Five Culinary Gems of Ischia: Discover the Best Dining

Ischia, a jewel in the Tyrrhenian Sea, is celebrated not only for its thermal springs and breathtaking vistas but also for a culinary scene that captures the essence of Mediterranean cuisine. From Michelin-starred establishments to seaside restaurants offering unforgettable dining experiences, Ischia promises a feast for the senses. Here’s a guide to the five best restaurants that embody the island’s gastronomic diversity and excellence.

Danì Maison

Location: Ischia

Address: Via Montetignuso, 4

Price Range: Around €200 for tasting menu.

Tucked away in a picturesque corner of Ischia, Danì Maison stands as a world-renowned culinary destination under the guidance of Chef Nino di Costanzo. Boasting two Michelin stars, this restaurant offers an intimate experience with just 16 seats, some of which are directly in the kitchen. Costanzo’s cuisine, a blend of tradition and innovation, turns each dish into a masterpiece, promising a unique sensory journey. The tasting menus, starting at around €200, are a celebration of Ischian and Mediterranean cuisine, with options for vegans and vegetarians.

Giardino Eden

Location: Baia di Cartaromana, Ischia

Address: Via Nuova Cartaromana

Price Range: Variable

Giardino Eden is not just a restaurant but an experience that combines exquisite flavors with stunning sea views. This elegant beach club offers the chance to enjoy a beachside lunch or a romantic dinner under the stars. The cuisine, emphasizing seafood and local produce, pairs with a wine selection that enhances each dish. Giardino Eden is the perfect spot for those seeking a magical atmosphere and unforgettable dishes.

Coco Marè

Location: Via Nuova Cartaromana, Ischia

Address: Via Nuova Cartaromana, entrance to Michelangelo’s tower, 58

Price Range: €36-€55

Coco Marè offers a unique blend of relaxation and gastronomy, with an unparalleled view of the Aragonese Castle. Accessible both by land and sea, this restaurant boasts a private beach where diners can enjoy traditional Ischia dishes in a serene and welcoming atmosphere. The menu, which varies with the seasons, features specialties based on fresh fish and seafood, perfect for those wanting to taste the essence of the sea.

O’ Pignattello

Location: Lacco Ameno, Ischia

Address: Corso Angelo Rizzoli, 154

Price Range: Around €50 for tasting menu.

Located in the lively square of Lacco Ameno, O’ Pignattello is a culinary gem that marries tradition with modernity. Led by Chef Libera Iovine, the island’s first Michelin-starred chef, the restaurant is known for its dishes that narrate the culinary history of Ischia through local ingredients and innovative techniques. The tasting menu, around €50, invites guests to discover the authentic flavors of the island in an elegant and refined atmosphere.

Indaco

Location: Lacco Ameno, Ischia (Regina Isabella – Resort Spa Restaurant)

Address: Piazza Santa Restituta, 1

Price Range: From €95 for tasting menu.

Within the Hotel Regina Isabella, the Michelin-starred restaurant Indaco offers one of the most exclusive dining experiences in Ischia. Chef Pasquale Palamaro presents a menu inspired by the freshness of the sea and the richness of the garden. Guests can dine on the terrace, enjoying a splendid view of a picturesque bay, while the setting sun paints the sky in hues from blue to pink. Indaco’s cuisine is a tribute to the natural beauty of Ischia, with tasting menus starting at €95, offering a culinary journey as pleasing to the palate as it is to the eyes.

Visiting these restaurants is a culinary adventure that transcends the mere act of eating; it’s an immersion into the culture, tradition, and beauty of Ischia. Each dish tells a story, each view opens a new horizon, making the island not just a place to visit, but to experience with all senses. Ischia, with its high-level culinary offerings, confirms its place as one of Italy’s most desirable gastronomic destinations.