Welcome to the picturesque Cinque Terre, a UNESCO-protected national park located in the stunning coastal region of northwest Italy. The five pastel fishing villages nestled into the cliffs offer a feast for the senses, from the sparkling shades of aquamarine, turquoise, and emerald to the flavorful seafood and traditional Ligurian fare found in the local restaurants.
As you wander through the winding streets, you’ll discover a plethora of dining options. However, to help you narrow down your choices, we’ve curated a list of the top five must-visit restaurants in Cinque Terre that are guaranteed to delight your taste buds and leave you craving for more.
Gastronomia San Martino, located in the charming town of Monterosso al Mare, is an excellent choice for seafood lovers. The swordfish and seafood pasta are some of the most popular dishes, while the lasagna and sea bass are cooked to perfection. Enjoy the fresh, locally-sourced ingredients, which create a delightful harmony of flavors.
Il Pirata delle Cinque Terre, located in the heart of Vernazza, is a seafood lover’s paradise. Their excellent pasta dishes are complemented by the sensational pesto, and the ravioli is the perfect way to experience the classic Ligurian cuisine. The cheese and tomato salad is also a must-try.
Pippo a Vernazza — Tradizione & Street Food, is located in the colorful and vibrant village of Vernazza. Enjoy their famous focaccia and delicious seafood dishes, and bask in the warm and welcoming atmosphere. The pesto and the focaccia are out of this world, and a visit to this restaurant is not to be missed.
Kepris Pizzeria, located in the enchanting town of Riomaggiore, is the perfect spot to savor some of the best pizzas and tiramisu. The fantastic pizza is complemented by the authentic and flavorful Mediterranean flavors, and the friendly service only adds to the charming ambiance of the place.
La Cantina del Pescatore, situated in the seaside village of Monterosso al Mare, offers an array of delightful dishes to satisfy your cravings. From the tuna salad and focaccia sandwich to the locally sourced wine Sassarini, you’ll be transported to a culinary paradise with every bite.
In the words of Lord Byron, «There is pleasure in the pathless woods, there is rapture in the lonely shore, there is society where none intrudes, by the deep sea, and music in its roar.» The Cinque Terre offers a glimpse of this kind of pleasure and rapture. It is a place that ignites the senses and leaves one spellbound. As you venture through this stunning coastal paradise, be sure to indulge in the culinary delights of the region. Whether it’s savoring fresh seafood, indulging in classic pasta dishes or enjoying a slice of authentic Italian pizza, the restaurants of Cinque Terre offer something for everyone. So, as you explore this captivating destination, remember the words of the Italian poet Eugenio Montale, «Cinque Terre is a wild and uninhabited region where the sea is the protagonist and the mountains merge with the rocks. It is a place where every step is a discovery, and every discovery is a poem.»
