The largest and most populous town of the Cinque Terre (the "sisters" are Riomaggiore and Vernazza and the hamlets of Corniglia and Manarola) is also known for its wide, well-equipped sandy beach. The historic centre, by the old port, is charming, though it's crowded during the high season. On the other side, in the Fegina area, you find the residential area and the railway station. Given the large influx of visitors, there are many trattorias, pubs, small restaurants, and focaccerias, but you must be careful to avoid tourist traps. Here are some reliable spots to try.
Where to eat in Monterosso al Mare
L'Ancora della Tortuga
Restaurant. Established in 2007, it's worth visiting for its spectacular location alone, perched on a cliff overlooking the sea. But the food is also excellent, featuring typical Ligurian dishes, seafood based on the daily market, and land options. All paired with a well-chosen selection of wines. The interiors are welcoming, and the outdoor space (especially the corner with the small table) is fantastic. Book in advance.
L'Ancora della Tortuga - salita Frati Cappuccini, 4 - 0187 800065 - ristorantetortuga.it
Buranco
Farmhouse. Not by the sea but a few steps from the coast, it's a hospitality structure immersed in the greenery of the immediate hinterland, among vineyards and woods. Three rooms for accommodation and a restaurant offering traditional but refined cuisine complete the offer: Monterosso anchovies in various ways, seafood carbonara, Acquerello risotto with red prawns and home-grown organic lemons, seafood fry-up plus some meat options. The farm's wines, honey, jams, oil, and homemade spirits are available.
Buranco - via Buranco, 72 - 0187 817677 - burancocinqueterre.it
Ciak
Restaurant. Octopus salad, stuffed mussels, fried stuffed anchovies, black squid ink risotto, Ciak spaghetti (mussels, clams, tomato, Taggiasca olives), and fish prepared in classic ways, grilled or baked. Ciak is a landmark in the historic centre that maintains good quality without too many tourist compromises. The wine cellar adequately complements the food.
Ciak - p.zza Don Giovanni Minzoni, 6 - 0187 817014 - ristoranteciak.net
Enoteca Internazionale
Wine Bar. A family-run old-fashioned shop, the oldest in Monterosso, now carried on by the new generation. Many Ligurian labels first and foremost, a wide assortment of wines from all wine regions, with some French bottles. There's a section dedicated to oils and artisanal pasta. You can also stop by for a snack, an aperitif, or a dinner in the indoor room or at the outdoor tables in the nice weather.
Enoteca Internazionale - via Roma, 98 - 0187 817278 - enotecainternazionale.com
Miky
Restaurant. A must in the town, on the seafront, family-run, loved by locals and tourists alike. While the classics - especially the Monterossina anchovy dish - are a safe bet, the creative touches are worth trying. For more informal pit stops, there's La Cantina di Miky at number 90.
Miky - via Fegina, 104 - 0187 817608 - ristorantemiky.it
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