Nestled along the stunning Amalfi Coast, Maiori is a charming destination that many dream of visiting during the summer. While it retains the quaint appeal of small coastal towns, it also offers enough amenities for a fantastic holiday experience. Unlike its well-known neighbors, Positano and Amalfi, Maiori remains a hidden gem, meaning you won’t be surrounded by overwhelming crowds. Thus, it stands out as a superb spot for a peaceful summer getaway or as a base to discover the beautiful Amalfi Coast.
Once a quaint fishing village, Maiori has transformed into a tourist-friendly town focused on ensuring a delightful stay for visitors. Here, you can find a plethora of restaurants, trattorias, and bistros offering a delightful range of culinary options. Naturally, the town’s culinary highlights feature seafood caught fresh daily from the Tyrrhenian Sea, complemented by classic Italian dishes such as pasta and pizza. In this restaurant guide, we’ll present you with some of the top dining spots in Maiori.
(This article highlights five restaurants in Maiori that we consider the best, based on our personal opinions. The order of presentation does not reflect the quality of these dining options. Each restaurant has its unique strengths and weaknesses, so we suggest you choose according to your personal tastes.)
Maiori Food Coast
Maiori Food Coast is a cozy family-run establishment located just a five-minute walk from the promenade. With only a few tables outside, entering this restaurant gives you an immediate sense of warmth and friendliness, far removed from the upscale, star-rated dining experiences.
Instead, you’ll be greeted by the enticing aromas of freshly prepared meals and a welcoming family atmosphere, always accompanied by friendly smiles eager to satisfy your palate. If you’re in search of a genuinely friendly spot that offers authentic Italian cuisine along with refreshing drinks, this quaint restaurant deserves a visit.
You will be served by a mother-son duo who utilize grandma’s traditional recipes. We recommend trying their homemade gnocchi with octopus, arancini, or flavorful meatballs. Be aware that all dishes are prepared fresh daily, meaning the menu can vary and is updated on a board instead of being printed.
Despite the exceptional quality of food at Maiori Food Coast, prices remain affordable compared to other establishments in Maiori. Typically, a dinner for two with drinks will cost between 30 to 40 euros, which is quite reasonable. Don’t forget to indulge in their refreshing lemon cream for dessert!
- Distance: 450 meters from Spiaggia di Maiori
- Phone: +39 327 758 7971
Casa Ferraiuolo
Casa Ferraiuolo is a delightful restaurant that transports you back in time. Walking in, you’ll find a narrow dining area adorned with wooden shelves and rustic decor, reminiscent of its past as a tailor shop. This charming eatery features a unique retro ambiance that cleverly blends a cocktail bar with traditional minimalist cuisine and an impressive wine selection.
The historical charm of Casa Ferraiuolo is just one reason to visit. The restaurant serves exactly what you would anticipate when searching for high-quality Italian cuisine. Although the menu is not extensive and the dishes may appear simple, each meal is crafted meticulously using fresh, locally sourced ingredients. We highly recommend trying their homemade pasta, which is both light and authentically Italian. Additionally, dishes such as cacio e pepe and bruschetta with artichokes are must-tries, and don’t leave without sampling their fantastic cocktails.
You’ll also find an excellent selection of local wines and house-made limoncello. The staff is incredibly friendly and welcoming, demonstrating a genuine passion for their craft, whether it be the culinary experience or the lively atmosphere. You may even be treated to a spontaneous bel canto performance from one of the staff during your visit. Be mindful that Casa Ferraiuolo is cozy but very popular, so reservations are recommended.
- Distance: 450 meters from Spiaggia di Maiori
- Phone: +39 089 994 8444
O Barao
O Barao is a hidden gem tucked away in a side alley, making it an excellent choice if you’re seeking a break from traditional Italian dishes. The outdoor sign clearly states, “No Pizza & No pasta,” indicating that this spot is for those eager to try something different. Run by a Brazilian couple, this restaurant introduces a delightful Brazilian culinary experience, which is quite rare on the Amalfi Coast and throughout Italy.
Here, you can savor delicious dishes like coxinha, mandioca frita, tapioca, farofa, pao de queijo, brigadeiro, and delectable burgers. There are also numerous vegetarian, vegan, dairy-free, and gluten-free options, including burgers with gluten-free buns. This spot offers some of the healthiest meals in town, perfect for diners looking for plant-based, high-protein options rich in nutrients. Each dish is crafted fresh with high-quality, locally sourced ingredients. In addition to the amazing food, O Barao also boasts a refined specialty coffee menu and house-made desserts.
We recommend trying the quinoa burger, their scrumptious plum cake, and one of their outstanding coffees. If you’re in the mood for a matcha latte, O Barao is the only place in Maiori serving that specialty. Open all day, this is also a lovely choice for breakfast. Prices are reasonable, portion sizes are generous, and the owners genuinely care about creating a memorable dining experience. If you’re looking for a unique culinary adventure in Maiori, O Barao is the place to go.
- Location: Via Casa Mannini 13
- Website: Instagram
- Distance: 350 meters from Spiaggia di Maiori
- Phone: +39 340 289 8068
Casa Mandina
Casa Mandina is a charming fine-dining restaurant featuring an extensive wine list and traditional Italian dishes with a modern twist. It’s ideal for anyone seeking an exquisite dining experience in Maiori, whether to celebrate a birthday, an anniversary, or simply to treat yourself.
The restaurant may not be located on a particularly fancy street, and it doesn’t look remarkable from the outside. However, once you step inside, you’ll be greeted by a stylish, contemporary space with an open kitchen, allowing you to watch as skilled chefs prepare your meal. The head chefs and staff are passionate about their work, often engaging in conversations with guests about the dishes, ingredient sourcing, and their culinary journeys.
The dishes are meticulously crafted, with great attention paid to balancing the high-quality ingredients on your plate. We suggest trying the crudo featuring fish, shrimp, and langoustines. Additionally, their tomato soup and homemade pasta with seafood are outstanding. For a more adventurous palate, consider indulging in their excellent tasting menu.
The menu features a variety of seafood options along with some non-seafood dishes. Prices are slightly higher, as is typical for upscale dining experiences, but every euro spent feels justified. Please note that there is a coperto (cover charge) of 4 euros per person. Given the popularity of Casa Mandina, especially during the summer months, we recommend making a reservation in advance. Come prepared for an extraordinary culinary experience that will leave you completely satisfied.
- Distance: 350 meters from Spiaggia di Maiori
- Phone: +39 089 851620
Anima E Passione
Last but not least, we have the delightful Anima E Passione. This authentic restaurant, located just a street off the beachfront, offers a broad selection of simple yet exquisitely prepared Italian dishes. If you’re in the mood for homemade pasta or crispy, Italian-style pizzas, Anima E Passione is the place to be.
You have the option to dine outdoors on a cozy terrace, though be mindful of some noise from the road nearby. If that bothers you, we suggest securing a table indoors. The presence of many Italian families dining there is always a positive indicator of quality. Pricing is also reasonable, making Anima E Passione an excellent choice for those dining on a budget.
The staff is courteous, ensuring timely service, so it’s a good spot if you find yourself in a rush. Portion sizes tend to be larger than at many other restaurants in Maiori, so avoid over-ordering. This restaurant is particularly busy in the evenings, especially during peak season, so reservations are highly recommended. And, if you manage to save room, we suggest treating yourself to their fantastic homemade tiramisu for dessert.
- Distance: 150 meters from Spiaggia di Maiori
- Phone: +39 089 935 5525
Where to find the best restaurants in Maiori?
When searching for the finest dining experiences in Maiori, avoid jumping into the first restaurant you see. Often, those situated along busy tourist routes tend to provide lower food quality at inflated prices. Instead, aim to dine at restaurants situated off the beaten path, which can lead to better culinary experiences at more reasonable prices.
Although Maiori is a relatively small town, it boasts a remarkable variety of restaurants catering to both special occasions and casual meals. Dining options typically feature Mediterranean cuisine, with fresh fish taking center stage, alongside Italian staples like pasta and pizza. Drink selections usually highlight local wines, prosecco, or refreshing spritz cocktails.
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