Must-try Dishes
Caprese Salad - Insalata Caprese (fresh tomato salad) - Juicy heirloom tomatoes layered with creamy buffalo mozzarella and aromatic basil, drizzled with local olive oil. Locals enjoy this light dish for lunch, usually paired with a crusty piece of bread.
Pizza Margherita - Pizza Margherita (classic Neapolitan pizza) - A thin, crispy crust topped with tangy tomato sauce, fresh mozzarella, and fragrant basil. It’s often found in pizzerias buzzing with locals, where sharing a few pizzas is a common practice among friends.
Spaghetti alle Vongole - Spaghetti with Clams - Al dente spaghetti tossed with fresh clams in a light garlic and white wine sauce, seasoned to perfection. Typically savored during dinner, it’s common to see locals sharing a plate among family gatherings.
Frittata di Maccheroni - Macaroni Frittata (pasta omelet) - This unique dish consists of leftover pasta mixed with eggs, cheese, and herbs, then fried until golden. Often eaten as a quick lunch, it’s a nostalgic favorite that locals whip up at home from simple ingredients.
Arancini - Arancini di Riso (stuffed rice balls) - Deliciously crispy, these rice balls are stuffed with ragu, peas, and mozzarella, then deep-fried to achieve a crunchy exterior. A popular street food, they make a perfect on-the-go snack enjoyed by locals during afternoons.
Polpo alla Griglia - Grilled Octopus (octopus dish) - Tender octopus marinated with lemon and herbs, grilled to smoky perfection, often served over a bed of potatoes. Locals savor this dish during summer evenings at outdoor trattorias, making it a seasonal favorite.
Insalata di Polpo - Octopus Salad - A refreshing mix of tender octopus, cherry tomatoes, onions, and parsley dressed with lemon and olive oil. Commonly enjoyed as a light dinner, this salad showcases the local preference for seafood and freshness in flavors.
Desserts & Drinks
Cappuccino - Cappuccino (frothy coffee) - A rich blend of espresso, steamed milk, and velvety foam, often enjoyed at local cafés. Commonly sipped in the morning with a pastry, most Italians wouldn’t order it after noon; it’s all about that optimal foamy texture!
Limoncello - Limoncello (lemon liqueur) - This vibrant, zesty liqueur is made from lemon peels, sugar, and alcohol, traditionally served ice-cold in small glasses. Locals usually indulge in it after a hearty meal, celebrating the citrusy kick and cheerful mood it brings.
Granita al Limone - Granita di Limone (lemon slushy) - A refreshing icy treat made from freshly squeezed lemons, sugar, and water, resulting in a delightful grainy texture. You’ll find it most popular during hot summer days at beachside vendors - perfect while lounging under the sun!
Delizia al Limone - Delizia al Limone (lemon cake) - This luscious dessert features layers of sponge cake soaked in lemon syrup, all encased in a creamy lemon-flavored frosting. It’s often served during special occasions or family gatherings, and don’t be surprised if it’s decorated with pretty slices of lemon!
Caffè Marocchino - Caffè Marocchino (chocolate coffee) - A small espresso topped with a thin layer of cocoa or chocolate, creating a sweet and bitter marriage. Typically drunk in the afternoon for a little pick-me-up, but be careful – ordering a “caffè marocchino” in a touristy spot might land you an unexpected version!
By the way, try pairing that Granita with a light, flaky brioche for a delightful breakfast experience, but make sure to enjoy it quickly as it will melt in the warm Capri sun!