Did you know popular foods like pizza and lasagna were first invented in Naples, Italy? If you think you had delicious Italian food before, just wait until you try it in Italy. It’s the real deal! Your taste buds will thank you!
Italy is also home to world-renowned restaurants. All the fine dining experiences we had in Amalfi Coast were Michelin-starred, which means they were judged and examined to the highest standards of chefs from all over the globe. This is a pretty big deal in the culinary world. Here are some of our highlights:
1. La Sponda
La Sponda, with one michelin star, is located in one of the most luxurious hotels in Positano called Le Sirenuse. This place is known for its transformation at night, where the staff takes 3 hours to light 400 candles to set the tone for a romantic atmosphere. We tried making dinner reservations two weeks before traveling, but were unsuccessful.
July is peak season, which means the best restaurants were booked months in advance. However, we were able to have lunch there and took beautiful pictures during the day. The menu was filled with mouth-watering contemporary selections and the service was prompt. I particularly enjoyed the fresh smoothies after a long day of walking in the beating sun.
The balcony of the Sirenuse Hotel
yummy smoothies
400 candles are lit throughout the dining room at La Sponda
2. La Serra
La Serra has one michelin star and is located in the Le-Agavi hotel in Positano. The restaurant arranged for a driver to come pick us up and drop us back to our hotel after dinner- for free! I know, fancy right? When we arrived, the driver rang the bell at the entrance and waited for the open-sesame effect. We really appreciated the exclusivity, which made us feel luxurious. The receptionist gave a warm welcome and escorted us to our table outside with a panoramic view overlooking the Tyrrhenian Sea.
As we watched the glorious sunset, we were served 6-courses of Italian delicacies, which were thoroughly explained and presented with excellence. Each bite burst with flavors of traditional Italian cuisine with a Mediterranean flare. The service was superb and we were well taken care of. My favorite course was desert and the appetizers!
Display of appetizers Frozen Desert
Lobby of Le-Agavi Hotel
3. Il Flauto di Pan
Alas, Il Flauto di Pan, which also has one michelin star. This was the only restaurant that required our credit card when making the reservation in advance. We expected this place to be top notch and were not disappointed!
The restaurant is nestled in Hotel Villa Cimbrone in Ravello, Italy. After attending a musical concert nearby, we decided to walk over, with assistance from our driver who guided us over the phone. After walking in what felt like endless circles, we finally arrived at the large wooden doors that were likened unto a castle entrance. We buzzed the bell and stated our names. Again, that open sesame effect and exclusivity aspect! We were greeted by a waiter and escorted to our seats overlooking the beautiful city.
The hospitality was a bit short, but maybe because it was after 10pm and the staff probably wanted to go home. Nevertheless, the food was scrumptious and we really enjoyed the Moscato that was served towards the end.
After dinner at Il Flauto di Pan
Overall Opinion
- Surprisingly, we found that our money went a long way when fine dining in Italy, rather than in the States.
- Even though Amalfi Coast is known to be expensive, our bills came out to be generally the same. Plus we had better service, authentic cuisine and top-notch ambiances with unreal views of the Amalfi Coast.
- Our favorite choice would be La Serra because of the whole experience-succulent food, free private driver and stunning views.
- We definitely recommend these restaurants, but would advise booking at least two months in advance, especially La Sponda! Hopefully you get to have dinner there and can tell us all about it!
What was your favorite food when visiting Italy? Let us know in the comments below. Happy Fine Dining!
