The Ultimate Food & Wine Guide to Puglia

Discover the authentic flavours of Puglia, from traditional trattorias and award-winning wineries to olive oil tastings, local markets and unforgettable culinary experiences across the Valle d'Itria.

Why Puglia is a Food Lover's Paradise

Puglia is one of Italy's most rewarding culinary destinations, where exceptional ingredients, centuries-old traditions and genuine hospitality come together to create unforgettable dining experiences.

From rustic trattorias hidden in whitewashed villages to elegant restaurants overlooking the Valle d'Itria, every meal tells the story of the region. Fresh seafood from the Adriatic, handmade pasta, creamy burrata, extra virgin olive oil, locally produced wines and seasonal vegetables are all part of a cuisine built on simplicity and quality.

Whether you're looking for an authentic family-run restaurant, a winery surrounded by vineyards, a bustling farmers' market or a hands-on cooking class, this guide brings together the very best food and wine experiences across the heart of Puglia.

Why You'll Love Puglia's Food Scene

🍝 Authentic family-run restaurants

🍷 Award-winning local wineries

🫒 World-class extra virgin olive oil

🧺 Vibrant weekly farmers' markets

👨‍🍳 Hands-on cooking classes & food experiences

Local Tip

Many of the best dining experiences in Puglia are found away from the busiest tourist areas. Don't hesitate to venture into smaller villages like Cisternino or Locorotondo, where family-run restaurants often serve some of the region's most authentic cuisine.

Best Restaurants by Destination

The Valle d'Itria is home to some of Puglia's most memorable dining experiences. From traditional butcher restaurants and family-run trattorias to elegant contemporary kitchens, each town offers its own unique culinary identity.

We've selected our favourite restaurants in Ostuni, Cisternino and Locorotondo—places where exceptional food, warm hospitality and authentic local flavours come together. Whether you're looking for a casual lunch, a romantic dinner or a true taste of regional cuisine, these are the restaurants we recommend without hesitation.

Ostuni

Best for: Elegant dining, seafood and contemporary Apulian cuisine.

Osteria del tempo perso

One of Ostuni's best-known restaurants, famous for its unique setting inside ancient stone caves and its traditional Apulian cuisine. Homemade pasta, local meats and seasonal ingredients make it a favourite for visitors looking for an authentic dining experience.

Perfect for: A traditional dinner in the heart of the old town.

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A charming restaurant serving classic regional dishes with a refined touch. Expect fresh local ingredients, excellent olive oil and a warm atmosphere.

Perfect for: Couples and first-time visitors.

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Osteria Monacelle

Taverna della gelosia

Nestled in the heart of Ostuni's historic centre, Taverna della Gelosia offers authentic Apulian cuisine with a refined contemporary touch. Its charming terraces and elegant atmosphere make it a wonderful choice for a memorable dining experience.

Best for: Romantic dinners and special occasions.

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Cisternino

Best for: Traditional butcher restaurants, bombette and authentic local flavours.

Rosticceria L'Antico Borgo

🥩 Traditional Butcher     🔥 Charcoal Grill     ⭐ Local Favourite

One of the best places to experience the famous fornelli pronti. Choose your meat directly from the butcher's counter before it's grilled over charcoal and served with simple local sides.

Good to Know

📍 Historic centre
🥩 Famous for bombette and sausages
💶 Great value
🌙 Best visited for dinner

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🍝 Traditional Cuisine     🍷 Local Wines     👨‍👩‍👧 Family Friendly

A long-standing restaurant serving authentic Apulian dishes in a relaxed atmosphere. Homemade pasta, seasonal ingredients and generous hospitality make it a favourite among both locals and visitors.

Good to Know

📍 Near the old town
🍝 Excellent homemade pasta
🍷 Good regional wine list
📅 Booking recommended in summer

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Zio Pietro

Mezzofanti

🍽 Modern Apulian Cuisine     🌿 Seasonal Ingredients     🍷 Wine Selection

For a more contemporary interpretation of regional cuisine, Mezzofanti combines traditional flavours with refined presentation while remaining true to local ingredients.

Good to Know

📍 Historic centre
🍷 Excellent wine pairing
✨ Ideal for a special dinner
📅 Reservations advised

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Locorotondo

Best for: Wine bars, refined regional cuisine and romantic dinners.

U Curdunn

🍝 Traditional Cuisine     🍷 Local Wines     ⭐ Local Favourite

One of Locorotondo's best-known restaurants, U Curdunn celebrates traditional Apulian cooking with homemade pasta, seasonal ingredients and recipes passed down through generations. The warm hospitality and rustic atmosphere make it a favourite with both locals and visitors.

Good to Know

📍 Historic centre
🍝 Famous for handmade orecchiette
🍷 Excellent regional wine list
📅 Reservations recommended in summer

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✨ Contemporary Dining     🌿 Seasonal Menu     🍷 Wine Pairings

For a more refined dining experience, Bina offers a modern interpretation of Apulian cuisine while remaining faithful to local ingredients. Carefully presented dishes and an excellent wine selection make it an ideal choice for a memorable dinner.

Good to Know

📍 Near the historic centre
🍽 Ideal for a special occasion
🍷 Excellent wine pairings
📅 Advance booking recommended

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Bina Ristorante

Pavì Wine Restaurant

🍷 Wine Bar     🧀 Local Products     🌅 Aperitivo

Perfect for an aperitivo or a relaxed evening, Pavì focuses on regional wines paired with local cheeses, cured meats and seasonal dishes. It's an excellent place to discover the flavours of the Valle d'Itria in a laid-back atmosphere.

Good to Know

🍷 Wide selection of local wines
🧀 Great sharing boards
🌅 Ideal around sunset
🥂 Perfect for aperitivo

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Best Wineries in Puglia

Explore our favourite wineries in Puglia, from family-run vineyards to award-winning estates across the Valle d'Itria.

I Pastini

Discover the Signature Wines of the Valle d'Itria

Nestled among the vineyards just outside Locorotondo, I Pastini is one of the Valle d'Itria's most respected family-run wineries. Specialising in indigenous grape varieties such as Verdeca, Bianco d'Alessano and Minutolo, the estate offers an authentic introduction to the region's unique wine heritage. Guided tastings and vineyard tours allow visitors to explore the vineyards, learn about local winemaking traditions and enjoy elegant wines in a beautiful countryside setting.

Signature Wines

  • Verdeca

  • Bianco d'Alessano

  • Minutolo

Experience

Wine Tastings • Vineyard Tours • Cellar Visits

Distance from Trullo EVO: ≈ 18 km • 20 minutes

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Family Tradition Meets Contemporary Winemaking

Located in the heart of the Valle d'Itria, Cardone Vini combines generations of family tradition with modern winemaking techniques. Visitors can enjoy guided cellar tours, discover locally grown grape varieties and sample a selection of wines paired with regional cheeses and cured meats. Its intimate atmosphere makes it one of the most authentic winery experiences near Trullo EVO.

Signature Wines

  • Locorotondo DOC

  • Primitivo

  • Rosato

Experience

Wine Tastings • Food Pairings • Cellar Tours

Distance from Trullo EVO: ≈ 16 km • 18 minutes

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Cardone Vini

Cantina Albea

Historic Winery in the Heart of Alberobello

Established in 1949, Cantina Albea is one of Alberobello's best-known wineries and an ideal stop while visiting the famous UNESCO town. Guests can explore its historic underground cellars before enjoying guided tastings that showcase some of Puglia's best-loved wines in a unique and atmospheric setting.

Signature Wines

  • Locorotondo DOC

  • Negroamaro

  • Primitivo

Experience

Historic Cellars • Guided Tastings • Winery Tours

Distance from Trullo EVO: ≈ 27 km • 28 minutes

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Wine, Local Cuisine and Countryside Hospitality

Surrounded by vineyards and centuries-old olive trees, Masseria Torricella offers more than a traditional winery visit. Guests can enjoy locally produced wines alongside authentic Apulian cuisine, making it one of the area's best destinations for combining wine tasting with a leisurely countryside lunch.

Signature Wines

  • Primitivo

  • Susumaniello

  • Rosato

Experience

Wine Tastings • Farm-to-Table Lunches • Estate Tours

Distance from Trullo EVO: ≈ 29 km • 30 minutes

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Masseria Torricella

Cantina Sociale di Locorotondo

Discover the Historic Wines of Locorotondo DOC

Founded in 1930, Cantina Sociale di Locorotondo is one of the oldest wine cooperatives in Puglia and has played a key role in promoting the renowned Locorotondo DOC appellation. Visitors can taste elegant white wines crafted from native grape varieties while learning about the region's long-standing winemaking traditions.

Signature Wines

  • Locorotondo DOC

  • Verdeca

  • Bianco d'Alessano

Experience

Wine Tastings • Winery Shop • Guided Visits

Distance from Trullo EVO: ≈ 18 km • 20 minutes

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Polvanera

Award-Winning Organic Wines in the Murgia Countryside

Located between Gioia del Colle and Conversano, Polvanera is one of Puglia's most acclaimed boutique wineries. Set within a striking limestone estate, it specialises in organic wines produced from native grape varieties, offering premium tastings in a refined yet welcoming environment. It's an excellent choice for travellers seeking a more contemporary wine experience.

Signature Wines

  • Primitivo Gioia del Colle DOC

  • Aglianico

  • Fiano

Experience

Premium Tastings • Vineyard Tours • Cellar Visits

Distance from Trullo EVO: ≈ 30 km • 30 minutes

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Puglia Wine Guide

Discover the native grape varieties that have made Puglia one of Italy's most exciting wine regions. From bold reds to refreshing whites and elegant rosés, here's what to order during your stay.

🍇 Negroamaro

Earthy, elegant and deeply rooted in Salento.

Taste

Dark berries • Herbs • Cocoa

Perfect With

Lamb • Pasta • Tomato-based dishes

🍇 Primitivo

The bold and fruit-forward red that has become Puglia's international icon.

Taste

Black cherry • Plum • Vanilla • Spice

Perfect With

Grilled meats • Bombette • Aged cheeses

🍇 Susumaniello

Puglia's rising star and one of its most exciting native grapes.

Taste

Blackberries • Violet • Pepper

Perfect With

Charcuterie • Roast pork • Grilled vegetables

🍇 Nero di Troia

Structured and refined with excellent ageing potential.

Taste

Red berries • Tobacco • Spices

Perfect With

Beef • Game • Mature cheeses

🍷 Which Puglian Wine Should You Try?

Local Tip

Don't hesitate to ask for wines made from native grape varieties. While international wines are available, the true flavours of Puglia are found in local labels produced just a few kilometres from where you're dining.

Best Olive Oil Experiences in Puglia

Discover historic olive mills, award-winning extra virgin olive oils and authentic tasting experiences among the ancient olive groves of the Valle d'Itria.

Farmers' Markets in Puglia

Discover the best weekly markets in the Valle d'Itria, where you can shop for fresh produce, local cheeses, artisan products and authentic flavours of Puglia.

The Largest Market Near Trullo EVO

Held every Saturday morning, Ostuni's weekly market is one of the largest and liveliest in the area. Stroll through dozens of stalls selling seasonal fruit and vegetables, local cheeses, cured meats, fresh bread, clothing and household goods. It's the perfect place to experience local life while picking up ingredients for a meal back at the villa.

Best For: Fresh Produce • Local Cheeses • Artisan Products

Market Day: Saturday Morning

Distance from Trullo EVO: ≈ 15 km • 18 minutes

Google Maps

Ostuni Weekly Market

Cisternino Weekly Market

A Traditional Village Market

Every Monday morning, the streets of Cisternino come alive with local vendors selling fresh produce, regional cheeses, olives, seasonal vegetables and handmade products. Smaller than Ostuni's market but wonderfully authentic, it's a favourite among locals.

Best For: Cheeses • Seasonal Vegetables • Local Atmosphere

Market Day: Monday Morning

Distance from Trullo EVO: ≈ 12 km • 15 minutes

Google Maps

Locorotondo Weekly Market

Shop Like a Local

This charming weekly market reflects the elegant atmosphere of Locorotondo itself. Visitors can browse fresh produce, flowers, local delicacies and artisan goods before enjoying a coffee or aperitivo in the historic centre.

Best For: Fresh Produce • Flowers • Local Specialties

Market Day: Friday Morning

Distance from Trullo EVO: ≈ 18 km • 20 minutes

Google Maps

One of the Biggest Markets in the Valle d'Itria

Martina Franca hosts one of the largest weekly markets in the region, attracting both locals and visitors. Alongside food stalls, you'll find artisan products, clothing, kitchenware and regional specialties, making it an excellent destination for a morning of shopping.

Best For: Regional Food • Artisan Products • Shopping

Market Day: Wednesday Morning

Distance from Trullo EVO: ≈ 24 km • 28 minutes

Google Maps

Martina Franca Weekly Market

Fasano Weekly Market

Fresh Flavours Near the Adriatic Coast

A popular market offering an excellent selection of fruit, vegetables, cheeses, seafood and local products. It's an ideal stop before heading to the nearby beaches.

Best For: Seafood • Fresh Produce • Local Food

Market Day: Thursday Morning

Distance from Trullo EVO: ≈ 22 km • 25 minutes

Google Maps

Alberobello Weekly Market

Combine Local Shopping with a UNESCO Visit

Open every Thursday morning, Alberobello's market is smaller but worth visiting if you're already exploring the famous trulli. You'll find fresh local products, cheeses, olives and handcrafted souvenirs in a relaxed atmosphere.

Best For: Local Food • Souvenirs • Regional Products

Market Day: Thursday Morning

Distance from Trullo EVO: ≈ 27 km • 30 minutes

Google Maps

Local tip

Bring a reusable shopping bag and some cash, as many smaller vendors don't accept credit cards. Arriving early (between 8:00 and 10:00 AM) gives you the best selection of fresh seasonal produce.

Traditional Foods You Must Try in Puglia

From handmade pasta and creamy burrata to traditional street food and slow-cooked regional classics, discover the authentic dishes that define the flavours of Puglia.

Orecchiette alle Cime di Rapa

Puglia's Most Iconic Pasta Dish

No trip to Puglia is complete without trying orecchiette alle cime di rapa. These small, hand-shaped pasta shells are traditionally prepared with turnip greens, garlic, extra virgin olive oil and a touch of chilli, creating a simple yet incredibly flavourful dish that perfectly represents Apulian cuisine.

Fresh orecchiette are still handmade throughout the region, and many family-run restaurants continue to prepare them using recipes passed down through generations.

Where to Try It

Traditional trattorias across Ostuni, Cisternino and Locorotondo.

Burrata di Andria

Italy's Creamiest Cheese

Created in Andria over a century ago, burrata is one of Italy's most celebrated cheeses. Its delicate mozzarella shell hides a rich, creamy centre made from fresh stracciatella, delivering an unforgettable texture and flavour.

Best enjoyed simply with ripe tomatoes, local olive oil and crusty bread, burrata showcases the exceptional quality of Puglia's dairy tradition.

Where to Try It

Restaurants throughout the Valle d'Itria or local cheese shops.

Bombette di Cisternino

The Signature Dish of the Valle d'Itria

Bombette are small pork rolls stuffed with cheese, herbs and seasoning before being grilled over charcoal. Originating in Cisternino, they are traditionally served at the town's famous fornelli pronti, where customers choose their meat before it's cooked to order.

This is one of the most authentic culinary experiences you can have in Puglia.

Where to Try It

The butcher restaurants of Cisternino.

Focaccia Barese

Puglia's Favourite Street Food

Soft, fluffy and topped with cherry tomatoes, olives and plenty of extra virgin olive oil, focaccia Barese is the ultimate snack while exploring the region. Its crispy edges and airy interior make it one of Italy's finest focaccias.

Where to Try It

Bakeries and cafés throughout Puglia.

Frisella

The Taste of a Puglian Summer

Frisella is a twice-baked bread traditionally soaked in water before being topped with tomatoes, oregano, olive oil and sea salt. Refreshing and incredibly simple, it's a staple of summer lunches across Puglia.

Where to Try It

Beach restaurants and countryside trattorias.

Panzerotto

Crispy Outside, Melting Inside

Golden and freshly fried, panzerotti are stuffed with tomato and mozzarella, although many delicious variations exist. Popular throughout Puglia, they're perfect as a quick lunch or afternoon snack.

Where to Try It

Street food shops and traditional bakeries.

Fave e Cicoria

A Timeless Rural Classic

Creamy broad bean purée served with wild chicory is one of Puglia's oldest recipes. Made with just a handful of ingredients, it perfectly captures the region's philosophy of transforming simple produce into deeply satisfying dishes.

Where to Try It

Traditional countryside restaurants.

Polpo alla Pignata

Slow-Cooked Octopus the Traditional Way

This coastal speciality is cooked slowly in a terracotta pot with tomatoes, herbs and local olive oil until perfectly tender. Rich in flavour yet wonderfully delicate, it's a must for seafood lovers.

Where to Try It

Seafood restaurants in Monopoli and along the Adriatic coast.

Tiella Barese

Comfort Food from Bari

Layers of rice, potatoes and mussels baked together with tomatoes, onions and pecorino cheese create one of Puglia's most comforting traditional dishes.

Where to Try It

Traditional restaurants serving Bari cuisine.

Capocollo di Martina Franca

Puglia's Finest Cured Meat

Slow-smoked over oak and aromatic herbs, Capocollo di Martina Franca is considered one of Italy's finest cured meats. Thinly sliced and served with local cheeses, it's a highlight of any antipasto.

Where to Try It

Delicatessens and restaurants in Martina Franca.

Where to Try It

Traditional countryside restaurants.

Pasticciotto

The Sweet Symbol of Salento

This buttery pastry filled with silky custard is traditionally enjoyed warm for breakfast alongside an espresso. Originally from Lecce, it's now loved throughout Puglia.

Where to Try It

Pastry shops across the region.

These delicate fried pastries are drizzled with vincotto or honey and decorated with colourful sprinkles during the festive season. They represent one of Puglia's oldest and most cherished dessert traditions.

Where to Try It

Local bakeries during Christmas or traditional festivals.

A Traditional Christmas Dessert

Cartellate

Local tip

If you're visiting local markets, don't miss the chance to buy fresh burrata, seasonal vegetables, olives and artisan bread. Pair them with a bottle of local wine and extra virgin olive oil for an authentic Puglian lunch back at Trullo EVO.

Cooking Classes at Trullo EVO

Take a piece of Puglia home with you. Join one of our hands-on cooking classes and learn to prepare authentic local recipes in the peaceful countryside of Trullo EVO.


The best souvenir from Puglia isn't something you buy—it's a recipe you'll make again and again.

🍝 Fresh Pasta Making Class

Learn to Make Puglia's Favourite Street Food

Learn how to create fresh pasta the traditional Apulian way in a relaxed countryside setting. Guided step by step, you'll prepare classic handmade pasta before sitting down to enjoy the meal you've created together with fresh local ingredients and regional wine.

🥟 Panzerotti Cooking Class

Learn to Make Puglia's Favourite Street Food

Master the art of preparing authentic panzerotti from scratch using traditional ingredients and techniques passed down through generations. From kneading the dough to creating the perfect filling and frying each panzerotto until golden and crispy, this hands-on experience is fun, interactive and perfect for families, couples and groups.

Frequently Asked Questions

Discover Trullo EVO

The best way to discover Puglia is to live it. Stay at Trullo EVO and find yourself just minutes from the region's finest restaurants, wineries, olive oil producers and local markets. Join our exclusive cooking classes, explore the Valle d'Itria at your own pace and experience the authentic flavours that make this corner of Italy so unforgettable.

Looking for more inspiration? Explore our destination guides to Ostuni, Cisternino and Locorotondo, or discover the best beaches, day trips and experiences across the Valle d'Itria.