Top 5 Places to Eat in Cinque Terre

Written by Alexander Kopp, Marika Maslanka
03/09/2025
Vibrant houses on a cliff overlooking the ocean in Cinque Terre, Italy. Stunning coastal scenery.
Chait Goli, Pexels

Cinque Terre's culinary landscape celebrates fresh, local Ligurian flavors, with a strong emphasis on seafood, vibrant pesto, and traditional focaccia, catering to couples, families, and travelers seeking authentic dining experiences with breathtaking coastal views.

1. Trattoria dal Billy

Cuisine: Ligurian, Seafood

Perched in the upper part of Manarola, this trattoria offers exceptional seafood and traditional Ligurian dishes with stunning views of the village and coastline. The seafood starter appetizer, featuring 12 different small plates, is a must-try. Handmade taglierini pasta with shrimp, peppers, fresh tomatoes, and pine nuts also stands out. It provides a memorable dining experience. Reservations are highly recommended.

Price: €€€ (approximately €40-70 per person / $45-75 USD)

Getting There: A climb is required from the main village area, but it is walking distance from the Manarola train station.

2. Rio Bistrot

Cuisine: Italian, Seafood

Located in Riomaggiore, Rio Bistrot presents an upscale dining experience with Italian cuisine and incredibly fresh, flavorful seafood. Its panoramic terrace overlooking Riomaggiore's marina provides a charming setting. The menu often changes, but dishes incorporating fresh pesto, focaccia, and anchovies are consistently recommended. This restaurant holds a Michelin nod for its quality. Making reservations in advance is advisable due to its intimate size.

Price: €€€ (approximately €35-65 per person / $40-70 USD)

Getting There: Situated overlooking the harbor in Riomaggiore, it is accessible by foot, though be prepared for steps within the village.

3. Il Pirata delle 5 Terre

Cuisine: Italian, Bakery, Seafood

Nestled uphill from the Vernazza train station, Il Pirata offers a friendly atmosphere and a menu rich in local delicacies. While renowned for its authentic Sicilian pastries, it also serves satisfying breakfast, lunch, and dinner options. Signature dishes include seafood risotto, gnocchi with pesto, and various pasta selections. The brothers who run the establishment are known for their welcoming nature.

Price: €€ (approximately €15-35 per person / $16-38 USD)

Getting There: A short walk uphill from the Vernazza train station.

4. Nessun Dorma

Cuisine: Aperitivo, Light Italian fare

This charming Manarola establishment is celebrated for its stunning panoramic terrace, offering unparalleled views of the village and the Ligurian Sea, particularly at sunset. While not a fine dining restaurant, it excels in simple yet delicious food, focusing on fresh local ingredients like Tri Colori bruschetta and charcuterie boards. They do not serve pizza or pasta, but it is an ideal spot for an aperitivo with local wines. Reservations for the pesto-making class, which often secures a spot for drinks, can be booked via their app.

Price: €€ (approximately €15-30 per person / $16-33 USD for drinks and appetizers)

Getting There: Located in Manarola, it is a walk from the train station, with some uphill sections.

5. Tutti Fritti

Cuisine: Fried Seafood, Street Food

Tutti Fritti in Riomaggiore is a quintessential stop for fresh, quick, and affordable fried seafood. Patrons can enjoy cones filled with crispy calamari, fried anchovies, and other mixed fried fish and vegetables. The food is cooked to order, ensuring freshness. It is perfect for a casual snack while exploring or to enjoy by the water.

Price: € (approximately €5-15 per person / $5-16 USD)

Getting There: Conveniently located in Riomaggiore, it is easily accessible by foot from the village center.

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