Anyone know several worthwhile restaurants in Naples itself? Looking for something local and authentic and not fancy. I checked the restaurant section but reviews by travelers were few.<BR><BR>Same question for the island of Ischia...<BR><BR>

Osteria sa Carmela, at via Conte di Ruvo near the Piazza Bellini was fabulous and authentic - recommended to me by the desk clerk at my albergo. It is charming but not fancy, (and there is no a/c.) About 8-10 tables, with very reasonable prices; 3 courses last October with house wine came to less than $25 USD. <BR><BR>You'll need at least a bit of Italian, as there is no written menu. The patrone is also your waiter; he will tell you what is available that night. Simply prepared, beautifully fresh seafood is the primary focus.<BR><BR>Pizzaria Lombardi, near the Pizza del Gesu has good pizza and delicious steamed mussels which were just in a saltwater broth.<BR><BR>Do not miss the sfoliatelli at Pasticcieria Scaturcio (Piazza San Domenico) - the most delicious flaky pastry filled with ricotta and a touch of orange rind that is a Niapolitan specialty. <BR><BR>Enjoy! I will definitely return....<BR><BR>

Eek - wish they had spell-check on this thing (I'm a good speller but a lousy typist.) <BR><BR>That would be DA Carmela and PIAZZA del Gesu.<BR> <BR>All places mentioned are in Naples; I've not yet been to Ischia.<BR><BR>

In Ischia, I would recommend La Floreana in Serrara. It is just below the top of Mt. Epomeo, overlooking St. Angelo---breath-taking! I believe the "scenic overlook" point is called the Belvedere. La Floreana has a fabulous restaruant upstairs; you can sit inside or outside. It's not fancy---just great food and a pleasant atmosphere. The owner speaks 5 languages, including English. On the street level, they have a caf&egrave;. I also had a friend recommend the restaurant at La Rodontella in Panza. We just ran out of time to try it. The Calise Bakery is also very nice for an espresso and a sweet treat. A little trendy, but beautiful.<BR>Ischia is like an hidden treasure. (Everyone always talks about Capri.) My family and I went to Italy last year and included a week on Ischia. This year (less than 7 weeks!) we are going to stay on Ischia for the whole two weeks and do day-trips from there.<BR>Check out www.ischiaonline.com, too.<BR>Buon viaggio!

My husband and I received this recommendation from a longtime resident of Naples: Trattoria Dell'Oca, Via S. Terese a Chaia 11, Angolo Via Bausan. A pretty place with ochre color walls, raffia seats, table clothes, excellent food, VERY popular with the locals. We were staying at the Parteno and walked there for dinner. They open at eight. The only minor problem I had was the menu is handwritten, so that, coupled with my very rudimentary Italian made ordering a little tricky. I just went with "del mare" and never was disappointed. I think we ate there three nights. <BR><BR>M.

To Alba (or any other Ischia traveler),<BR>I will have one full day to spend on Ischia, what would you recommend? Have you been to any of the thermal spas? Thanks!

Nutella--<BR>If you're interested in history (even a little!) go see the Castello Aragonese. During the 14th century it was the cultural, political and spiritual center of Ischia. Today, it has great views and beautiful trees and flowers. If you like gardens, go to the Giardini La Mortella. It was "built" inside of a gigantic stone quarry and has over 1,000 rare and exotic plants. It is also a study center for young, gifted musicians. Another choice is to hike up to the top of Mt. Epomeo. Last year, we rode in a 4WD to the top; this year, we'll hike. The view is spectacular. There is a restaurant and a church (!) at the top, too. As for the spas, I didn't go last year, but will this time. My friend that recommended LaRodontella went to the Poseidon Gardens and said it was fabulous. <BR>By the way, if you're looking for souveniers, Ischia is known for its lemon and lime products, olive oil, local wines and ceramics. (I know, what place in Italy ISN'T known for its olive oil and wines!!)<BR>Have fun on your trip!

Thanks Alba, I've noted your recommendations!<BR>You have a great trip too, and please post your experiences here when you return.