Best Restaurants in Cisternino

In the historic center of Cisternino, one of the most beautiful towns in Italy located in the heart of the characteristic Valle d'Itria is the Cucco restaurant with a connected wine shop. Surrounded by its suggestive stone walls, in a warm and relaxed atmosphere, you can taste delicious and typical plates revisited or taste a glass of wine or a glass of distillate, choosing from the proposals of the full-bodied menu. At Cucco, all the proposals are an expression of the great passion for the food and wine culture of the national territory with particular regard to the Apulian tradition.

In the soul of Cisternino, the pearl of the Itria Valley, in the unique alley of lime and flowers, you will find the Osteria Bell’Italia, a historic trattoria, now a restaurant of excellence. The simplicity and elegance of the interiors reflect the world of Patron Luano and his travels, who will welcome you with Erika to guide you on a unique culinary journey. The attention to the seasonality of the habitat and the careful choice of raw materials describe the professionalism and devotion of Chef Giuseppe "Peppino" Semeraro. The tavern proposes a wide variety of classic dishes, Mediterranean and innovative cuisine, characterized by a meticulous selection of fresh fish in the summer, directly from the ports of the local marina.

Off-Topic is a restaurant born from the commitment of chef Stefano Rauco who, after a life spent among the best cookers in Rome, has chosen to create a friendly place, where you can live the love for good food and excellent materials prime. The restaurant is located in Cisternino and mixes typical Roman and Apulian cuisine.

In the heart of Cisternino, a jewel of Apulia known for its white-washed buildings and timeless charm, lies Trattoria Bère Vecchie—a haven of authentic Apulian gastronomy. The name, hinting at old barrels and storied vintages, evokes the rich traditions that this quaint eatery stands for. At Trattoria Bère Vecchie, it's all about celebrating the flavours of Apulia, a region famed for its olive oil, robust wines, and a culinary heritage that dates back centuries. The menu is a tapestry of local ingredients—fresh seafood from the nearby Adriatic, sun-ripened tomatoes, and pasta made new every day. Each dish tells a story, from grandmother's recipes handed down through generations to modern interpretations that resonate with today's discerning palate. The ambience of Trattoria Bère Vecchie captures the essence of a traditional Italian trattoria. Rustic wooden beams, vintage wine barrels, and walls adorned with black-and-white photographs of Cisternino from yesteryears create a setting that's both cosy and nostalgic. The soft glow of lanterns and the delicate aromas wafting from the kitchen envelop guests in an atmosphere of warmth and comfort. Wine enthusiasts will delight in the trattoria's selection, a nod to its namesake. The wine list features a curated range of Apulian wines, from robust Primitivos to crisp, aromatic whites. Each bottle has been chosen to complement the menu's flavours, turning every meal into a harmonious symphony of taste.

Nestled amidst the historic lanes of Cisternino, a town adorned with white-stone beauty and ancient charm, Osteria Sant'Anna emerges as a tribute to genuine Apulian culinary traditions. Named in honour of the revered Saint Anna, this osteria captures the soulful essence of the region, promising an intimate dining experience reminiscent of a bygone era. At Osteria Sant'Anna, the flavours of Apulia take centre stage. The menu is a delightful exploration of the region's gastronomic treasures, from the famed orecchiette pasta drizzled in rich, olive-oil-based sauces to the freshest catches of the Adriatic Sea, grilled to perfection. Each dish, crafted with passion and precision, reflects the bounty of Apulia's fertile lands and azure coasts. The ambience of Osteria Sant'Anna is a seamless blend of rustic elegance and timeless charm. Exposed brick walls, dimly lit candles, and wooden tables set the mood, echoing the casual warmth of traditional osterias. Vintage photographs and artefacts dot the walls, transporting diners to Cisternino's rich past. An experience at Osteria Sant'Anna is incomplete without indulging in its wine offerings. The curated selection emphasizes Apulian vineyards, celebrating wines ranging from the Salento peninsula's full-bodied reds to the Itria Valley's aromatic whites. Each glass promises a taste and a journey through Apulia's storied winemaking heritage.

Perched in the heart of Cisternino, amidst the labyrinth of narrow streets and historic facades, lies Vattelappesca Restaurant & Wine—a gastronomic gem that seamlessly blends the rustic allure of Apulian traditions with a touch of contemporary flair. The name "Vattelappesca," reminiscent of the serene Mediterranean, sets the tone for a culinary journey celebrating the bounty of both land and sea. Every plate becomes a canvas, with the freshest local seafood meeting vibrant produce from Apulia's rolling countryside. From grilled octopus drizzled in the region's renowned olive oil to pasta dishes that pay homage to age-old recipes, Vattelappesca ensures each bite is a testament to the richness of Southern Italy. The restaurant's interior mirrors the elegance and charm that Apulia is celebrated for. Stone walls, softened by ambient lighting, create a backdrop for modern furnishings and carefully curated art pieces. The balance of old and new provides a unique ambience, evoking a sense of timelessness that resonates with locals and travellers. However, the experience at Vattelappesca is not solely about food—it's also a deep dive into the illustrious world of Italian wines. With a name that bears "Wine" proudly, the establishment boasts a diverse selection, focusing primarily on the varietals of Apulia. Each bottle, handpicked by sommeliers with an intimate knowledge of the region's vineyards, promises to elevate the dining experience, ensuring harmony between plate and glass.

In the picturesque alleys of Cisternino, where history whispers in every cobblestone and ancient arch, lies a modern culinary oasis: Giardini 36. As its name suggests, "Giardini," meaning gardens in Italian, this restaurant is a verdant escape amid urban charm, offering a fresh and innovative take on traditional Apulian cuisine. Upon entering Giardini 36, guests are greeted by a lush, ambient setting. Delicate ivies drape from the ceiling, terracotta pots bursting with aromatic herbs, and the soft trickle of water from a stone fountain create a tranquil backdrop. The establishment marries the serene beauty of a garden with the rustic elegance of Cisternino's architectural legacy. The menu at Giardini 36 is a delightful testament to the bounties of Apulia. While the foundation lies in the region's traditional dishes, from the famed Cisternino sausages to the iconic orecchiette pasta, the culinary team isn't afraid to innovate. Each word is a harmonious fusion of old and new, where time-tested recipes meet contemporary techniques and presentation. True to its garden-inspired theme, the restaurant emphasizes fresh, locally sourced ingredients. Whether it's olive oil pressed from groves just a stone's throw away or seafood caught in the shimmering waters of the Adriatic on the same day, freshness is paramount at Giardini 36.

Nestled amidst the quaint, cobblestone streets of Cisternino, Al Vecchio Fornello beckons diners with the inviting aroma of traditional Apulian cuisine, echoing memories of yesteryears. Its name, "At the Old Stove," is a nod to the age-old cooking traditions that have warmed the hearts and homes of countless generations in this region. Walking into Al Vecchio Fornello, one is transported back in time. The decor pays homage to a bygone era, with rustic wooden beams, vintage kitchen utensils adorning the walls, and the gentle glow of oil lamps illuminating the cosy dining space. Central to the restaurant, an authentic old stove is a testament to the timeless culinary practices upheld here. The menu at Al Vecchio Fornello is a heartfelt tribute to Apulia's gastronomic legacy. Classic dishes made with locally sourced ingredients shine brightly. Think fresh orecchiette pasta, hand-rolled each morning, served with decadent sauces that have simmered for hours on the stove. Or hearty meat dishes, slow-cooked to perfection, evoking the flavours of family gatherings from decades past.

Elegantly poised in the historic heart of Cisternino, Le Capase offers a dining experience that is a melodic blend of Apulian tradition and modern sophistication. Its name, echoing subtle tones of elegance and authenticity, sets the tone for a journey into the culinary depths of Southern Italy. Le Capase is a tapestry of contrasts. The exterior, with its weathered stone façade and rustic charm, belies an interior that speaks of contemporary elegance: muted tones, minimalist décor, and artful lighting create an atmosphere of relaxed luxury. The menu is a heartfelt ode to the rich culinary legacy of Apulia. Dishes are meticulously crafted, offering a symphony of flavours where the freshest local ingredients take centre stage. From sun-ripened tomatoes and hand-crafted cheeses to the day's catch from the neighbouring Adriatic Sea, every morsel at Le Capase promises to celebrate the region's bounty. Yet, while the roots are traditional, there's a touch of the avant-garde in the presentations. Every dish is food and art plated with visually striking and palate-enchanting finesse.

Tucked away amidst the rolling hills and picturesque landscapes of Cisternino, Osteria La Valle is a culinary treasure that offers a profound taste of Apulia's rich gastronomic heritage. The name "La Valle" - The Valley, evokes images of fertile lands, abundant harvests, and a connection to nature that is deeply embedded in the soul of this establishment. Stepping into Osteria La Valle, one is instantly embraced by an ambience that exudes rustic charm. Whitewashed walls adorned with vintage agricultural tools, wooden tables set with traditional ceramics, and soft candlelight create a warm and inviting atmosphere. The gentle hum of conversations and laughter resonates with the genuine spirit of Italian osterias, where dining is as much about community and camaraderie as it is about the food. The menu at Osteria La Valle is a masterful homage to the flavours and traditions of Apulia. Each dish, crafted with passion and precision, showcases the region's bounty in its purest form. Freshly made pasta, like the iconic orecchiette, pairs perfectly with robust sauces from sun-ripened tomatoes, wild herbs, and the finest local olive oils. Hearty meat dishes, grilled to perfection over open flames, pay tribute to the age-old techniques passed down through generations.

Situated in the charming heart of Cisternino, Ristó il Grappolo emerges as a culinary gem that elegantly blends the rich flavours of Apulia with a dedication to the region's vinicultural excellence. Inspired by its name, "The Bunch", the establishment proudly celebrates the bounties of the vine, creating an experience where food and wine dance in perfect harmony. From the moment you step into Ristó il Grappolo, you are enveloped in an ambience that speaks of rustic elegance. Whitewashed walls are adorned with vintage vineyard tools, wine barrels are artfully positioned, and cascading grapevines drape gracefully from overhead fixtures, transporting diners to the lush vineyards of Apulia. The culinary offerings are a tribute to the region's rich gastronomic traditions. Each dish, crafted with passion and precision, celebrates locally sourced ingredients, from the freshest seafood caught off the Apulian coast to succulent meats and handmade pasta that have been the pride of Italian kitchens for centuries. However, what truly sets Ristó il Grappolo apart is its wine selection. With "Grappolo" in its name, it is no surprise that the wine list is meticulously curated. From the ruby-red Primitivos to the aromatic and crisp whites, each bottle tells a story of the region's diverse terroir. Guests are encouraged to indulge in wine pairings, where each course is accompanied by a glass that complements and elevates the flavours on the plate.