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The traditional Dishes on Capri

Where to Eat on Capri
The traditional Dishes on Capri

Ravioli capresi, limoncello, mozzarella e pomodoro... a stay on Capri is a journey of discovery through one of the richest cuisines in the Mediterranean, where history, culture, and nature combine together to form the foundation of an array of local specialties on the plate and in the glass!

The best Capri's restaurants

The Cuisine on Capri

Up until just recently, it wasn't a simple task to travel between Capri and the mainland, so centuries (if not millenia!) of isolation has meant that local dishes are founded on ingredients grown or fished on the island: tomatoes, herbs, eggplant, lemons, and fresh fish and seafood.

Traditional Dishes on Capri

All of Capri's restaurants offer menus based on traditional dishes, often served with an updated twist. Even with these creative interpretations, however, the recipes are inspired by local cuisine and there are no ethnic restaurants on the island.

Traditional Dishes to Seek Out on Capri

  • Ravioli Capresi: fresh pasta filled with caciotta cheese and marjoram, tossed in a simple tomato sauce

  • Insalata Caprese: a tomato and mozzarella salad, topped with olive oil and basil

  • Spaghetti alla Chiummenzana: pasta dressed with tomato sauce, garlic, red pepper, and oregano

  • Torta Monacone: a savory pie filled with ground beef, caciotta cheese, eggs, ham, tomatoes, and seasonal vegetables.

  • Torta Caprese: a chocolate and almond cake

  • Limoncello: lemon liqueur, a sweet way to end your meal

Helpful Tips for Dining on Capri

Hours: Lunch is served from noon to 3pm, and dinner from 7pm to 11pm. Some restaurants only serve dinner, while others are open all day long.

Season: Most restaurants open for the season the week before Easter and close for the winter at the beginning of November. There are always a few restaurants open during the winter, however.

Prices: For a three course dinner at a restaurant on Capri you can expect to spend around ¤50 a person. More economical options are a pizzeria or casual trattoria, the most informal category of eatery on the island. All restaurants must have their menu and prices displayed outside, so you can take a look before entering. Here are some suggestions for inexpensive restaurants on Capri.

Reservations: Reservations are required for dinner in high season (June to September).

Vegetarians and Vegans: There are no vegetarian or vegan restaurants on Capri, but vegetarians should have no problem finding a selection of dishes as the local cuisine is primarily vegetarian. Vegans should also be able to find a number of choices of pasta tossed with vegetables.

Celiacs: All the restaurants on the island feature meat and fish entrees on their menus, and some also offer special gluten-free selections.