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 

Savor the Local Flavors  

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 chili, creating a symphony of flavors that dance on your palate. 

Another local favorite 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. 

Delight in Fresh Ingredients 

The Amalfi Coast's fertile land and temperate climate produce a bounty of fresh ingredients that are the backbone of its cuisine. Lemons the size of grapefruits are used to make the region's famous Limoncello, while juicy tomatoes, fragrant basil, and locally produced olive oil elevate even the simplest dishes.

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 cozy, 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 flavors. 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 ice cream 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 that 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’s a depiction of the Amalfi Coast at its finest. They served olives, crackers and chutneys as welcome antipasti and the steak and cocktails come 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 hike.  

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 the lovely meals 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.

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 Hiking the Amalfi Coast and Guide to Hiking in Italy for more advice and inspiration on self-guided hiking in Italy. 

Head to our Traveling to and Around Italy article and our Italy Top Tips blog post for helpful advice to get you prepared for your Italian adventure. 

And for more foodie tips, check out our Navigating the Italian food scene blog. 

Now that you’ve got a taste of the Amalfi Coast’s culinary offerings, why not plan your own food-filled adventure? Make sure to join our Macs Adventure Facebook Community where over 14,000 like-minded adventurers share stories, provide recommendations and support each other.