Ristorante Albachiara In Fasano

If you want to reach the pinnacle of taste, you can do it here. All fresh fish. The raw fish is spectacular, with all the variations. Even the dessert won us over. The only problem is that the food is so good, we can't stop ordering!

We stumbled upon this restaurant by chance while driving along the seaside road from Savelletri to Torre Canne because there was a road closure due to an American film crew shooting there. The location is charming, and I took a few photos. Service was quick, primarily because it was early and there were few people nearby, and also because they're used to crowded places. The seafood appetizer was rather small in quantity, in my opinion, and pointlessly compared to other options, but still good. The lobster and sea urchin troccoli were very good. As you can see from the photos, the prices aren't as cheap as you'd expect for a place with plastic tables and chairs, plastic covers, and side sheets—basically, a cheap, popular beach resort. The prices are likely affected by the fact that on holidays they're crowded with people from all over the province of Bari and the surrounding area; years ago (about ten), prices were half what they are today, and the clientele was sparse.

Perfect place in spring, eat sea urchins and raw seafood by the sea at the right price

Drawn by the place's fame, we headed to Albachiara for Sunday lunch. The restaurant doesn't take reservations; first-come, first-served service is the best. It being a Sunday in March, and especially a very breezy one, we had no problem finding parking directly on site and didn't have to wait for a table. Ninety percent of the restaurant's appeal is due to the surrounding natural setting, which, like the rest of the area, is stunning. The restaurant itself is well-presented, though rather spartan, with little effort even in setting up the tables. The restrooms are very clean, and the staff is friendly and helpful. The €1 Ricci—small Greek ones to differentiate them from the larger €2 Croatian ones—are filling and tasty. The fried baby octopus are okay. The first course, cavatelli with seafood, is nothing special, and the portion is frankly paltry. The coffee afterward is undrinkable; avoid. Overall, not a thrilling experience. If I had waited to be seated, the experience would certainly have been negative.

Excellent raw and fish, fast and friendly service, priceless view

The enchantment of the sea, beyond the clouds Sometimes the weather doesn't cooperate, but certain places have the power to transform a pouring rain into a picturesque setting. Lunch at Alba Chiara with three dear friends was an experience that transcends the palate. Despite the leaden sky, the view of the Savelletri sea retains an extraordinary emotional power. We graced the table with the freshness of Greek sea urchins and the intensity of peppered mussels, finishing with a flawless mixed fry. All enhanced by an exquisite bottle of Pungirosa rosé, the perfect travel companion for these flavors. A place where atmosphere and quality meet, regardless of the weather outside.

You can find sea urchins easily. They're imported but really good. They don't take reservations, but the service is really fast. If it's busy, wait a bit, but you won't be left starving. Good appetizers and first courses. Sea urchins cost around two euros.

After many years, I returned to Albachiara yesterday. It's an institution if you want to try sea urchins and fresh fish. The location is basic, but that's perhaps what makes it all the more magical: eating near a cliff. We ate very well; the only downside was the long wait between the appetizer and the main course. The waiters were very helpful.

Overall, I recommend trying the gratinated shrimp and the mixed fried fish. Unfortunately, over time, the quality/price ratio has become a bit unbalanced, as is the case with many other places in this area, to the detriment of both locals and the many tourists. The service could be improved a bit, but it remains one of the best options in the area.

Location overlooking the sea near the rocks. Very basic. The catch is excellent and always fresh. Wide selection of wines and sparkling wines.