Nestled in the shadow of the world-famous volcano of Mount Vesuvius, Naples sits on the picturesque shores of the Bay of Naples in Italy’s southern coast. Its rich and verdant history, which dates back some 4000 years, coupled with such architectural delights as the Royal Palace of Naples, has made it a must-see destination for legions of tourists for centuries. And fans of fine cuisine and hearty meals are equally well catered for - what with Italy’s fame as a food connoisseurs’ paradise. And, what finer way to enjoy some of that fine dining than at a waterfront restaurant - be it marina eateries right next to the majestic historic fortress of Ovo Castle or Michelin-starred wonders that tower several storeys above the shore and offer sublime views - by day and night. Read on for some of the best waterfront dining spots in Naples, Italy.
1. La Cantinella
Enjoying very strong word-of-mouth for its atmosphere, food and service, La Cantinella is a popular dining option for those craving a waterside setting for a lunch or evening meal. Open right through until close to midnight - maximising the chances that you’ll be able to slot in a visit around your busy holiday itinerary - the eatery serves a mix of Italian/Mediterranean dishes. It is also vegetarian-friendly, so those with specific dietary requirements take note. Its location on the corner of Via Cuma and the seafront street of Via Nazario Sauro, also not only maximises the waterside setting but also places it conveniently close to the harbour/port.
La Cantinella
Address: Via Cuma, n ° 42, Naples (NA)
Website: La Cantinella
Opening hours: Mon - Sat: 12.30pm - 3.30pm, 7.30pm - 11.30pm; Sun: 12:30pm - 3:30pm
2. Gusto & Gusto
Whether it’s tasty pizza or mouth-watering seafood dishes you crave, Gusto & Gusto may well be the spot to satisfy your taste buds. Its menu boasts more than 40 different varieties of pizzas and calzones - so you’ll be all but guaranteed to find a choice to suit, and maybe even discover a few hitherto undiscovered taste sensations into the bargain. There’s even a number of vegetarian and vegan options as well. What’s more its location on Via Partenope not only puts it right on the seafront but also close to one of the city university campuses - should your trip be for study or work. Its food, service and atmosphere are also highly-rated, with past diners praising the “very tasty” menu and good portion sizes, as well as the “friendly staff”.
Gusto & Gusto
Address: Via Partenope, 31/33, 80121 Napoli NA
Website: Gusto & Gusto
Opening hours: 11.30am - 12am (daily)
3. La Scialuppa Restaurant
Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account
Posted by Ristorante La Scialuppa on Monday, May 24, 2021
There are waterfront settings and then there’s La Scialuppa, which is almost literally surrounded by the sea. Located on the Borgo Marinari islet, which juts out into the sea, the restaurant rubs shoulders with boats in the marina and the impressive islet fortress of Ovo Castle - making it a strong option for those seeking a romantic meal. Its menu boasts a mix of Italian seafood and land-based dishes - as well as vegetarian options. Not only that but it is handily-placed for the nearby Museo di Etnopreistoria, should you plan on a museum or castle visit either before or after your meal.
La Scialuppa Restaurant
Address: Piazzetta Marinari, 5 -80132, Naples, NA
Website: La Scialuppa Restaurant
Opening hours: Tue - Sun: 12.30pm - 3pm, 7.30pm - 12am (closed on Mon)
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4. Regina Margherita
Another option for those who enjoy views of the imposing Ovo Castle, Regina Margherita looks across the water to the impressive and romantic fortress from Via Partenope, just a short distance away. As its name suggests, it is a popular option for fans of a traditional Italian pizza, although the menu also extends to other Mediterranean dishes and seafood, should some of your group be in the mood for something else. Indeed, diners were impressed, giving it high praise for its pizza and pasta, and also hailed its “fab location” - king indeed. And it is open until 1 am every day of the week - offering you greater opportunities to pay it a visit.
Regina Margherita
Address: Via Partenope 19/20/21, 80121 Naples
Website: Regina Margherita
Opening hours: 12pm - 1am (daily)
5. Caruso Roof Garden
Editor's Note: There's no photo available at the time of writing
So far, the dining options have been limited to delightful ground-level sea views, but what if you want to maximise your vista by dining in a loftier setting? Well, look no further than the Caruso Roof Garden. Situated on the ninth floor of the Grand Hotel Vesuvio on Via Partenope it offers spellbinding views across the marina to Ovo Castle and the Bay of Naples beyond. What’s more its reputation matches its setting, rating among the top eateries in the city and enjoying the strong word of mouth for the atmosphere, service and food. Dishes include Mediterranean and seafood options. Open for afternoon lunches and in the evenings, you’ll be able to enjoy the view by day or night - just remember to dress up for the occasion come the evening, when jackets and more formal wear are recommended. Reservations are also advised.
Caruso Roof Garden
Address: Via Partenope 45 - 80121 Naples
Website: Caruso Roof Garden
Opening hours: Tue - Sun: 1pm - 3pm, 8.30pm - 11pm (closed on Mon)
6. La Bersagliera
Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account
Another popular eatery that lies at the ‘gateway’ to Borgo Marinari and the picture postcard Ovo Castle, La Bersagliera enjoys strong word-of-mouth for its range of Italian and seafood dishes. Gluten-free and vegetarian-friendly options also exist - should you have special dietary needs. And, if the weather is good, the outdoor patio tables - which sit right next to the boats of the marina, enjoy a view across to the castle, making for a memorable spot in which to indulge a little al fresco dining. Those seeking to dine before a trip to the San Carlo Theatre or Royal Palace will also find it a convenient spot.
La Bersagliera
Address: Borgo Marinari, 10/11 Banchina Santa Lucia 80132, Naples
Website: La Bersagliera
Opening hours: Wed - Mon: 12pm - 3.30pm, 7pm - 11.30pm (closed on Tue)
7. Transatlantico Restaurant Hotel
Editor's Note: There's no photo available at the time of writing
Set at the foot of Ovo Castle and within a five-star hotel, the Transatlantico boasts large windows to maximise your views of the marina and the bright and peaceful neighbourhood. There’s also outdoor patio seating for those seeking to dine al fresco right next to the water’s edge. Enjoying an excellent reputation, it won fans for its food, service and especially for its atmosphere. Indeed, numerous guests praised it as a strong contender for a romantic meal. The menu includes Mediterranean and seafood options, as well as some vegetarian-friendly fare.
Transatlantico Restaurant Hotel
Address: Via Lucilliana, 15 - 80132 Naples
Website: Transatlantico Restaurant Hotel
Opening hours: Wed - Mon: 10am - 3pm, 7pm - 12am (closed on Tue)
8. Il Comandante
If it’s fine dining you’re after, then look no further. Il Comandante boasts a Michelin-star and its fine cuisine is matched by its mesmerising elevated views out across the Bay of Naples. Located on the top floor of the Romeo hotel, Il Comandante, is one of the highest-rated restaurants in the city and boasts an excellent reputation for its service, food and atmosphere. The menu also boasts a range of Mediterranean, European and seafood dishes - as well as gluten-free options - so you’re likely to find something to tantalise those taste buds. Past diners also praised the “incredible” views. Naturally, its status as ‘event’ dining means you should dress up for the occasion - as there’s an elegant dress code.
Il Comandante
Address: Romeo Hotel, Via Cristoforo Colombo, 45 – 80133 Napoli
Website: Il Comandante
Opening hours: Tue - Sat: 7.30pm - 10.30pm (closed on Sun & Mon)
9. Il Miracolo dei Pesci
One of the highest-rated eateries in the whole of Naples, this eatery whose name literally translates as the miracle of Pisces, serves a range of seafood as well as some Italian options. Past diners were fulsome in their praise for the quality of the food, throwing about such superlatives as “amazing”, “absolutely wonderful” and “best seafood I’ve ever had”. Located to the west of the city centre on the Via Francesco Caracciola, it is close to the striking landmark of the Fontana del Sebeto - which is sure to prove a tantalising target for your camera either before or after your meal.
Il Miracolo dei Pesci
Address: Largo Sermoneta,17, Napoli, 80100 Naples
Website: Il Miracolo dei Pesci
Opening hours: Tue - Sat: 1pm - 3pm, 8pm - 12am; Sun: 1pm - 4pm (closed on Mon)
10. Palazzo Petrucci Ristorante
Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account
Another option for food connoisseurs, Palazzo Petrucci Ristorante became the first Naples restaurant to win a coveted Michelin star in 2008 and still enjoys a very high reputation among the city’s diners - winning particular praise for its menu and service. Named after the palace whose former stables it once called home, the restaurant moved to its current base in another historic building - this time on the waterfront, back in 2016. Its mix of Italian, seafood and vegetarian-friendly dishes are popular, while its picturesque setting has won it fans among those seeking a romantic dinner with their loved ones.
Palazzo Petrucci Ristorante
Address: Via Posillipo 16 C, 80123, Naples
Website: Palazzo Petrucci Ristorante
Opening hours: Mon: 7.30pm - 10.30pm; Tue - Sat: 12.30pm - 2.30pm, 7.30pm - 10.30pm; Sun: 12.30pm - 2.30pm
Fine food and stunning vistas
If it’s truly memorable settings you’re after, then the waterfront of Naples is certainly a good call. From stunning eateries in the shadow of the striking Ovo Castle to Michelin-starred restaurants with a spellbinding elevated vantage point, there’s a dizzying array of cracking choices from which to pick. Where will your culinary adventures take you?
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