Where to Eat
Given Apulia's long coastline, it's no surprise that fresh seafood plays a large role in the local cuisine. Also look for locally harvested olive oils and locally bottled wines.
The price code for the restaurant entrees below is $ = 100 or more.
Pizzosteria Delirio
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This family-friendly pizza restaurant in Foggia offers some mighty tasty pies made with the freshest of local ingredients. You can find all the traditional toppings here, in addition to modern menu additions such as gluten-free crust. Charming tablecloths and wooden chairs create an ambience that will make you feel like a local in this part of Italy.
Ristorante Rivelli
$-$$
Located in Matera, this restaurant features traditional cuisine including fresh vegetables, homemade pastas, and fantastic antipasti. The vaulted, stone-carved ceilings are done in true Matera sassi fashion, with warm lighting that will let you linger for hours over your favorite bottle of local wine.
Don Matteo Ristorante
$-$$
Also carved out of the stone in Matera is Don Matteo Ristorante, where the elegance of presentation on the plate is a surprisingly nice touch within the literally down-to-earth décor. The menu tends to be simple but made with the freshest ingredients, so even though there may be fewer selections here than at more touristy locations, the taste will be terrific.
Il Giardino Ristorante
$-$$
Located in Lecce, this restaurant specializes in fresh seafood and fish prepared in a style that it calls “creative cuisine.” The wine list is filled with local favorites, and the décor is billed as simple, modern, and comfortable. Small groups are welcome. The restaurant is conveniently located in the center of town, near Piazza Mazzini.
Zio Giglio
$-$$
Also in Lecce is Pizzeria Zio Giglio, which proudly declares that its chefs are trained in “the art of pizza.” More than two dozen types of pizza are on the menu, some traditional and others more exotic. You'll also find calzones, focaccia, Panini, and other eat-onthe-go favorites at this tourist-friendly restaurant.
