30/01/2026: Away from the chaos of Salento, there are still small villages waiting to be discovered, where you can also find unique places where flavor and quality are a pleasant surprise. Aquanegra Paravineria is a true gem in Castrignano de' Greci, an indoor dining room where the counter displays products, cured meats and cheeses like a typical Florentine shop, and many labels to choose from. Whether it's a rich aperitif or a tasty dinner, at Aquanegra you'll be spoiled for choice with first courses, exquisite meats, pizza, and of course, you have to save room for the desserts, which Luca Moriero, an extraordinary host, prepares personally, having a background as a pastry chef.
The outdoor seating is a typical Salento courtyard, with fairy lights, plants, and white stones adorning the perimeter, leaving room for the starry sky.
08/12/2025: I had a very positive experience at AquaNegra Paravineria. Located in the heart of Grecia Salentina, in Castrignano dei Greci, it presents itself as a place that goes beyond a simple wine shop or restaurant. The name says it all: "AquaNegra" is a clear reference to Negroamaro, a typical grape variety of Puglia, and particularly of Salento... "Paravineria," on the other hand, is a term that, through a play on words, refers to everything that revolves around good wine, good food, and everything healthy.
As soon as you walk through the front door, you immediately notice a very welcoming space, built in Lecce stone, despite its size. Opposite is the corner for the pork butcher's shop and delicatessen with hanging hams and the corner for the pizzeria with a wood-fired oven.
Browsing the menu, you immediately understand the restaurant's signature style, with a vast selection of cured meats and cheeses, including excellent meats, as well as a selection of pasta dishes and pizzas. The gastronomic offering is vast and varied, as is the extensive selection on the wine list, featuring regional, national, and even international labels.
For the occasion, we sampled the truly excellent cured meats and cheeses platter, a pizza with bresaola, almonds, and buffalo mozzarella, which was also delicious. This was also a very well-cooked Angus steak, succulent and delicious.
The service was courteous and competent.
The price wasn't at all high considering the quality of the ingredients used... €32 per person, a glass of Negroamaro, water, limoncello, and cover charge included.
AquaNegra... a well-rounded gastronomic experience you absolutely must try...!!!
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