Rifugio Dei Mele — Restaurant in Positano

This place was recommended to us by our Airbnb host. We’ve been living in different parts of Italy for a month and this is definitely one of our favorite meals. From beginning to end it was an incredible experience. The shuttle will pick you up from your hotel or closest drivable location (for us it was Grada Nuova bus stop). Then the shuttle takes you much higher up the cliff where a restaurant staffmember will guide you on a 5 min walk to the restaurant.

We arrived at 6:30 when they opened and were lucky enough to watch a beautiful sunset behind the cliffs. We had the special truffle pasta, the risotto, and the catch of the day (sea bass). Everything was delicious and light (homemade truffle pasta was definitely a favorite), and the staff was kind enough to split everything in half and bring us two plates for each dish as my husband and I were sharing everything. After we received a dish, the servers would regularly come by to check in on us and ask us how everything is. Don’t skip out on dessert!! They gave a “pre-dessert” dish with chocolate mousse and other things I’m not totally sure of but it was fantastic. That, the tiramisu, and the orzo desserts were the highlights of the night.

It started getting chilly after the sun went down so they turned on the heaters and even gave some people blankets! I felt comfortable and warm and tended to, like I was being served in someone’s home. This place was definitely out of the way, but so exclusive, romantic, and away from the loud touristy spots that have average food/service, and they make it very easy by also dropping you off after your meal. This place was top notch, and really deserves to call themselves fine dining with amazing food...

Be aware that the restaurant is a 20-minute cab (or shuttle, which the restaurant provides when available) ride up winding and narrow roads from the center of Positano. (Going there for dinner in the dark was a bit scarry. Cab fare one way cost us 50 euros. Thank goodness the restaurant was kind enough to squeeze two of us into its shuttle van for the return trip.) First the positives: the setting is spectacular atop a mountainside with what would be a stunning view during the day. Service is impeccable. Price is reasonable. Local wines by the glass were amazing. Great vibe overall. Outstanding desserts. The negative: Very far from central Positano and the restaurant is extremely hard to find. (Make sure someone from the restaurant comes to get you once you arrive in the vacinity. You have to walk down a flight of stairs and navigate alleys in a neighborhood not accessible by car. Daunting at night. Fortunately, a very nice waitress came just in time to guide us to the restaurant.) The menu is quite limited. Food is mediocre and uninspired despite attempts to be modern and stylish. We were surprised that an area known for seafood did not have octupus on the menu. We were also hoping for more traditional Italian food. Overall, go for the experience and ambience, but don't expect culinary amazement. Most patrons...

Rifugio dei Mele is an absolute gem in Positano! The location alone is worth the visit — perched above the coast with breathtaking views that make you pause and soak it all in. Watching the sun set from here feels like something out of a dream. The atmosphere is elegant yet warm, making it perfect for a romantic dinner, a special celebration, or simply treating yourself to an unforgettable meal.

The service was outstanding — the staff were not only professional and attentive, but also genuinely kind and welcoming, which made the whole experience feel relaxed and enjoyable. Every detail was thoughtfully taken care of, from the warm greeting to the pacing of the courses.

As for the food, it was absolutely delicious. Each dish was crafted with care, beautifully presented, and full of flavor. The ingredients tasted fresh and high quality, and you can tell the chef puts passion into the menu. From start to finish, every bite was memorable.

This is more than just a place to eat — it’s an experience that combines incredible scenery, top-notch service, and excellent cuisine. If you’re in Positano or exploring the Path of the Gods, don’t miss the chance to stop here. It truly made our trip even more special, and I would recommend it to anyone looking for an unforgettable dining experience on the...