Best Restaurants in Lecce

Dinette

$$ Lungomare Terra D'Otranto, 29, 73028, Otranto

Italian Mediterranean Casual Dining

Located in the charming coastal town of Otranto, Dinette is a modern Italian restaurant that combines Italian cuisine's simplicity and a contemporary dining experience. Known for its vibrant setting, delightful menu, and inviting ambience, Dinette has garnered recognition as a must-visit spot in the region. Dinette's menu celebrates Italian culinary traditions reimagined with a contemporary flair. The kitchen uses only fresh and locally sourced ingredients to create an enticing variety of dishes. Diners can expect to indulge in various offerings, from traditional antipasti platters to handmade pasta dishes and fresh seafood. Signature dishes include the 'Risotto with sea urchin and lemon zest,' 'Fettuccine with white ragu of wild boar,' and the 'Grilled octopus with potato cream.' For dessert, diners should not miss out on the 'Tiramisu alla Dinette,' a delightful reinterpretation of the classic Italian dessert. Dinette's interior is a fusion of modern design elements and traditional Italian charm. The dining room is spacious and filled with natural light, featuring sleek furniture, contemporary artwork, and a vibrant colour scheme that lends an upbeat vibe to the space.

Ristorante Fedele

$$ Via Doppia Croce, 55, 73053, Santa Maria di Leuca

Italian Mediterranean Premium Casual

Ristorante Fedele is a renowned culinary establishment in the southernmost tip of Italy, Santa Maria di Leuca. Famous for its charming blend of authentic Italian dishes and fresh seafood, Ristorante Fedele is a must-visit destination for any gastronome visiting the region. With a menu deeply rooted in Puglian culinary tradition, Ristorante Fedele offers a range of delicacies that marry local produce with sea-fresh offerings. The chef at Fedele takes pride in sourcing ingredients locally, and the menu changes based on seasonal availability. Signature dishes include the 'Seafood Risotto,' 'Fettuccine with Lobster,' and the 'Grilled Mix of Local Fish.' Carnivores are not forgotten, with meat-based dishes such as the 'Lamb with Rosemary' equally popular. The dessert menu, too, is delightful, featuring classics like 'Pasticciotto Leccese,' a traditional Puglian dessert with cream filling. Ristorante Fedele is the epitome of classic Italian charm. Its rustic yet elegant interior features wooden furniture, warm lighting, and walls adorned with local artwork.

Mattia Cordella - Cucina Di Mare

$$$ Località Ciardo, 73040, Santa Maria di Leuca

Italian Fine dining Elegant & Chic

Situated in the enchanting region of Santa Maria di Leuca, Mattia Cordella - Cucina di Mare offers an authentic, gourmet dining experience focused on the fruits of the sea. Known for its artistic approach to traditional coastal dishes, the restaurant is a destination for seafood lovers and culinary explorers. Cucina di Mare is celebrated for its sophisticated seafood menu, where chef Mattia Cordella creatively reimagines traditional marine cuisine. Famed for his innovative cooking style, Cordella presents a menu rich in flavour and creative presentation, where every dish tells a story. Popular dishes include 'Carpaccio of Red Shrimp with Orange and Fennel,' 'Spaghetti with Sea Urchin and Bottarga,' and 'Grilled Octopus with Capers and Olive Oil.' Not to be outdone, the dessert menu offers unexpected delights like the 'Olive Oil and Lemon Cake.' The atmosphere of Mattia Cordella - Cucina di Mare mirrors the restaurant's culinary philosophy: a perfect blend of tradition and innovation. The dining room is modern and chic, with clean lines, ambient lighting, and nautical artwork that nods to the restaurant's marine focus.

Ristorante Santa Maria

$$$ Lungomare C. Colombo, 73040, Santa Maria di Leuca

Italian Mediterranean Premium Casual

Ristorante Santa Maria, located in the charming coastal town of Santa Maria di Leuca, is an iconic establishment that promises a delightful gastronomic journey through Italian and Mediterranean cuisine. Its emphasis on locally sourced ingredients and traditional methods ensures an authentic taste experience. Ristorante Santa Maria is renowned for its classic Italian and Mediterranean offerings, specialising in seafood. A seasonal menu provides the freshest produce and seafood from the local markets daily. Favourites among the patrons include 'Paccheri ai Frutti di Mare' (Paccheri pasta with seafood), 'Fritto Misto' (mixed fried seafood), and 'Branzino alla Griglia' (grilled sea bass). Meat lovers aren't left out, with dishes like 'Ossobuco di Vitello con Risotto allo Zafferano' (Veal Ossobuco with Saffron Risotto) available. Try the 'Tiramisu,' a house favourite, or the 'Cannoli,' a Sicilian speciality for dessert. An extensive wine list featuring local and national labels perfectly complements the rich and varied menu. Outdoor seating offers stunning views of the beautiful Adriatic Sea, adding to the enchanting dining experience. The staff is attentive and knowledgeable, providing top-notch service and insightful recommendations.

Sacrestia Restauran

$$$ Vico Alessandro Volta, 1, 73040, Santa Maria di Leuca

Italian Mediterranean Casual Dining Family Style

Sacrestia Restaurant is a premier culinary destination in the coastal town of Santa Maria di Leuca. Famous for its refined, authentic Italian dishes, the restaurant is a haven for food enthusiasts seeking to explore the flavours of traditional Italian cuisine with a modern twist. The menu at Sacrestia Restaurant is a symphony of Italian classics and innovative recipes, all prepared with an emphasis on local, fresh, and seasonal ingredients. Seafood holds a prominent place on the menu, given the restaurant's coastal location, with dishes like 'Paccheri alla Pescatora' (Paccheri with mixed seafood) and 'Frutti di Mare alla Griglia' (grilled seafood platter) stealing the show. Meat options aren't overlooked, with offerings like 'Tagliata di Manzo' (sliced beef steak) and 'Cotoletta alla Milanese' (Milanese-style breaded veal cutlet). For dessert, guests are often tempted by the house 'Tiramisu' or 'Panna Cotta al Frutto della Passione' (Passion Fruit Panna Cotta). A hand-picked selection of local and regional wines complements the dishes beautifully.

Torri Dell'Acqua Restaurant

$$$ Via Dante Alighieri, 8, 73040, Santa Maria di Leuca

Italian Mediterranean Premium Casual

An ancient rainwater collection tower transformed into an elegant restaurant: the Water Towers is a building of historical importance and an excellent restaurant in Santa Maria di Leuca. A story made up of upheavals and renovations…changes that have seen the structure become what it is today, the Water Towers: an exceptional location, developed on several levels, which leads you to experience more than a simple dinner, but a real own experience! Take a seat at the Water Towers and let yourself be moved! The flagship of the Torri dell'Acqua restaurant is undoubtedly its panoramic terrace: dining on top of the towers, tickled by a light breeze and with an incredible view of Santa Maria di Leuca, is priceless! A small gem of the Torri dell'Acqua restaurant is the Tavernetta: wonderful with the classic barrel vaults in living stone and its warm tones that exclusivity the environment. Le Torri all'Acqua is a beautiful and particular structure with an excellent culinary proposal. The creations of the chef of the restaurant in Leuca include dishes based on highly fresh fish and exquisite land specialities, all accompanied by an excellent selection of wines: a real taste experience!

Calura Leuca

$$$ Via Fratelli Cairoli, 22/23/26, 73040, Santa Maria di Leuca

Italian Mediterranean Casual Dining Family Style

Calura Leuca is a highly regarded dining spot nestled in the picturesque seaside town of Santa Maria di Leuca. Renowned for its inventive, contemporary spin on Italian and Mediterranean classics, it is a must-visit location for epicureans looking to sample culinary creativity in a breathtaking coastal setting. The food at Calura Leuca is a celebration of Italian and Mediterranean cuisine, elevated with an inventive, contemporary touch. Emphasizing the freshest locally sourced seafood, meats, and produce, the menu continually changes with the seasons to offer the most vibrant flavours. Popular dishes include a variety of homemade pasta, such as 'Linguine con Aragosta' (Linguine with Lobster), and creative seafood plates like 'Carpaccio di Polpo' (Octopus Carpaccio). Meat lovers aren't forgotten, with offerings such as 'Carré di Agnello alla Brace' (Grilled Rack of Lamb). The 'Cannolo Decontructed', a modern take on the classic Sicilian cannoli, is a crowd-pleaser for dessert. Calura Leuca combines modern elegance with a rustic charm to create a warm and inviting atmosphere. Inside, the decor combines rustic wood elements with contemporary design, balancing traditional Italian charm and modern elegance.

Leucalta

$$$ SS275, 73040, Santa Maria di Leuca

Italian Fine dining Elegant & Chic Pizzeria

Nestled in the heart of the idyllic town of Santa Maria di Leuca, Leucalta Pizzeria e Ristorante is a popular spot for locals and visitors alike. Offering a blend of traditional Italian dishes and innovative new flavours, Leucalta provides a charming and cosy ambience in which guests can enjoy the authentic taste of Italy. Leucalta's culinary offering focuses primarily on traditional Italian, specifically Puglian cuisine, with a distinct emphasis on pizzas and seafood. Their wood-fired pizzas, made with fresh, locally-sourced ingredients and dough allowed to rise for at least 24 hours, are popular among patrons. Popular pizza options range from the classic Margherita to inventive pies topped with fresh seafood or local cheeses. The seafood at Leucalta, much of which is caught locally, is a highlight of their menu. Dishes such as "Fritto Misto" (Mixed Fried Seafood) and "Linguine ai Frutti di Mare" (Seafood Linguine) showcase the bounty of Santa Maria di Leuca's surrounding waters. To finish, guests are encouraged to try a local dessert such as the "Pasticiotto Leccese," a traditional pastry filled with cream.

Vento Bar Restaurant & Fish

$$$ Via Cosimo Albano, 20, 73010, Porto Cesareo

Italian Mediterranean Premium Casual

Situated in the picturesque coastal town of Porto Cesareo, Vento Bar Restaurant & Fish is a gastronomic jewel that promises an unforgettable culinary journey. Renowned for its exceptional seafood and romantic seaside setting, this restaurant offers a dining experience that perfectly embodies the essence of Italian coastal living. Vento Bar Restaurant & Fish takes immense pride in its menu, emphasising locally sourced seafood and traditional recipes with a contemporary twist. Signature dishes include fresh oysters, linguini with lobster, and grilled seabream, all caught locally and prepared with simplicity to let the quality of the ingredients shine. For those with a penchant for land-based fare, the menu also features an array of meat dishes such as grilled steak and a rack of lamb. The restaurant also offers a range of delicious vegetarian options. With a prime location overlooking the Ionian Sea, the atmosphere at Vento Bar Restaurant & Fish is one of its most compelling features. The dining space is elegantly designed with a nautical theme that perfectly complements its seaside setting. The outdoor terrace is trendy, offering diners unobstructed views of the sea and the opportunity to dine under the stars.

La Medusa Restaurant

$$$ Via Silvio Pellico, 17, 73010, Porto Cesareo

Italian Mediterranean Fine dining Elegant & Chic

Situated in the heart of the charming town of Porto Cesareo, La Medusa Restaurant embodies the region's culinary heritage and picturesque atmosphere. Known for its sumptuous seafood and warm hospitality, La Medusa has been a beloved dining destination for locals and tourists alike. The sea takes centre stage at La Medusa through its diverse seafood offerings. Its menu is rich with freshly-caught treasures from the Ionian Sea, ensuring unparalleled quality and flavour. The restaurant's signature dishes include Seafood Risotto, Linguini with Clams, and the Grilled Mixed Seafood Platter, which brim with the sea's tastes and the kitchen's creativity. While seafood is the star, the menu also caters to non-seafood eaters with a selection of classic Italian dishes, such as pasta, risotto, and meat dishes. To cap off the meal, patrons can indulge in traditional Italian desserts, like Cannoli and Semifreddo. La Medusa Restaurant exudes a cosy, welcoming vibe that invites guests to relax and enjoy their meals. Its interiors reflect the colours and textures of the sea, with cool blue tones, warm wood accents, and subtle nautical details. A beautifully lit terrace offers a spectacular view of the town and the sea beyond, making for an enchanting dining backdrop.

Ristorante Aqua - Le Dune

$$ Via Dei Bacini, 72, 73010, Porto Cesareo

Italian Mediterranean Premium Casual Elegant & Chic

Ristorante Aqua - Le Dune in Porto Cesareo is an exquisite dining destination known for its creative seafood-centric cuisine and stunning seaside views. Its innovative culinary approach and breathtaking atmosphere have earned it a reputation as a gem in the Italian dining scene. The culinary philosophy at Ristorante Aqua - Le Dune is rooted in respect for the ocean's bounty and the rich traditions of Italian cooking. The menu showcases an array of expertly crafted seafood dishes, using only the freshest ingredients sourced from local fish markets. Standout dishes include their Crispy Sea Bass with citrus emulsion, Linguini with Lobster, and the Red Tuna Tartare with a ginger and orange dressing. The restaurant also offers a selection of traditional Italian pasta and meat dishes for those with different preferences. And, of course, no meal is complete without tasting their signature desserts, which include their delightful Pistachio Tiramisu and refreshing Lemon Sorbet. Ristorante Aqua - Le Dune boasts an elegantly contemporary setting designed to harmonize with the natural beauty surrounding it. The restaurant's interior is tastefully adorned with chic maritime accents, and the floor-to-ceiling glass windows flood the space with natural light, further enhancing the tranquil atmosphere.

Maestrale Bistrot

$$ Via Ludovico Muratori, 24, 73010, Porto Cesareo

Italian Premium Casual

Maestrale Bistrot is an exceptional culinary destination located in the picturesque town of Porto Cesareo. The restaurant is well-known for its fresh, locally-sourced cuisine, enchanting atmosphere, and dedication to providing excellent service. Embracing the spirit of authentic Italian cuisine, Maestrale Bistrot offers a menu that celebrates the seasonal, local produce and the rich flavours of the Salento region. The menu is a creative amalgamation of traditional recipes and innovative touches. A real standout is their fresh seafood, with dishes like Grilled Octopus with potato cream, Zucchini Flowers stuffed with ricotta and served on a cherry tomato coulis, and Linguine with clams, bottarga, and lemon zest. There are dishes like the succulent Lamb Chops in pistachio crust and the Beef Carpaccio with rocket and Parmigiano for meat lovers. Also, don't miss out on their delightful selection of homemade desserts, with the semifreddo and panna cotta being popular choices. The atmosphere at Maestrale Bistrot is one of relaxed elegance. The decor is tastefully done, creating a warm, welcoming ambience that pairs perfectly with the beautiful seaside location. A combination of rustic and modern elements uniquely charm the restaurant.

Il Villino

$$$ Via Umberto I, 1, 73020, Santa Cesarea Terme

European Premium Casual Elegant & Chic

Located in the picturesque coastal town of Santa Cesarea Terme, Ristorante Il Villino promises an experience that might blend Puglia's rich culinary traditions with the Adriatic Sea's freshness. "Il Villino" translates to "The Small Villa," suggesting a more intimate, possibly quaint dining setting. Seafood Selections: Given its proximity to the sea, expect a variety of seafood offerings, including fresh fish, shellfish, and other marine delights prepared in traditional Puglian styles. Regional Specialties: Puglia is known for orecchiette pasta, fava bean puree, and other regional delicacies. Fresh produce like olives, tomatoes, and artichokes might also be featured prominently. Quaint Elegance: Given the name "The Small Villa," the setting could evoke feelings of dining in a private, elegant home or villa. It might have features like tiled floors, wooden beams, and traditional decor. Seaside Vibes: Given its coastal location, there could be elements in the decor or an outdoor dining area that reference the proximity to the sea.

Kahlo Restaurant

$$$$ Via Pola, 31, 73024, Santa Cesarea Terme

Italian International Fine dining Elegant & Chic

Taking its name from the iconic Mexican artist Frida Kahlo, Ristorante Kahlo in the coastal town of Santa Cesarea Terme hints at a fusion of Italian sophistication with Mexican cuisine's vibrant, colourful, and rich flavours. Mexican Influence: The name suggests there might be Mexican-inspired dishes or flavours. Think tacos, enchiladas, or even moles, but possibly with a twist using local Italian ingredients. Italian Staples: Given the location in the Puglia region of Italy, expect dishes influenced by local ingredients such as olive oil, fresh seafood, and locally grown vegetables. There might be pasta dishes or risotto with a Mexican twist. Seafood Selections: Santa Cesarea Terme's proximity to the coast might mean focusing on seafood, possibly combined with Mexican flavours like lime, cilantro, and chilli. Eclectic and Vibrant: Drawing inspiration from Frida Kahlo's colourful life and art, the interior could be adorned with bright colours, perhaps even reproducing some of her famous works. Coastal Vibes: As it's located along the coast, the restaurant might have views of the sea or elements in the decor that remind diners of their seaside location.

Terrazza Paradiso

$$$ SP358, 73020, Santa Cesarea Terme

Italian Mediterranean Premium Casual

"Terrazza Paradiso" translates to "Paradise Terrace" in English. This suggests the restaurant might be in an elevated or picturesque setting, offering potentially stunning views. Given that Santa Cesarea Terme is a coastal town in the Puglia region, one can expect views of the Ionian Sea or beautiful coastal landscapes. Local Delicacies: In Puglia, an area known for its rich culinary tradition, diners can expect dishes prepared with olive oil, fresh seafood, and locally grown produce. Seafood Specialties: Given the coastal location, it's likely that the menu features a variety of new seafood dishes, ranging from grilled fish to seafood pasta or risotto. Panoramic Views: The name suggests a terrace with scenic views, possibly of the Ionian Sea, which could make for a romantic and serene dining setting. Mediterranean Vibes: Expect a relaxed Mediterranean atmosphere with decor that reflects the coastal surroundings, possibly with blues and whites and maybe nautical elements.

La Casa Dell'Angelo

$$$ Piazza Umberto, 4, 73030, Vignacastrisi

Italian Mediterranean Premium Casual Family Style

Located in the beautiful and small Salento village of Vignacastrisi, Casa dell'Angelo is a comfortable and welcoming restaurant where you can taste fish-based specialities. Our cuisine is inspired by the traditional Mediterranean, enriched by refined and delicious flavours and a wide selection of the best Apulian wines. Fish accompanied by vegetables and local herbs is the protagonist of every dish at "Casa dell'Angelo". The traditional Salento seafood cuisine inspires our menu: we offer classic and revisited dishes influenced by other cuisines. In the hot season, at lunchtime, we also provide some cold dishes, salads, couscous and seasonal vegetables.

Antica Pietra Filosofale

$$$ Via Giacomo Matteotti, 13, 73054, Presicce-Acquarica

Italian Mediterranean Casual Dining Family Style

Amidst the ancient charm of Presicce, known for its storied underground olive mills and labyrinthine streets, lies a dining gem that melds tradition with mystique - Antica Pietra Filosofale. This restaurant promises more than a meal; it offers a culinary journey steeped in alchemical magic and Apulian heritage. The name, reminiscent of age-old quests for transformation, hints at the restaurant's ethos: turning simple, local ingredients into culinary gold. Much like alchemists who sought the philosopher's stone, the chefs at Antica Pietra Filosofale strive to achieve perfection in every dish, fusing traditional methods with innovative twists. The restaurant's facade, with its timeworn stones and creeping vines, whispers tales from past epochs. A rustic wooden door, studded with iron and adorned with an emblem of the philosopher's stone, invites patrons into an enchanting world within. Inside, the decor harmoniously marries the arcane with the contemporary. Candle-lit alcoves, ancient manuscripts, and alchemical symbols adorn the walls, while sleek, modern furniture provides comfort and elegance. The soft glow of lanterns illuminates tables set with gleaming glassware, creating a cosy and ethereal ambience.

Trattoria Salento Curti Vecchi

$$ Piazza Giuseppe Villani, 11, 73054, Presicce-Acquarica

Italian Casual Dining

Hidden in the picturesque alleys of Presicce, a town renowned for its historic charm and architectural treasures, Trattoria Salento Curti Vecchi emerges as a culinary tribute to days long past. This authentic haven embodies the age-old traditions, flavours, and heart of the Salento region, transporting diners to the rustic courtyards and lively gatherings of yesteryears. The name "Curti Vecchi" evokes images of ancient squares where families once gathered under the Mediterranean sun, sharing tales, laughter, and home-cooked feasts. The trattoria aims to recreate this ambience, offering a meal and an experience steeped in Salentine heritage. From the outside, the restaurant boasts of typical Apulian architecture: whitewashed walls, a terracotta roof, and an entrance draped with bougainvillaea. The scent of blooming jasmine and a soft melody of traditional pizzica music gently beckon guests inward. Once inside, the decor pays homage to a bygone era. Stone walls adorned with old family portraits, handcrafted wooden tables, and vintage ceramic plates paint a vivid scene of Salento's rich past. Even the lighting, through hanging lanterns, casts a warm and nostalgic glow reminiscent of sunsets over Salentine fields.

Da Salvatore Trattoria

$$$ Via Roma, 335, 73054, Presicce-Acquarica

Italian Mediterranean Casual Dining Family Style

The luxury B&B with a swimming pool and the trattoria da Salvatore was born inside Villa Arditi in the village of Presicce, in the lower Salento near Santa Maria di Leuca. Villa Arditi is a beautiful historic residence from the early 1900s. In perfect Neoclassical style, in which its designer, the architect Luigi Carlo Arditi from Castelvetere, mainly sought the balance and symmetry of the artefacts. The four columns in Tuscan style stand on the entrance porch as if to frame the three doors from which you enter the Luxury B&B in Salento in Presicce. The restaurant is on the lower floor and the same size as the upper one. Suitable for hosting both customers of the B&B Da Salvatore and external customers and tourists who want to taste typical Salento dishes. Divided into a large room designed for small receptions and smaller rooms for those seeking greater privacy, the Da Salvatore trattoria creates the proper harmony for every need. Salvatore and Desdemona have focused everything on Salento traditions, with the guarantee of always fresh, seasonal and local products. You can taste the delicious sea and land appetizers, the famous Salento "picture," and a good choice between first courses with fresh pasta and second courses of sea and land ranging from excellent cuts of meat to horse meat in sauce to fried esperanza. All seasoned and accompanied with the best extra virgin olive oil and fresh, fragrant bread. There is a good selection of wines; you can taste the house wine and choose from some of the best wineries in Salento.

Pizzeria Core A Core

$$ Via Marche 73 Piazza Delle Regioni S.N, 73054, Presicce-Acquarica

Italian Casual Dining Fast Casual Family Style Pizzeria

In the heart of Presicce, a town celebrated for its storied past and mesmerizing beauty, a pizzeria embodies more than just the art of pizza-making; it captures the essence of heartfelt connections. Pizzeria Core a Core, translating to "Heart to Heart", is where flavours, traditions, and stories intertwine, offering a dining experience that resonates deeply with every visitor. As you approach the pizzeria, the charming allure of Presicce sets the stage. Ancient stone streets and the delicate aroma of blooming flowers in the air transport you to a world where every moment seems suspended in time. And right there, amidst this serene setting, stands Pizzeria Core a Core, its warm glow inviting you in. The establishment's facade nods to Apulian architectural traditions, with creamy hues, wooden accents, and an artfully painted signboard that displays two intertwined pizza slices forming a heart - a symbol of the eatery's ethos. Inside, rustic elegance meets contemporary design. Exposed brick walls are adorned with hand-painted murals depicting scenes of families and friends gathered around pizza ovens, sharing moments of joy and togetherness. Wooden tables, draped with checkered cloths, are set under soft ambient lighting, creating a cosy and romantic atmosphere. But the real magic happens in the open kitchen, where passionate pizzaiolos work their craft. Every pizza is a work of art, prepared with utmost dedication. Using time-honoured techniques, locally sourced ingredients, and wood-fired ovens, they create pizzas that are not just dishes but stories waiting to be savoured. Classics like 'Margherita' and 'Diavola' coexist with innovative creations inspired by the Salento region, all on a perfectly crisp and airy crust.

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