La Trattoria El Faro Blanco

Description:

• Isolated at the top of a hill on the island's northernmost tip, this popular restaurant affords unbeatable vistas. A 360-degree scan takes in the expansive sea, windswept sand dunes, an emerald golf course, and the California Lighthouse. Just steps from the much-photographed beacon, the restaurant's original structure (which has since expanded) once housed the local lighthouse keeper, and the interior dining rooms retain a residential coziness. Seating on the terrace features unobstructed views of the sea. The fare covers a full range of Italian cuisine, with a good helping of Neapolitan specialties. Baby octopus, cooked with garlic, tomato, olive oil, and parsley, is a good way to kick things off. For a seafood main course, try grouper encrusted with pistachios, pink peppercorns, and Parmesan. Carnivores should try the excellent osso buco or filet mignon with porcini mushrooms. Desserts include tiramisu and pears poached in red wine. The outdoor bar is a favorite stop for golfers. Pizza is served between 3 and 6pm.

• © Frommer's 2012