Tips for grocery shopping in Sorrento, Italy

Sorrento, a picturesque coastal town in southern Italy’s Campania region, is a true gem overlooking the Bay of Naples. It is renowned for its stunning views and scents of sea, lemons, and delicious food. Italy’s culinary reputation is well-earned, and you’ll experience it at every turn in Sorrento.
What makes Italian cuisine so special is the quality of ingredients, many of which are sourced locally from the vibrant vegetable and fruit markets, fishmongers, and butchers. These are the same fresh ingredients that chefs use to prepare the dishes you enjoy in restaurants. And the good news? You can find them in local grocery stores, too.
Of course, cooking isn’t usually on your agenda when you’re on vacation. You’re more likely to enjoy local restaurants serving perfect pizzas, fresh seafood, and other traditional dishes. However, after days of dining out, you might crave something more personal—a homemade meal or at least something simple.
Visiting a grocery store in Sorrento isn’t just about grabbing supplies—it’s an experience. It offers a glimpse into daily life and deepens your connection to the local culture. Whether picking up fresh produce, artisanal cheese, or specialty items, grocery shopping in Sorrento can be a delightful part of your Italian adventure, even if you’re not planning to fill a fridge.

Here’s what you need to know to make the most of it!

Supermarkets:

Sorrento’s supermarkets may not be enormous, but they’re packed with everything you need, from fresh produce to wine, at affordable prices. Among the eight leading supermarkets, including Pollio, Conad, Cassal, Netto, Despair, Craig, Carrefour, and Dodeca, my personal favorite is Pollio. It’s a treasure trove, offering everything from everyday essentials to a great selection of international food products.

Veggies counters at Pollio Supermarket Sorrento

However, while supermarkets are convenient, many locals prefer to shop at specialty stores for their daily needs. Sorrento’s charm comes alive in these small, family-run shops, where friendly vendors sell top-notch products and often give cooking tips or suggest the freshest items of the day.

• Panetteria (Bakery): More than just bread! Grab freshly baked pizzas, lasagna, biscuits, and Italian street food that will satisfy any craving.

• Macelleria (Butcher): High-quality meats, often with suggestions on how to prepare them.

• Fruttivendolo (Greengrocer): The go-to spot for fresh fruits and vegetables.

• Pescheria (Fishmonger): Fresh seafood with plenty of tips for making authentic local dishes.

Small tips: at the bakery store or Panetteria, aside from the many types of bread, you can find some other freshly baked products to satisfy your food cravings, such as small pizzas and local fried food specials, dry biscuits, oven-baked lasagna and pasta, and different variety of Italian street food.

Visiting specialty shops in Sorrento is a fun experience, and I will discuss the details in my next post.

Small Grocery Stores (Alimentari/Salumeria):

While wandering Sorrento, you’ll see plenty of Alimentari or Salumeria shops. They offer a variety of essentials—dairy, frozen goods, personal items, and fresh foods. Many of these places will also whip up a delicious Panini on the spot—think prosciutto, mozzarella, and focaccia—perfect for a quick bite with a cold beer or soda.

Salumeria on Corso Italia In Sorrento

Delis (Gastronomia):

If you’re after gourmet delights, head to a Gastronomia. These shops offer excellent cuts of meat, cheeses, olives, high-end condiments, and freshly prepared hot dishes like grilled meats and parmigiana di melanzane.

Gastronomia Via degli Aranci

Gastronomia in Sorrento

Pastry Shop (Pasticceria):

Every trip to Sorrento is complete with indulging in a Pasticceria. Italian pastries are famous for a reason, and you won’t be disappointed if you crave a sfogliatella, cannoli, or a rum-soaked babà. Sunday family lunches traditionally end with a tray of these small pastries, and most patisseries are open on Sunday mornings to cater to this delicious tradition.

Pasticceria in Sorrento

Gelateria:

And, of course, there’s Gelato—the iconic Italian dessert. Whether you’re a gelato connoisseur or a first-timer, you’re in for a treat. My favorite gelato spot in Sorrento?     Gelateria David. On a hot day, nothing beats a scoop (or two).

Sorrento Markets:

For a more rustic shopping experience, visit Sorrento’s open-air market on Via San Renato every Tuesday morning. It’s a lively place to pick up fresh farm produce, household goods, and even great fashion finds at bargain prices.

Here are some useful phrases to know when buying groceries in Italy:

Bottle of water – Bottiglia di acqua

Coffee -Caffè

Sandwich- Panino

Prosciutto Baked or backed Ham-Prosciutto cotto

Prosciutto raw or Raw Ham- Prosciutto crudo

Milk- Latte

Salami- Salame

Cheese- Formaggio

Fruits-Frutta

Veggies- Verdura

Meat- Carne

Chicken- Pollo

Bread- Pane

Olives-Olive

Eggs-Uova

Sugar-Zucchero

Salt-Sale

Is this good?-E Buono?

Thanks- Grazie

Good Morning- Buongiorno

Have a nice day – Buona giornata

Good evening- Buonasera

Good Bye – Arrivederci or Ciao

Finally, always check the opening hours for the stores in Italy; during the hot summer days, most stores, except the chain’s supermarkets, remain closed for an afternoon break from 1:30 p.m. to 5:00 p.m.

Sorrento’s shopping scene is a beautiful mix of modern convenience and old-world charm. Whether stocking up at Pollio or diving into local traditions at the specialty shops, shopping here is an adventure for all your senses.

Enjoy your stay in Sorrento.

If this guide has made your stay a little sweeter, share it with friends or leave a comment—I’d love to hear your thoughts!

Love

Svetlana

Related post:

Which foods are Sorrento known for?