Where to eat in Ischia: sunset dinner and fresh seafood in Forio
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Where to eat in Ischia: sunset dinner and fresh seafood in Forio
There are moments that stay with you long after a holiday ends. A sunset dinner in Ischia is one of them.
The island of Ischia, in the Gulf of Naples, is known for its thermal spas, volcanic landscapes and authentic Mediterranean cuisine. But what many visitors only discover when they arrive is that the real magic happens at the table — especially when that table faces the sea, just as the sun begins to set.
Why Ischia is perfect for a sunset dinner
Ischia faces west. This means that every evening the coastline transforms into a natural stage for one of the most beautiful sunsets in the Mediterranean. The light turns golden, the sea grows calm and the colours shift from orange to deep red before the stars appear.
The best places to enjoy this spectacle are along the coast of Forio, a small town on the western side of the island. Forio is less crowded than Ischia Porto, more authentic, and home to some of the best restaurants on the island.
What to eat in Ischia: fresh fish and tradition
Ischian cuisine has its roots in both the sea and the land. Locally caught fresh fish is the foundation of almost every meal. Raw seafood platters are one of the most loved experiences: oysters, red prawns and sea urchins served on ice, with all the authentic flavour of the Mediterranean.
But the dish that truly defines the island is coniglio all'ischitana — rabbit cooked in a traditional terracotta pot with white wine, tomatoes, aromatic herbs and local peppers. It is a recipe passed down from generation to generation, and tasting it is one of the most authentic experiences the island has to offer.
Other dishes not to miss in Ischia:
- Spaghetti alle vongole (spaghetti with clams)
- Grilled octopus with lemon and olive oil
- Mixed fried seafood
- Pezzogna — the local sea bream, simply grilled
Pair everything with a glass of Biancolella, the white wine produced from Ischia's volcanic vineyards. Light, mineral and perfect with fish.
Paccheri Francesco: the iconic dish of Gabbiano Beach
Some dishes are born from a story. Paccheri Francesco were created twenty years ago by grandfather Francesco, and have since become the symbol of Gabbiano Beach. A generous pasta format, dressed with fresh fish, prawns, cherry tomatoes and a drizzle of olive oil — but the real difference is made by patience and care: a sauce worked slowly, well-bound, complete in every bite. This is not just a pasta dish. It is the story of a family that puts its heart into everything it cooks.
Where to eat in Forio: Gabbiano Beach on Citara Beach
If you are looking for a restaurant by the sea in Forio, Gabbiano Beach is one of the few places on the island where the experience goes beyond a simple meal. The restaurant is located directly on Citara Beach, with tables set up on a deck facing directly onto the sand and a panoramic terrace overlooking the open sea.
The kitchen has been run by the same family for generations, starting with Nonna Elena who founded it, and carried on today by Gianfranco, Maria and Francesco. Every dish is prepared with fresh, local ingredients and the care that only a family kitchen can offer.
The menu changes with the seasons but always includes the best daily catch, raw seafood platters, spaghetti with clams, the classic coniglio all'ischitana and of course Paccheri Francesco — the house's iconic dish, born twenty years ago with grandfather Francesco and still the most loved by our guests today.
The atmosphere is intimate and romantic, perfect for a couple looking for a special evening or a group of friends wanting to enjoy a long summer night by the sea.
How to book at Gabbiano Beach
Reservations are recommended, especially in summer.
📞 Phone: +39 081 908 019 💬 WhatsApp: +39 339 447 8864 ✉️ Email: ristorantegabbianobeach@gmail.com
Opening hours: Monday–Sunday, 12:00–16:00 and 19:00–23:30
How to reach Forio from Ischia Porto
From Ischia Porto, Forio is about 20 minutes away by car or taxi. Local buses connect the two towns regularly. If you arrive by ferry from Naples or Pozzuoli, ask your accommodation for the best route to reach the western coast and Citara Beach.
Gabbiano Beach – Via Giovanni Mazzella 113, 80075 Forio, Ischia