Locanda del Buongustaio In Castel di sangro

I had been to the Locanda del Buongustaio as a boy, I'm back now, at 41 years old, with my wife, small child and dog, and I must say that the place hasn't changed a bit. I read in some ungenerous reviews that the restaurant is old and stuck in the 80s, but it would be more correct to say that everything, from the room to the menu, is anchored to tradition and an almost philological search for the quality and service of the past; the furnishings may not be modern but they are clean and well maintained; the lights are not the same LEDs that make a restaurant in Naples the same as one in Milan or Trieste, but they are iron and glass lamps that give warmth and atmosphere: in the area there are dozens of alternatives for those with different tastes, from the stars by Niko Romito to the younger and more innovative venues, but for those looking for a place from times gone by, the Buongustaio is a precious rarity. The menu maintains obsolete but not therefore objectionable proposals on the menu: champagne risotto, Marsala piccata, scallops are often unobtainable, but they deserve more than a taste. Not to mention the very simple stars in soup, snubbed by any restaurant and instead highly appreciated by a couple of parents with a three-year-old child cold from an autumn day. Finally, the service: the owner is serious and professional, sure of himself and his cooking, and can afford it (the dishes are delicious). Even though he doesn't allow dogs, he made a small exception for our little black dog: a gesture that we certainly appreciated very much. The dishes arrive at the table on a trolley, and are plated at the moment: extra attention that improves everyone's experience. Final note for my saltimbocca alla Romana, very tasty and tender, and above all for the chicory: even a simple sautéed herb can turn into an oily and indigestible nightmare, but from Gourmet the leaves and stems are very tender, the bitterness is present but not excessive , the seasoning does not hide but enhances the flavours. We will certainly return.

We came across this restaurant by chance and had a quiet dinner. The owner was very helpful and kind. We had two second courses with a side dish which we were satisfied with. Positive review.

Excellent cuisine! ! Compliments ! The look of the place has remained stuck in the 90s but the food is quality 👏👏👏

The place is a bit retro, but the food is excellent!

This review should have two parts: a review of the locale, which would not be very positive (it's a 70's style inner with really nothing to write home about) and a review of the food served which is absolutely delicious and genuine. If you're not in a hurry and appreciate a genuine and very tasty dishes at a reasonable price you're right at home here. I think these were the best fettucine al buongustaio I've ever eaten. But if you want a posh interior, super attentive service, and capricious dishes at extraordinary prices - go look somewhere else.