walking Portofino and Cinque Terre hiking trip. This family-run spot with basic decor lets the food do the talking. Garrett and his travel buddy were treated to a mouthwatering introduction to traditional Italian pasta featuring a local twist on lasagna that was simply delicious. Every bite was savored, setting the tone for a culinary adventure across the Ligurian coast. 

Sâ, Camogli 

Housing only eight tables, Sâ is an intimate dining experience with just one server and a chef. Garrett ordered trofie pasta, a regional classic, and the fish of the day, which, despite its untranslatable name, was incredible. The ambiance, paired with delightful service and a glass of wine, made for a memorable evening. For dessert, the tiramisu piped into a glass and garnished with chocolate crumble and whipped cream was the perfect end to a fantastic day. 

Ristorante Giorgio, San Fruttuoso 

Ristorante Giorgio offers an unforgettable lunch experience that's about more than just the food. The mussels and trofie pasta were tasty, but it was the views that truly stole the show. Built into the rocks and nestled neatly as though nature intended it, the restaurant's tables sit right on the water's edge. The waves gently splashing your feet create an enchanting setting, perfect for a leisurely lunch. 

A Curnea Dispenseria Gastronomica, Bonassola 

After a series of challenging climbs and peaceful forest walks, they reached Bonassola for lunch. They enjoyed thin and crispy pizza at A Curnea Dispenseria Gastronomica, housed in an apricot-colored building with green window shutters. The classic color combination echoed the charm of the area, making the meal even more enjoyable. 

Emy's Way, Monterosso 

Near their hotel in Monterosso, Garrett and his friend discovered a lovely lemon grove. They decided to open a bottle of wine left over from their meal at Sâ in Camogli and ordered a takeaway pizza from Emy's Way, which offered a discount for the hotel's guests. Surrounded by lemon trees overlooking the ocean, this moment perfectly encapsulated a ‘#MacsMoment’ for them. 

Il Pirata delle Cinque Terre, Vernazza   

Il Pirata delle Cinque Terre is a delightful find for fresh seafood lovers! Nestled in the heart of Vernazza, this charming eatery offers a friendly atmosphere, and a menu filled with local delicacies. Make sure to try their grilled swordfish paired with a zesty lemon sauce - it’s simply divine! Don't forget to enjoy their homemade desserts, which are the perfect sweet finish to your meal.

Trattoria Dal Billy, Manarola   

In Manarola, Trattoria Dal Billy stands out with stunning views of the coastline and an inviting ambiance. This restaurant is known for its exquisite seafood pasta—especially the spaghetti alle vongole, which bursts with flavor and freshness straight from the sea. The warm, welcoming staff will make you feel right at home, turning your meal into a delightful experience that you won’t forget!

Ristorante La Dolce Vita, Riomaggiore   

Ristorante La Dolce Vita in Riomaggiore offers an incredible Italian dining experience with a modern twist. The menu features an array of mouthwatering options, but their signature seafood risotto should not be missed! Pair your meal with a glass of local Cinque Terre wine for a truly magical evening. The atmosphere is lively and vibrant, making it a fantastic spot to gather with friends and celebrate the beautiful surroundings. 

KMO, Corniglia 

Reaching Corniglia involved taking a train followed by climbing 30 flights of stairs. The effort was rewarded with stunning views of surrounding hills and the sea. Corniglia's quiet charm offered a great place for pastries and exploration. They stopped at KMO, an eclectic café with a plant-filled patio overlooking farm fields. It was a mini-oasis where they enjoyed delicious coffee and relaxed. 

Antica Osteria del Carugio, Portovenere 

Antica Osteria del Carugio in Portovenere served Garrett's favorite meal of the entire trip. The small, rustic restaurant with exposed brick welcomes walk-ins. Their seafood pasta was incredibly moreish and reasonably priced. They also ordered Farinata—a chickpea pancake—a local dish. The walnut variety was the standout. To finish, they indulged in more tiramisu, which was unbeatable.

Why Cinque Terre is a Foodie's Paradise 

Cinque Terre is more than just its stunning landscapes - it's a haven for food lovers. The region's unique geography and climate contribute to its rich culinary traditions. From fresh seafood to locally sourced produce, the flavors of Cinque Terre are as diverse as its landscapes.

Tips for Dining in Cinque Terre 

• Reservation Etiquette: Many of the best restaurants in Cinque Terre are small and fill up quickly. Make reservations whenever possible to ensure you get a table. 
• Local Specialties: Don't miss out on regional dishes like trofie pasta with pesto, Farinata, and seafood risotto. 
• Seasonal Varieties: The menu can change with the seasons. Be open to trying what's fresh and in season. 

For more Italian dining etiquette tips, check out our Italy Travel tips blog and head to our navigating the Italian food scene guide for ways to enhance your Italian dining experience.

The Role of Wine in Your Culinary Journey 

No meal in Cinque Terre is complete without a glass of local wine. The region is famous for its white wines, particularly the crisp and refreshing Vermentino. Enjoying a glass with your meal enhances the flavors and completes the dining experience.

Sustainability and Ethical Dining 

Many restaurants in Cinque Terre are committed to sustainability. They source ingredients locally and practice eco-friendly methods. By supporting these establishments, you're not only enjoying a fantastic meal but also contributing to the sustainability of the region.

Final Thoughts on Dining in Cinque Terre 

Cinque Terre offers an unparalleled culinary experience that extends beyond the plate. The combination of stunning landscapes, rich culture, and delectable food makes it a must-visit destination for any foodie. Whether you're savoring a meal with waves splashing at your feet or enjoying a quiet coffee overlooking farm fields, each dining experience in Cinque Terre is unique and memorable.

Ready to Plan Your Trip? 

If Garrett's adventure has inspired you, why not start planning your own culinary journey through Cinque Terre? Whether you're a seasoned traveler or a first-time visitor, there's always something new to discover and savor in this beautiful part of Italy. 

Safe to say, Garrett's legs and palate were taken on one epic Italian adventure, and now it's your turn. Buon viaggio and buon appetite! 

To discover more about our Cinque Terre trips, check out our Guide to Cinque Terre. And for Italy hiking and biking trips, head to our Guide to Hiking in Italy for tips, advice and inspiration.