IL SERPENTE In San benedetto del tronto

13/07/2024: A real gem of a restaurant that seems like a secret find. I had eaten here in 2007 and remembered having an amazing meal. Returning to Ascoli Piceno at the end of June, I was determined to revisit Del Corso and was not disappointed. The restaurant is located in an untouristed part of Ascoli, which gives it part of its special feel. After so many meals of meat, it was a pleasure to be in a restaurant specializing in fish. We enjoyed a delicious pasta with fish followed by an expertly prepared fritti misti and then fish fillets done in a perfectly favored lemon sauce which we soaked up every bit with lots of bread (and accompanied by a perfectly dressed simple salad as well). Lemon sorbet made for a perfect ending, especially given the heat and humidity. We were thoroughly charmed by the owner/chef, Piera, and her daughter, who served us quietly and professionally with the right amount of humor since our Italian is so bad. With our broken Italian, we had quite the conversation after the restaurant closed. We only wish we would have the opportunity to visit this jewel more often than once every decade or so. Bravo!

22/05/2024: We were there yesterday for lunch. Excellent restaurant in the center of Ascoli but off the tourist routes. Fresh and well cooked fish, the mixed fry is unmissable. Impeccable service.