Lunch at Amalfi’s Bar Gran Caffè

After a long winter on the Amalfi Coast, it’s hard to stay inside when the warm weather finally arrives in the spring. This is the time of year when it’s warmer outside most days than inside the old stone houses on the coast. When the sun shines in Amalfi, it’s an easy choice to stay out and enjoy it instead of going back home! Twice in the last couple of weeks we’ve decided to enjoy a leisurely and simple lunch outdoors at the Bar Gran Caffè in Amalfi. Tucking our shopping bags under the table to stay cool, we enjoyed the warm sun and beautiful view overlooking the Marina Grande beach. There were a few people out sunbathing and even some brave souls swimming. Gran Caffè is hands down my favorite outdoor spot in Amalfi – fabulous views, great sunny location and a menu of simple and fresh salads, bruschette and panini perfect for a light lunch.

Oh, did I mention that the prices are great? There’s a large selection of bruschette for around €3-4 per plate, sandwiches running from €3-6 and wonderful salads from €6-7. They also serve pizza and other options, but I haven’t tried those yet. I’m always too tempted by the salads and bruschette! Last time we tried these tasty bruschette topped with salami, alici and capers, which was an interesting and good combination.

The salads are very fresh and refreshingly different from the usual salads you’ll find on the Amalfi Coast. This one had artichokes, parmigiano cheese and was topped by two slices of prosciutto. Very good!

The Bar Gran Caffè is where you’ll often find me on summer evenings, enjoying my favorite aperitivo—a glass of prosecco—while watching the ferries come in and out of port and the sunset light fade across the beach in Amalfi. This summer I know I’ll be enjoying many delicious lunches at the Gran Caffè, too!