Originally a 17th century salon named after John-the-Baptist, The Canfalone is one of those rare Italian eateries perched magnificently over the Amalfi Coast that's so over the top if feels equal parts restaurant and museum. A terrifying street front yields to a delightful entryway and hostess that ushers guests though an elaborate series of rooms topped of with the main event, a fresco vault of by painter Guido Reni. The dining room and its series of adjoining rooms are lined in terracotta floors with colorful ceramic emblems near an impressive masonry fireplace. From the eyes down everything is casual with country-style decor and colorful wooden chairs with everything from the eyes up being gilded, baroque or depicting shirtless saviors with surprisingly ripped torsos.
The Food
A spectacular dining experience in a remarkable, historic setting offers a high-season menu of seasonal seafood salads arranged with fresh shrimp, calamari and octopus. Pasta course is smaller and tamer than other Ravello eateries, with homemade creations topped with lighter tomato or olive oil based sauces. The exotic surprises are saved for main course that spans the realms of lamb, swordfish, beef fillets and occasional lobster specials on beds of grilled or pureed vegetables with array of sides and lemony sauces.
Last Word
During warmer summer month, a large outdoor terrace hangs perilously over the sea, no worries - it’s been that way for the last 300-years, arranged in plaid-backed rattan chairs and more relaxed vibe albeit with white glove service.
