13/07/2025: We probably wouldn't have even included this place in our culinary plans during our short stay in Lecce, as the current Google rating falls a bit short of our standards. But since it was mentioned by a local who rented us an apartment as one of two places to visit in Lecce, it was inevitable that we wouldn't listen. And it was worth it, because although it wasn't something special enough for me to honestly give it 5 stars, I consider this restaurant a solid 4, with really good, traditional Apulian cuisine.
The restaurant is located in the historic center of Lecce, on a busy street – it's lively and pleasant, and you can sit outside (as we did, but at tables on a side street, not by the barrels on the main street) or inside (there was a large dog there, though, and not everyone appreciates loud barking and that kind of company).
We started with an appetizer called "Lu Spilu." It was a plate of deep-fried balls in three different varieties: meatballs, potato croquettes, and what the menu calls "iconic" pittule (yeast dough balls traditional to Salento). They were tasty, although I expected them to be crispier on the outside after the "iconic" pittule.
Then came the main courses: my son ordered grilled octopus, and I opted for the puccia, popular in the region, a beautifully toasted roll filled with octopus simmered in a pignata. A pignata is a terracotta pot used for long cooking and is considered the ancestor of today's slow cookers. The girls, on the other hand, ordered parmigiana (with eggplant, mortadella, meatballs, and capocollo).
The appetizer was okay. My son's octopus and my puccia were very good. The parmigiana were very meaty, but good. A chilled rosé wine from the region is also available.
Service is acceptable. I don't like having to ask for plates to be removed half an hour after eating. But the overall experience was good. Don't be fooled by the currently rather low Google ranking. It's worth a visit and a try, especially since the prices aren't high for Lecce.
A solid 4! Check it out!
11/07/2025: An elegant and welcoming restaurant with friendly and professional staff. Traditional dishes are freshly cooked under the owner's watchful eye. I recommend the puccia and the fried octopus, but everything is truly delicious. If you're lucky, ask for the stewed snails, a truly delicious and unique off-menu item. A must-try is a Lecce coffee, served in a moka pot with almond milk and ice. A wonderful experience in a historic center that truly feels like a living room.
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