Mangia Monday for seaside delicacies in Atrani, along Italy’s Amalfi Coast

This week’s Mangia Monday nibble comes from guest writer, Laura Thayer, and  the seaside village of Atrani, along Italy’s Amalfi Coast.

Walking into a good restaurant—one that is run with passion, warmth and love—should feel like home. I’m surprised just how often I feel that type of hospitality and kindness on Italy’s Amalfi Coast where I live.  After reading Lisa’s tale of her wonderful experience at Trattoria da Armandino in Praiano, I wanted to share with Wanderlust Women one of my favorite Amalfi Coast gems.

While not quite as hidden away, Ristorante Le Arcate overlooks the sea in the quiet and beautiful little town of Atrani.  Just a short walk from Amalfi, Atrani is wonderfully free of the crowds and tour buses that clog up its more popular neighbor.  And with a black sandy beach, gorgeous waters and a sweet piazza filled with cafés and restaurants, Atrani somehow manages to remain a little gem tucked away from the summer chaos.

Atrani beach from Le Arcate

Named after the arches, or arcate in Italian, that were built to support the winding Amalfi Coast road, Ristorante Le Arcate was cleverly squeezed into the only spot possible for a seaside location in Atrani.  Step inside the indoor seating area, which is used primarily in the winter, and you’ll find a cave dug directly out of the rocks. Outdoors, the terrace is one of my favorite summer dining spots, with the sound of the sea, the lights of the Church of Santa Maria Maddalena and the views of the Amalfi Coast toward Maiori.

Seafood is the natural choice at Le Arcate, and their paccheri (large tube-shaped pasta) with swordfish, olives and capers is one of my favorites. The grilled fish is also divine, as are the pizzas, which are popular with the locals in Atrani and Amalfi.  If you’re looking for a restaurant away from the tourists, stop by Atrani and Le Arcate for a beautiful meal by the sea.

Laura Thayer is an art historian and freelance writer living on the Amalfi Coast in Campania, Italy. She writes about travel for MNUI travel insurance and blogs about life on the Amalfi Coast at her own site Ciao Amalfi.