La Cantina di Miky, Monterosso, Italy: A Charming Seaside Dining Experience in Cinque Terre

La Cantina di Miky sits overlooking the beautiful beach of Monterosso in Italy’s Cinque Terre. Run by Manuel and Christine of the DeFina family, this charming restaurant offers a relaxed setting where you can enjoy local flavors while taking in the seaside views. The restaurant features carefully selected ingredients from nearby producers, creating authentic dishes that showcase the best of the region.

The wine selection at La Cantina is impressive, offering both local varieties and international options. You’ll find everything from small local producers to champagne, whiskey, and craft beers. This cozy spot is related to the Michelin-recognized Miky restaurant just a block away, giving you a taste of quality dining in a more casual atmosphere.

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La Cantina Di Miky

La Cantina Di Miky is a charming Italian restaurant nestled along the beachfront in Monterosso al Mare, one of the five villages of Cinque Terre. This family-run establishment combines tradition with innovation, offering you a true taste of the region in a casual, welcoming atmosphere.

When you visit, you’ll enjoy spectacular sea views while sampling their specialty seafood dishes and homemade pasta. The restaurant prides itself on using high-quality, local ingredients – truly embracing the “km zero” philosophy that showcases the freshest flavors of the Five Lands.

The menu balances traditional Italian cuisine with creative new offerings from their chef. Whether you’re in the mood for classic seafood preparations or something more innovative, La Cantina Di Miky delivers exceptional flavors that represent the culinary heritage of this stunning coastal region.

You’ll find this restaurant to be a versatile spot – perfect for a relaxed lunch after exploring Monterosso or for enjoying aperitifs and tapas as the sun sets over the Mediterranean. The youthful energy and passion of generations of restaurant experience create a dining experience that’s both authentic and fresh.

Rating: 4.2 (887 reviews)
Location: Via Fegina, 90, 19016 Monterosso al Mare SP, Italy
Contact: +39 0187 802525
Website: Visit Website

History of La Cantina di Miky

La Cantina di Miky has become a beloved culinary destination in Monterosso al Mare, with roots deeply connected to the Defina family’s passion for Ligurian cuisine.

Founding and Early Years

The story of La Cantina di Miky begins with Michele (Miky) and Simonetta Defina, who started their culinary journey in 1980. They established their first restaurant in the sunny heart of Cinque Terre, specifically in Monterosso al Mare. This charming coastal town, known for its beautiful beaches and colorful buildings, provided the perfect backdrop for their culinary vision.

The original Miky Restaurant quickly gained recognition for its exceptional seafood dishes and authentic Ligurian cuisine. The Defina family focused on simple yet flavorful food, using fresh local ingredients that showcased the region’s culinary traditions.

As their reputation grew, locals and tourists alike were drawn to the restaurant’s warm hospitality and outstanding food.

Evolution Over Time

As the years passed, the Defina family expanded their culinary footprint in Monterosso. La Cantina di Miky emerged as a second venue, managed by Miky and Simonetta’s son Manuel and his wife Christine. This newer establishment offered a more casual dining experience while maintaining the family’s commitment to quality.

La Cantina di Miky developed its own identity with a modern beachside setting. You can enjoy authentic pasta and local seafood dishes while taking in breathtaking views of Monterosso Beach. The restaurant also added aperitivo plates to its menu, perfect for relaxed evening dining.

Today, while the original Miky Restaurant has earned Michelin recognition, La Cantina sits just a block away, offering its own special dining experience. The two establishments represent different generations of the same family’s dedication to Ligurian cuisine.

Cuisine and Specialties

La Cantina di Miky offers authentic Ligurian and Northern-Italian cuisine with a focus on fresh seafood. The restaurant prides itself on using local ingredients while accommodating various dietary preferences including vegetarian and vegan options.

Signature Dishes

The fried anchovies are a must-try starter at La Cantina di Miky. This local specialty showcases the restaurant’s commitment to traditional Ligurian seafood preparation. You’ll find the seafood dishes are beautifully prepared and perfectly cooked, highlighting the fresh catch of the day.

The restaurant serves both lunch and dinner, with each meal offering a chance to experience their renowned seafood specialties. Their antipasti selection is impressive, though you should note it may arrive alongside your main course in true Italian fashion.

Pair your meal with a delicious bottle of Italian wine to enhance the flavors of your seafood dishes. The restaurant’s dedication to quality is evident in every bite.

Local Ingredients

La Cantina di Miky embraces the rich culinary traditions of the Cinque Terre region by sourcing fresh, local ingredients. The seafood comes straight from the Mediterranean waters that surround Monterosso, ensuring maximum freshness and authentic flavor.

The menu highlights healthy Mediterranean cuisine that’s characteristic of the Ligurian region. The use of local olive oils, herbs, and produce creates dishes that truly represent the area’s gastronomic heritage.

For beverage enthusiasts, the restaurant offers local beer on draft alongside an impressive selection of champagne, grappa, whiskey, and international beers. This makes La Cantina di Miky an excellent choice for an aperitif or cocktail before your meal.

The combination of fresh local ingredients and traditional cooking methods delivers an authentic taste of Monterosso that you won’t soon forget.