Stepping into the world of Italian cuisine, Ciao Capri offers a distinctive menu that perfectly captures the essence of authentic flavors from the island of Capri. Known for its breathtaking coastal beauty and vibrant culinary traditions, the menu at Ciao Capri is a celebration of fresh ingredients, traditional recipes, and innovative twists.
Whether you are craving a light antipasto or a hearty pasta dish, the restaurant’s offerings promise a memorable dining experience that transports you to the Mediterranean shores.
Each dish on the Ciao Capri menu is thoughtfully crafted, emphasizing seasonal produce, high-quality olive oils, and the freshest seafood and meats. The combination of rustic charm and refined techniques ensures that every bite tells a story of Italian heritage and passion.
Diners are invited to explore a variety of courses, from rich risottos to delicate desserts, that reflect the island’s culinary diversity.
Beyond just food, the Ciao Capri menu is an invitation to indulge in a cultural journey where taste and tradition meet. The careful balance of flavors and presentation highlights the restaurant’s commitment to authenticity and excellence, making it a favorite among locals and visitors alike.
Antipasti: The Perfect Start
The antipasti section of the Ciao Capri menu serves as a gateway to the meal, offering a selection of small dishes designed to awaken the palate. These starters are a mix of traditional recipes and contemporary creations, emphasizing fresh, locally sourced ingredients.
From cured meats to marinated vegetables, the antipasti options provide a variety of textures and flavors. Each dish is meant to be shared, encouraging conversation and communal enjoyment.
The use of Caprese salad—a classic combination of ripe tomatoes, fresh mozzarella, and aromatic basil—is a staple that embodies the simplicity and elegance of Italian starters.
Signature Antipasti Dishes
- Prosciutto e Melone: Thinly sliced prosciutto paired with sweet, juicy melon slices, blending savory and sweet notes.
- Calamari Fritti: Lightly battered and fried squid rings served with a tangy lemon aioli.
- Bruschetta al Pomodoro: Grilled bread topped with fresh tomatoes, garlic, basil, and extra virgin olive oil.
- Olive Miste: A curated mix of marinated olives featuring local varieties.
“Antipasti are not just starters; they are an expression of the vibrant life and rich tradition that define Italian cuisine.” – Ciao Capri Chef
Primi Piatti: The Heart of Italian Dining
The primi piatti, or first courses, hold a special place at Ciao Capri, showcasing an array of pasta, risotto, and soup dishes that reflect the island’s culinary heritage. These dishes are substantial and flavorful, designed to prepare the diner for the courses that follow.
Pasta is a highlight, with traditional shapes like spaghetti, penne, and trofie cooked to al dente perfection. The sauces range from rich, meaty ragùs to light, herb-infused olive oil blends, always emphasizing balance and freshness.
Risottos are prepared with care, blending local seafood or seasonal vegetables to create creamy, comforting plates.
Popular Pasta and Risotto Choices
- Spaghetti alle Vongole: Spaghetti with fresh clams, garlic, white wine, and chili flakes.
- Risotto ai Frutti di Mare: Creamy risotto infused with a medley of seafood including shrimp, mussels, and calamari.
- Penne all’Arrabbiata: Penne pasta tossed in a spicy tomato sauce with garlic and chili peppers.
- Trofie al Pesto: Ligurian twisted pasta served with a fresh basil pesto sauce.
| Dish | Main Ingredients | Flavor Profile |
| Spaghetti alle Vongole | Clams, garlic, white wine, chili | Light, briny, slightly spicy |
| Risotto ai Frutti di Mare | Seafood mix, arborio rice, herbs | Creamy, savory, aromatic |
| Penne all’Arrabbiata | Tomatoes, garlic, chili, olive oil | Spicy, tangy, robust |
| Trofie al Pesto | Basil, pine nuts, parmesan, olive oil | Fresh, nutty, herby |
Secondi Piatti: Main Courses
The secondi piatti section offers a rich variety of meat, poultry, and seafood entrées that serve as the centerpiece of the meal. Emphasizing traditional preparation techniques, these dishes celebrate the natural flavors of the ingredients, often accompanied by seasonal sides.
From succulent lamb to fresh fish caught daily, the menu reflects Capri’s coastal influences alongside inland Italian culinary customs. Each dish is carefully paired with complementary sauces and garnishes that enhance rather than overpower.
Highlight Main Course Options
- Branzino al Forno: Oven-baked sea bass with lemon, herbs, and olive oil.
- Agnello alla Griglia: Grilled lamb chops seasoned with rosemary and garlic.
- Pollo alla Cacciatora: Chicken slow-cooked in a tomato and olive sauce.
- Saltimbocca alla Romana: Veal cutlets topped with prosciutto and sage, sautéed in white wine.
“Our secondi piatti are designed to bring the true taste of Italy to your plate, where each ingredient shines in harmony with the others.” – Executive Chef at Ciao Capri
Contorni: Side Dishes to Complement
Contorni, or side dishes, play a crucial role in rounding out the meal by providing texture and flavor contrasts to the main courses. The Ciao Capri menu offers a thoughtfully curated selection of vegetables, salads, and starches that enhance the overall dining experience.
Seasonal vegetables are often roasted or sautéed with herbs and garlic, allowing their natural sweetness and earthiness to come through. Additionally, light salads with fresh greens and citrus dressings balance the richness of heavier dishes.
Popular Side Dish Selections
- Patate al Rosmarino: Roasted potatoes with rosemary and sea salt.
- Insalata Mista: Mixed greens with cherry tomatoes, olives, and balsamic vinaigrette.
- Verdure Grigliate: Grilled seasonal vegetables drizzled with extra virgin olive oil.
- Polenta Fritta: Crispy fried polenta sticks served with a garlic aioli.
| Side Dish | Preparation | Best Paired With |
| Patate al Rosmarino | Roasted | Lamb, chicken, veal |
| Insalata Mista | Fresh, tossed | Seafood, pasta dishes |
| Verdure Grigliate | Grilled | Fish, lighter meats |
| Polenta Fritta | Fried | Heavier meat dishes |
Dolci: Sweet Endings
No Italian meal is complete without indulging in dolci, and Ciao Capri offers a selection of desserts that perfectly conclude the dining experience. These sweets range from traditional classics to innovative creations that highlight local ingredients.
Each dessert is crafted to provide a balance of sweetness and texture, often incorporating fresh fruits, nuts, and creamy elements. The use of limoncello and ricotta showcases the flavors unique to the Capri region.
Popular Dessert Choices
- Tiramisu: Classic coffee-infused layered dessert with mascarpone cheese.
- Delizia al Limone: A signature lemon sponge cake soaked in limoncello syrup and filled with lemon cream.
- Panna Cotta: Silky cooked cream topped with berry compote.
- Cannoli Siciliani: Crispy pastry shells filled with sweet ricotta and chocolate chips.
“Desserts at Ciao Capri are more than just sweets; they are a reflection of the island’s zest for life and love of natural flavors.” – Pastry Chef
Wine Selection: Pairing Perfection
The wine list at Ciao Capri complements the menu’s flavors, offering a curated selection of Italian vintages and international favorites. The goal is to enhance the dining experience through thoughtful pairings that bring out the best in each dish.
From crisp whites perfect for seafood to robust reds that stand up to hearty meats, the wine list is diverse yet focused. Sommeliers are available to guide guests through choices based on personal preference and the dishes ordered.
Featured Wines and Pairings
| Wine | Region | Recommended Pairing |
| Falanghina | Campania | Seafood dishes, light pasta |
| Aglianico | Campania | Grilled meats, lamb |
| Prosecco | Veneto | Appetizers, light desserts |
| Chianti Classico | Tuscany | Hearty pasta, veal |
- Falanghina: A white wine with floral and citrus notes, ideal for seafood dishes.
- Aglianico: A full-bodied red with dark fruit flavors and firm tannins, great for lamb and grilled meats.
- Prosecco: Sparkling and refreshing, perfect for starting the meal or pairing with light desserts.
- Chianti Classico: Medium-bodied red with cherry and earthy flavors, excellent with rich pasta sauces.
Beverages Beyond Wine
While wine takes center stage, Ciao Capri also offers a range of other beverages to suit all tastes. From handcrafted cocktails to non-alcoholic options, the drink menu is designed to complement the menu and enhance the overall dining atmosphere.
The cocktail selection emphasizes Italian classics like the Negroni and Aperol Spritz, crafted with fresh ingredients and premium spirits. For those seeking lighter or non-alcoholic options, fresh juices, artisanal sodas, and Italian coffee specialties are available.
Popular Beverage Selections
- Negroni: Gin, Campari, and sweet vermouth with an orange twist.
- Aperol Spritz: Aperol, Prosecco, and soda water, garnished with an orange slice.
- Italian Espresso: Rich and intense, a perfect end to any meal.
- Fresh Lemonade: Made with locally sourced lemons for a refreshing, zesty flavor.
“Our beverage menu is crafted to offer something for every guest, enhancing the flavors of our food and the spirit of Italian hospitality.” – Beverage Director
The Ciao Capri menu is a thoughtfully curated reflection of the island’s culinary heritage and contemporary dining trends. With an emphasis on fresh, local ingredients and traditional recipes, it offers an authentic taste of Italy’s Mediterranean coast.
From vibrant antipasti to indulgent desserts, every dish is crafted to delight the senses and celebrate the joy of shared meals.
Whether paired with a carefully selected wine or a refreshing cocktail, the food and beverage offerings at Ciao Capri work harmoniously to create an unforgettable gastronomic experience. The menu not only honors time-honored traditions but also embraces innovation, making it a destination for both classic Italian cuisine lovers and adventurous diners.
The attention to detail, from ingredient sourcing to presentation, underscores the restaurant’s dedication to quality and authenticity.
Dining at Ciao Capri is more than just a meal; it is an immersive journey into Italy’s rich culinary culture, inviting guests to savor every moment and every bite. The thoughtfully designed menu, combined with warm hospitality, ensures that each visit becomes a cherished memory.
Whether seeking a romantic dinner or a lively gathering with friends, the Ciao Capri menu offers something exceptional for every occasion.
