La mesa de Cilento: donde la costa italiana brinda los aromas del mar

Between crystal-clear sea and authentic flavors, here are seven places to eat in Cilento, in Santa Maria di Castellabate.

With summer now in full swing and temperatures in the cities becoming increasingly unbearable, the desire to escape to places where the sea breeze cools the days is growing. It's no coincidence that more and more people are choosing to retreat to the Cilento coast. Santa Maria di Castellabate is a small jewel on this stretch of coast, a seaside village that combines natural beauty, tradition, and fine cuisine. Nestled between the fishing port, the golden beaches, and the lush greenery of the Cilento National Park, it's a place with an authentic atmosphere, worth a stop (even if it's just for a weekend).

We've selected a list of must-see restaurants in the Santa Maria di Castellabate area for you to enjoy delicious food in Cilento.

The Bathers

Our list of places to eat in Cilento begins at Lido Le Bagnanti, among the beaches of Santa Maria di Castellabate, a small corner of authenticity where hospitality is a must. Run by siblings Dalila and Alfonso Ferruzzo, along with their parents Gennaro and Antonella, a family atmosphere is reflected in both the atmosphere and the dishes. The menu changes daily, reflecting the morning's supplies and the availability of fresh fish. Must-try dishes include the famous Cilentan acqua sale (water salt) for those opting for a light lunch, or the seafood scialatielli. While you wait? Friselline with local anchovies or other delicacies of the day are served. Le Bagnanti is not just for a day of sea and sun, but also to savor Cilento seafood cuisine without formality, yet with all its authenticity.

The Bathers. Pozzillo Beach, Santa Maria di Castellabate (SA). Tel. 333 4216796. Facebook. Instagram.

The Wine Experience 2.0

Just minutes from the city center, away from the hustle and bustle of the waterfront, the Wine Experience 2.0 is a gem for those who love discovering the region through wine. A must-visit for those seeking something different from the traditional dinner experience. More than a wine bar, it's a space dedicated to wine in all its facets, where the owner (passionate and highly knowledgeable) guides guests through local labels, natural and organic wines, and lesser-known selections. Accompanying the wines are his renowned tapas platters, featuring a selection of cured meats, cheeses, and local products, designed to complement the tastings. The atmosphere is intimate and refined, with a relaxed atmosphere, ideal for a casual evening.

The Wine Experience 2.0. Contrada San Gennaro, Santa Maria di Castellabate (SA). Tel. 366 256 7827. Facebook. Instagram.

Bistrot Belleville

In the heart of Santa Maria di Castellabate, overlooking Corso Matarazzo, Bistrot Belleville is a place to be enjoyed all day. Perfect for a leisurely start to the morning, it offers al fresco breakfasts featuring croissants and homemade pastries, while the village comes to life. At lunchtime, it offers simple yet carefully prepared dishes, prepared with fresh, seasonal ingredients. The atmosphere is family-friendly, ideal for a relaxing break between a stroll and a dip in the sea. But Belleville doesn't stop there: at sunset, it transforms into the perfect meeting place for aperitivo, thanks to a curated drinks list and expertly crafted cocktails. A versatile and welcoming bistro, capable of adapting to any time of day.

Belleville Bistro. Piazza Lucia, Santa Maria di Castellabate (SA). Tel. 0974 965186. Facebook. Instagram.

Nereo Sunset Bar

If there's one place to enjoy an aperitivo while watching the sunset in Santa Maria di Castellabate, it's the Nereo Sunset Bar. Located right by the sea, overlooking the Cilento coast, this venue is the perfect choice for a waterfront aperitivo. A well-curated drinks list ranges from classic mixed drinks to more creative twists, always accompanied by interesting appetizers, such as fried montanarine (served both in the classic version with sauce and a more creative version with the freshest raw fish) or tacos with tuna tartare. During the summer months, every Sunday evening the venue hosts AperiSunday: an aperitivo with music starting at 8:00 PM. A regular spot to enjoy cocktails and snacks in good company, in a relaxed yet refined atmosphere.

Nereo. Via Perotti 17, Santa Maria di Castellabate (SA). Tel. 377 468 0670. Facebook. Instagram.

Carmine's Restaurant

Just outside Santa Maria, in the quiet seaside village of Ogliastro, Ristorante Da Carmine is a must-visit for those seeking a refined seafood dinner in an elegant and refined setting. The family-run restaurant is part of a historic hotel, boasting a splendid location overlooking the sea, ideal for a special evening. The menu focuses on the freshest ingredients, prepared with skill and simplicity: raw and cooked appetizers, flavorful seafood first courses, catch of the day, and homemade desserts. The elegant setting maintains the welcoming atmosphere typical of Cilento. While the prices are slightly higher, the experience is worth it for the quality of the cuisine, the attentive service, and the sea view that alone is worth the visit.

Ristorante da Carmine. Via lungomare Alcide de Gasperi, Castellabate (SA). Tel. 0974 963023. Website: Facebook. Instagram.

The Sparrowhawk

Just steps from the main street, Lo Sparviero is a restaurant sure to surprise those who love creatively reinterpreted seafood flavors. The sea view and lively atmosphere make it ideal for a casual yet refined dinner. The menu effortlessly alternates fresh seafood dishes, revisited fried cuoppi, and sushi-inspired dishes, blending traditional Italian flavors with fusion options. A young, dynamic cuisine that dares without forgetting its local roots. Open for both lunch and dinner, Lo Sparviero is the perfect place for those who enjoy a variety of flavors without compromising on the quality of Cilento's raw ingredients.

The Hawk. Via Andrea Guglielmini 5, Santa Maria Di Castellabate (SA). Tel. 327 159 6896. Facebook. Instagram.

The Farm

Nestled in the greenery of the Alano area of ​​Santa Maria di Castellabate, La Fattoria is a rustic, family-run restaurant, established in 1986 by Luigi Guariglia and now run with passion by his daughters and his wife, Carmela. The atmosphere is warm and welcoming, with wood and earthenware furnishings, and the menu ranges from hearty appetizers to homemade fried dishes, seasonal side dishes, and the famous pan pizza. Among the appetizers, try "La Fattoria," which includes a selection of cured meats, cheeses, and vegetables. The first courses reflect the homemade tradition of Cilento, with fresh pasta such as gnocchi, cortecce, ravioli, and tagliatelle served with Cilento ragù. Many customers come specifically for the pan pizza, fragrant and ideal for sharing, available in small or large sizes, with a variable number of pieces from 9 to 15. Prices are undoubtedly lower than the average in Santa Maria di Castellabate.

The Farm. Via Alano 22, Castellabate (SA). Tel. 0974 968110. Facebook.