Rugged cliffs, sun-kissed lemon groves and sparkling turquoise waters — the Amalfi Coast is undeniably beautiful. But while its dramatic coastline captures hearts, it’s the flavors of the region that leave the most lasting impression. From hand-stretched mozzarella to seafood fresh from the Tyrrhenian Sea, the best foods on the Amalfi Coast are deeply rooted in local traditions and bursting with coastal character.
If you’re planning a trip and wondering what to eat on the Amalfi Coast, these 12 dishes offer the perfect culinary introduction to Italy’s most romantic shoreline.
1. Scialatielli ai Frutti di Mare
This house-made pasta, native to Amalfi, is thicker and shorter than spaghetti and often served with a medley of seafood like clams, mussels, shrimp and squid. Tossed in garlic, parsley, olive oil and white wine, scialatielli ai frutti di mare is one of the best foods on the Amalfi Coast if you're craving something fresh from the sea.
2. Mozzarella di Bufala
A staple of Campania — the region that includes Amalfi — mozzarella di bufala is soft, creamy and made from water buffalo milk. Whether it’s sliced on a Caprese salad or served simply with tomatoes and basil, it’s a must-try for cheese lovers.
3. Delizia al Limone
A true taste of the Amalfi Coast, delizia al limone is a lemon sponge cake filled and covered with silky lemon cream. Light, zesty and perfectly sweet, it captures the essence of Sorrento’s famous citrus groves in every bite.
4. Alici di Cetara (Anchovies From Cetara)
Don’t let their humble reputation fool you — anchovies from the fishing village of Cetara are a delicacy. Served raw with lemon, preserved in oil or fermented into a pungent fish sauce called colatura di alici, these little fish pack serious umami flavor and are prized throughout southern Italy.
5. Totani e Patate
A rustic dish with deep coastal roots, totani e patate features tender local squid stewed with potatoes, garlic and tomatoes. It’s comforting, savory and often made in Amalfi homes using recipes passed down for generations.
6. Limoncello
You can't visit the Amalfi Coast without sipping limoncello, the region’s iconic lemon liqueur. Made from Sorrento lemons, sugar, alcohol and zest, this bright yellow digestif is traditionally served ice cold in a small glass after meals — and often comes homemade.
7. Caprese Salad
Fresh, simple and vibrant, the Insalata Caprese is named after the island of Capri, but loved all over the Amalfi Coast. With fresh mozzarella, ripe tomatoes, basil, olive oil and salt, it’s the ultimate warm-weather starter — especially with a drizzle of local extra-virgin olive oil.
8. Spaghetti alle Vongole
This dish proves that simple is best. Spaghetti alle vongole — spaghetti with clams — features just a few ingredients: olive oil, garlic, white wine and fresh clams. It’s a staple along the coast, where seafood is caught fresh each morning.
9. Melanzane alla Parmigiana
Also known as eggplant parmigiana, this beloved dish layers fried eggplant slices with tomato sauce, basil and melted cheese. It’s baked until golden and bubbling — a rich, satisfying option that pairs beautifully with local red wine.
10. Frittura di Paranza
This seaside favorite features a mix of lightly fried small fish, shrimp and calamari, served hot and crispy with lemon wedges. Frittura di paranza is often enjoyed as street food or as a starter by the sea — salty, crunchy and perfect with a cold glass of Falanghina wine.
11. Torta Caprese
Chocolate lovers, take note. Torta Caprese is a flourless chocolate and almond cake originally from Capri. Moist, dense and often dusted with powdered sugar, it’s a gluten-free delight served in cafés throughout the Amalfi Coast.
12. Granita al Limone
When the summer sun gets intense, locals cool down with granita al limone — a semi-frozen treat made from Amalfi lemons, water and sugar. Tart and refreshing, it’s perfect for a midday pick-me-up or light dessert, often served with a spoon or in a brioche roll.
Culinary Excursions on the Amalfi Coast
To truly understand the food culture of this region, it helps to get closer to its roots — whether that’s in a lemon grove or a local trattoria. These two excursions blend cuisine, history and jaw-dropping views into unforgettable experiences:
- Taste of Sorrento & Pompeii
- Step into the heart of citrus country with a guided visit to a traditional lemon garden in Sorrento. You’ll learn about cultivation techniques and sample regional specialties like mozzarella, tomatoes, salami and crusty bread under the shade of lemon and olive trees. After exploring Sorrento’s artisan shops and vibrant food scene, continue to Pompeii for a fascinating tour of ancient ruins and Roman life. It’s a full-sensory day of flavor, history and discovery.
- Sorrento & Amalfi Drive
- This scenic drive hugs the cliffs of the Amalfi Coast, passing charming towns and panoramic sea views. Enjoy free time in the romantic towns of Sorrento and Amalfi, where local flavors shine — think limoncello, scialatielli and fresh seafood. A delicious Tuscan-style lunch is included. The journey ends with a motor launch ride along the coastline, where you'll delight in a different view of the culinary paradise you’ve just explored.
What Foods is the Amalfi Coast Famous For?
The best food on the Amalfi Coast is its sun-drenched lemons, handmade pasta and ultra-fresh seafood. Signature dishes like scialatielli ai frutti di mare, delizia al limone and mozzarella di bufala showcase the region’s love of bold, clean flavors made from just a few top-quality ingredients. Whether you’re relaxing in a cliffside café or wandering through a lemon-scented grove, the best foods on the Amalfi Coast celebrate the land, the sea and the joy of living simply — and deliciously.
Keep Exploring Amalfi Coast
Want to learn more about this gem? Check out these guides to plan your next trip:
- Amalfi Coast, Italy Shore Excursions - Uncover the best of Amalfi Coast with shore excursions that take you on unforgettable adventures.
- What is the Amalfi Coast Known For? - Learn more about the city's coastal scenery, cliffside towns, heritage and delicious local cuisine.
- When is the Best Time to Visit the Amalfi Coast? - Plan the best time for your perfect getaway.
- What to Buy When Shopping on the Amalfi Coast - Discover the best souvenirs, from bottles of locally produced limoncello to custom-made Positano sandals.
