Italy is renowned for its rich culinary heritage, where each region boasts unique flavors and traditional dishes. When it comes to experiencing the best of Italian dining, Naples and southern Italy stand out for their exceptional food, historical significance, and enchanting atmospheres. Here are our top dining picks in Italy that promise an unforgettable gastronomic journey.
Naples: Italy’s Capital City for Pizza
Pizzerias Sorbillo: The Heartbeat of Naples
In the ancient alleys of Naples, where history whispers through cobblestone streets, lies Pizzerias Sorbillo. Founded in 1935 by Luigi Sorbillo and Carolina Esposito, this pizzeria is the beating heart of Neapolitan pizza. Gino Sorbillo, their grandson, is the maestro who transforms tradition into art, creating pizzas that are both generous and accessible.
Gino’s journey is one of passion and innovation. His pizzas, crafted from organically grown flours and the finest local ingredients, are a symphony of flavors. The Casa della Pizza, his homage to the beloved dish, is a haven for pizza aficionados, fostering creativity and connection. Here, every bite is a celebration of Naples’ rich culinary heritage.
La Scialuppa: A Symphony by the Sea
Imagine dining to the gentle lullaby of the sea, with the majestic Castel dell’Ovo as your backdrop. At La Scialuppa, Sasà and Marianna curate a dining experience that is both intimate and grand. Each dish, a testament to Neapolitan tradition, is crafted with love and precision, using the freshest seasonal ingredients.
From the first bite of their seafood delights to the last taste of their heavenly desserts, La Scialuppa is a journey through the flavors of Campania. The dessert trolley, adorned with babà, pastiera, and caprese, is a sight to behold and a treat for the senses. Here, culinary artistry meets the enchanting embrace of the sea.
O’ Parrucchiano: A Garden of History and Flavor
Step into O’ Parrucchiano and be transported to a verdant oasis in the heart of Sorrento. Founded in 1868 by Antonino Ercolano, this restaurant is a living museum of hospitality. Its lush lemon groves and spacious rooms create a serene setting for savoring the Mediterranean’s finest.
O’ Parrucchiano is where the iconic cannelloni was born, originally named “strascinati.” Every dish here is steeped in history and flavor, making it a beloved destination for those seeking both tradition and taste. The ambiance, a blend of natural beauty and historical charm, makes every meal a celebration.
Tasso Restaurant: Modern Elegance Meets Culinary Excellence
In the vibrant streets of Sorrento, Tasso Restaurant stands as a beacon of modern elegance. Just steps from the main square, Tasso marries the soul of Mediterranean cuisine with contemporary design. The result is a dining experience that is both authentic and innovative.
With spaces that can host up to 400 guests, Tasso is perfect for any occasion, from romantic dinners to grand celebrations. Awarded as one of the “70 Best Restaurants with Pizzeria in the World” in 2018, Tasso’s commitment to quality is unwavering. Their wine list, a treasure trove of over 500 labels, ensures the perfect pairing for every dish. Here, culinary excellence meets heartfelt hospitality.
Fattoria Terranova: A Farmhouse Fairytale
High on the Sorrento hills, Fattoria Terranova invites you to a dining experience straight from a fairytale. Overlooking the bays of Naples and Salerno, this farmhouse restaurant is surrounded by lush olive groves, vineyards, and citrus orchards.
At Fattoria Terranova, the majority of what graces your table is cultivated on the farm’s six hectares of land. Breakfast and dinner are served in a rustic, yet chic setting, with floral compositions and panoramic views of the Galli islands. The farmhouse’s commitment to home-grown ingredients and traditional cuisine has earned it a place in esteemed food guides like Le Routard and Slow Food.
Start your day with homemade croissants, fresh fruit, and Sorrento Lemon marmalade. Enjoy a traditional dinner paired with local wines, followed by desserts like babà and pastiera, and a selection of homemade liqueurs. Fattoria Terranova is more than a restaurant; it’s an experience that lingers long after the meal is over.
La Tagliata: Dining in the Sky
Perched high above Positano, La Tagliata offers a dining experience like no other, spread across three terraces that blend seamlessly with the natural landscape. The restaurant’s organic vegetable gardens supply the kitchen with fresh produce, ensuring that every dish bursts with authentic flavors.
The first terrace, Punta Belvedere, welcomes guests with a panoramic view of Positano, the Galli islands, and Capri. The second terrace, L’Ulivella/Bougainville, provides a magical outdoor dining setting. The third terrace, A Cas e Luigg c’a fatic, offers both indoor and outdoor seating, with live music enhancing the enchanting ambiance.
La Tagliata prides itself on its charcoal-grilled meats, homegrown vegetables, and traditional Positano dishes. Guests can even participate in cooking classes to learn the secrets of Italian cuisine, making it an immersive culinary adventure.
Da Costantino Ristorante: A Family Tradition
Since 1978, Da Costantino Ristorante has been a staple on the Amalfi Coast, founded by Costantino Buonocore. This family-run restaurant is celebrated for its traditional recipes and warm hospitality. The dishes, crafted with passion and skill, have become classics in the region.
At Da Costantino, the focus is on authentic, home-style cooking. Whether you’re enjoying a pizza or a hearty Italian meal, the flavors reflect the rich culinary heritage of the Amalfi Coast, making every visit a delightful experience.
Italy’s culinary landscape is a mosaic of stories, each more enchanting than the last. These top dining picks invite you to savor the richness of tradition and the thrill of innovation. Let your palate be your guide on this exquisite journey through Absolute Italy. Buon appetito!
‘Relish the Art of Italian Cuisine, Where Every Dish Paints a Tale of Tradition’
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