High above the bustle of Capri’s famous Piazzetta, a different island experience awaits—one that celebrates authenticity, quiet elegance, and culinary artistry. Hidden in the tranquil Piano delle Noci district, Da Tonino has, since 1993, embodied the refinement of Capri’s gastronomic heritage. Founded by Chef Antonino Aprea and now helmed by his sons, Salvatore and Gennaro, this family-run establishment has grown into one of the island’s most esteemed dining addresses, recognized year after year in the Michelin Guide.
An Oasis Beyond the Crowds
The decision to open away from the island’s glittering center was intentional. Antonino Aprea envisioned Da Tonino as a retreat—an oasis where guests could savor the essence of Capri without distraction. A short walk from the main square leads visitors to a peaceful setting where views, fragrances, and the rhythm of the landscape create the perfect introduction to the restaurant’s philosophy: cuisine that respects raw materials, honors tradition, and elevates every ingredient with meticulous care.
From the very beginning, Antonino anchored his menus in Campania’s “earth” traditions—game dishes such as rabbit and quail that are deeply tied to Capri’s history. Over time, this vision evolved, as his sons began to shape the future of Da Tonino with new energy, contemporary techniques, and global inspiration.
The Next Generation: A Family Legacy
Today, the Aprea brothers ensure that their father’s legacy thrives. Gennaro curates the restaurant’s exceptional wine cellar, carved directly into the rock, which ranks among the most extensive in Capri with over 2,200 labels. From rare vintages coveted by collectors to hidden gems from small artisanal producers, the cellar reflects both prestige and discovery.
In the kitchen, Chef Salvatore Aprea carries forward the family name with a style that marries heritage with modern finesse. Trained alongside culinary luminaries including Heinz Beck, Valentino Marcattilii, and Oliver Glowig, Salvatore has returned to Capri with a refined perspective.
Signature Dishes with a Contemporary Touch
The menu, which shifts three times a year to mirror the seasons, is a testament to both discipline and creativity. Signatures include tortelli cacio e pepe with mussels and lime—a dish that has become emblematic of the restaurant’s style, combining Roman tradition with Mediterranean freshness. Another highlight is the little Caprese dessert, reinvented with a molten Chuao chocolate center, Madagascar vanilla, and delicate vanilla ice cream. Meanwhile, the black piglet, served with garnishes that change with the season—perhaps friarielli greens, sweet potato, or smoky barbecue sauce—demonstrates Salvatore’s ability to reinterpret tradition with a modern lens.
Everything is made in-house, from breads to pastas and desserts, with vegetables sourced directly from the family’s own garden. Guests with dietary needs are also thoughtfully considered, with vegetarian and gluten-free options seamlessly integrated into the experience.
A Seasonal Gem
Like the island itself, Da Tonino follows a seasonal rhythm, opening shortly before Easter and closing after early November. Each winter brings a period of rest, renovation, and renewal, ensuring that every season feels both familiar and fresh.
Recognition has long followed the restaurant—it has been a fixture in the Michelin Guide for many years. While Chef Salvatore acknowledges that seeing a coveted Michelin symbol by the restaurant’s name would be a dream, he insists the true honor lies elsewhere.
A Destination Dining Experience
For travelers seeking an authentic yet elevated culinary experience, Da Tonino is more than a restaurant—it is a destination. From the walk through Capri’s lesser-known paths to the unveiling of dishes that speak of both past and present, every moment feels curated yet effortless. With its Michelin recognition, extraordinary wine cellar, and the Aprea family’s unwavering commitment to excellence, Da Tonino captures the spirit of Capri in its most refined form.
Address: Via Dentecale, 14, 80073 Capri NA, Italy
Reservation: +39 081 837 6718