Along the Amalfi Coast in Campania, Italy lies one of the most intoxicatingly beautiful towns in the world, Positano. Positano has been a beach resort town since the Roman Empire and thousands of people escape to Positano for a lovely vacation. Perched up on the hill is a natural pyramid made from rock formations, colorful buildings, and houses. A trip to Positano would surely embrace the warmth of the town along with its stunning sea views, beautiful high-fashion, and of course, the delicious cuisine.
Best Positano Restaurants
What is Positano known for?
It is no secret that Positano is known for its mozzafiato (Italian for breathtaking) views, tiny roads, boutique shops, and restaurants. If I were to pinpoint along with one thing that Positano is known for, hands down that would be the picturesque view of the Mediterranean Sea. The sparkling view that Positano offers is unlike anything you have ever seen. One of the most unique ways to capture the Positano energy and soul is to have a sunset dinner along the coastline. Trust me, the view will instantly be memorable, romantic, and splendid.
Is Positano expensive?
I won’t lie to you and tell you that Positano is a cheap or economical place to visit because it is not. Any tourist who visits Positano should know that prices in Positano run on the expensive side. From restaurants to boutique shops to hotels, you are going to spend quite a bit of $$$. Although your wallet might diminish in size, a lovely vacation in Positano will leave you with lasting memories and happiness that not all vacations can guarantee you.
What food is Positano known for?
Thanks to Positano’s location, the best food you can eat is seafood! Being a coastal town, there is no way Positano could be known for any other food than seafood. One of the most traditional and classic dishes served in Positano is scialatelli (ribbon-shaped long pasta) served with fresh basil, tomatoes, mussels, garlic and drizzled with extra virgin olive oil.
Best Restaurants in Positano
1. Chez Black
When it comes to dining, one of the pearls of Positano is the Chez Black Restaurant. Chez Black has been entertaining and dining locals and tourists since 1949. Over the years events such as weddings, parties, and anniversaries have been held at Chez Black. Plus, this fun and enchanting restaurant has been a favorite among Italian celebrities such as Simona Ventura, Christian De Sica, and Valeria Marini. I recommend eating the Chez Black specialty dishes such as Spaghetti con Ricci di Mare (which are sea urchins) and Zuppa di Pesce locale (Local fish soup with redfish, squid, octopus, mussels, and clams.
2. Ristorante Valle dei Mulini
If you want to try dishes from a more reasonably priced restaurant, then you should eat at Ristorante Valle dei Mulini in Viale Pasitea. This restaurant offers Italian, Mediterranean, Vegetarian, and Vegan menu options. All lunch and dinner meals are served on colorful ceramic plates made right in Positano. The staff and chef are cordial and attentive to each customer and make sure that their meals are perfetto! I recommend ordering dishes like Antipasto with prosciutto, mozzarella and melon, the Caprese, Eggplant Parmesan and Polipo con fagiolini (octopus with green beans)
3. Li Galli
One of the best and Michelin-rated restaurants in Positano is Li Galli, located in Hotel Villa Franca. This restaurant combines the excellence of the local ingredients, the experience of the Chef, and celebrates the fresh seafood. What makes each dish is coupled up with great service and a gorgeous panoramic view of Positano. A few of the Chef’s specialty dishes include Risotto with scampi and lemon, Calamari and potatoes, and the dessert Tiramisu.
4. Ristorante Valle dei Mulini
If you want to try dishes from a more reasonably priced restaurant, then you should eat at Ristorante Valle dei Mulini in Viale Pasitea. This restaurant offers Italian, Mediterranean, Vegetarian, and Vegan menu options. All lunch and dinner meals are served on colorful ceramic plates made right in Positano. The staff and chef are cordial and attentive to each customer and make sure that their meals are perfetto! I recommend ordering dishes like Antipasto with prosciutto, mozzarella and melon, the Caprese, Eggplant Parmesan and Polipo con fagiolini (octopus with green beans)
5. Il Grottino Azzurro
A cozy and quaint restaurant located on Via Guglielmo Marconi is Il Grottino Azzurro. As soon as you walk up to this restaurant you notice the white and light blue sign, the cool lamp, and the light blue décor. Guests are sure to enjoy the Neapolitan and Southern Italian cuisine that certainly includes seafood. The simplicity of each dish makes them mouthwateringly delicious. Meals are served such as Gnocchi alla Sorrentina, Paccheri with fish and broccoli, and a bowl of mussels.
6. Collina Bakery
One of the best restaurants in Positano that does not have you breaking the bank is Collina Bakery. This bakery is located in Via Cristoforo Colombo and opens between 7:15 am- 12 am. Cozy outdoor seating is available and you can enjoy any meal from breakfast-dinner! This small Positano bakery packs a big punch when it comes to its flavors and dishes. Collina Bakery is within walking distance of the beach and the Santa Maria Assunta Church. Whether you stop in for breakfast, brunch, or a snack you must try one of the following: Spaghetti with seafood, Pizza Baba with cream, Lemon sorbet, Gelati, and any of their dolci (sweets).
7. Ristorante da Vincenzo
This family-owned restaurant has been in business since 1958. The chefs at Ristorante da Vincenza have exquisite attention to detail, creativity and their love for food translates into the best meals! Currently, this restaurant accepts reservations via email or phone but also tries to accommodate last-minute walk-ins. They are also closed on Tuesdays for lunch. The restaurant offers dishes such as stuffed pumpkin, Ravioli with eggplant, and spaghetti with shrimp. Aside from eating a lovely meal, you can purchase handmade tableware, unique tablecloths, and cutting boards in their gorgeous shop called da Vincenzo Shop.
Where should I eat lunch in Positano?
1. Buca di Bacco
This restaurant was founded over a century ago (in 1916), along with the hotel where it is located. This hotel/restaurant was a fan-favorite among the first set of celebrities during the early 20th century. This is one of the best spots in Positano to have a snack or aperitivo. You can order a soothing glass of Pinot Grigio or Buca di Bacco white wine as you nibble on a shrimp cocktail, arancini, or fried potato balls.
2. Casa e Bottega
Like many of the restaurants on this list, Casa e Bottega is located in Via Pasitea. This restaurant is open between 9 am- 5 pm, which makes it the perfect place to eat lunch. This charming restaurant is original, well decorated, and lovely. It offers fresh ingredients, typical local dishes and has a great staff. The menu at Casa e Bottega offers appetizers, fresh and raw fish, first courses, second course, salads, and dessert. In my opinion, the dishes I think are to die for are Toast with Avocado and Salmon, Buffalo mozzarella, Tuna Carpaccio, Seared prawns with mashed potatoes, and homemade gelato!
As you read through this list, there is probably a place or two (or all of them) that has piqued your interest. All of the restaurants on this list offer great food, an amazing atmosphere, and a lovely experience. Now, it is up to you to choose where to eat! Buon Appetito!
ishika
Wednesday 2nd of June 2021
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Cacinda Maloney
Wednesday 2nd of June 2021
Thank you Ishika!