We had some incredible dining experiences in Positano–fresh seafood and flavors, simple ingredients, heart-warmingly accommodating and friendly people, sea breezes, and candlelight seemed to be on the menu each night for dinner. We ate at quite a few places–it was date night every night!–but these were 2 of my favorites:

• Il Fornillo . This was our first meal in Positano as it was steps from our villa, and it really set the stage for the fantastic cuisine we were to find in this gem of a town. Serving up traditional Italian dishes in a traditional atmosphere, think of Il Fornillo for delicious fare at a good value (in comparison to restaurants in the town center). Their vine-flourishing trellis on the restaurant’s terrace frames out the beautiful view of the sea, and a trio of musicians serenades guests after dark. The image above was Ken’s plate: Homemade pumpkin blossom ravioli with fresh shellfish. Il Fornillo. Via Pasitea, 266.
• Next2 . Just might have been the best meal of my life. I know that’s a big statement, but I’m tearing up just thinking about it! Next2 offers creative fine dining in a relaxed atmosphere. We we began our meal with a house recommendation of a delicious orange and apricot martini. Check out the recipe below! I ordered the catch of the day, and our server brought the entire grilled fish on a platter. He adroitly filleted it before our very eyes, and it was so fresh and tender that the head was easily removed with a spoon! The entire meal was just like that–a series of special little moments. From the little chef tastings,  to the staff’s impromptu lessons in Italian language and pronunciation, and complimentary limoncello, we left Next 2 in a full-belly dreamlike state. Suggested Dish: Catch of the Day. Next2. Via Pasitea, 242.

---

 

Orange & Apricot Martini

Affectionately known as the “Orange Positano” by locals, this cocktail is the perfect hot weather refreshment. It’s the orange and apricot flavors that are the stars of this show, and the gin serves as the supporting “kick,” so don’t be turned off if you’re not a huge gin fan. I’m not either, and since we’ve gotten back, I’ve been shaking these babies up whenever the occasion calls for a cocktail. Freshly squeezed orange juice is a big key to the fantastic-ness here, so don’t cut corners! It’s worth it. The recipe below makes one martini, but it can easily be doubled for two.

Ingredients:

• 2 oz Freshly squeezed orange juice (roughly 1/2 of a juicy orange or two shots). We use Valencia oranges, but you can really use any kind of orange you have on hand. I’ve learned that when oranges are not in season, you may need to use both halves of the orange as they’re not quite as juicy.
• 1 oz (one shot) Apricot brandy.
• 1 oz (one shot) Gin. We use Hendrick’s.
• Ice.
• Fresh mint sprig for garnish (optional).

1. Place a handful of ice in the martini shaker.

2. Cut the orange in half and thoroughly squeeze one half into the shaker.

3. Add apricot brandy and gin, and give it a vigorous shake.

4. Set the shaker down and let rest for a few minutes until condensation forms on the outside of the shaker. Basically you’re just making sure the mixture is chilled.

5. Pour into a martini glass, garnish with a mint sprig if you’re feeling fancy, and sip away!