Donna Melina

Occupying an old restored farmhouse, this large, spacious and attractive restaurant is run by a couple who offer their guests Mediterranean cuisine which is full of flavour. The focus here is on the traditions of Calabria, but the chef’s native region of Campania is also evident in many of the dishes.

Situated within the beautiful Villa Paola hotel just outside Tropea, this gourmet restaurant is named after the Frati Minimi (Order of Minims) who once occupied this old monastery. The modern and occasionally creative cuisine here is showcased on 4-, 5-, 7- and 9-course tasting menus (San Tommaso, Miserie e Nobiltà, Di Necessità Virtù, La Novena ), all of which are prepared from the best Calabrian ingredients including many vegetables and citrus fruit grown on the property. The small wine list also has a regional focus and is complemented by a choice of cocktails served at the bar.

The central location, overlooking the rocky shore just steps away, makes this venue an ideal stop for those seeking straightforward, no-frills Mediterranean cuisine. The menu favors the sea, with an excellent raw trio and a series of well-executed pastas, among which the ricotta and red prawn tortello stands out, elevated by a touch of black garlic. The welcome is warm and attention to guests evident in every detail. In short, an excellent gourmet stop.

Perched high on the tufa cliffs overlooking the Costa degli Dei, this contemporary-style restaurant boasts superb views from its dining room and especially from its panoramic summer terrace. The cuisine served by the young owner-chef is as modern as the setting – dishes are light and almost exclusively focused on local fish.