Cisternino

If you stand on our panoramic terrace, you can see the town of Cisternino nestled among the hills. This charming, authentic town is just a 15-minute drive from Villa Gufo and is less touristy than nearby Locorotondo and Alberobello. Both Cisternino and Locorotondo are listed among the borghi più belli d’Italia, the most beautiful villages in Italy.

The town is famous for its fornelli pronti, small butcher shops where you can choose fresh meat and have it grilled on the spot. This is a unique dining experience you shouldn’t miss!

Visiting Cisternino is especially enjoyable in the early evening when locals take their passeggiata, the traditional evening stroll, with Piazza Vittorio Emanuele (featuring the Torre dell’Orologio) as a key stop. And of course, you can end your visit in a cozy restaurant (see Restaurants & Bars below).

Restaurants & Bars

Osteria Piatti Chiari

This restaurant is one of our favorites! It is known for its authentic cuisine, combining traditional flavors with a modern twist. Guests praise the intimate and cozy atmosphere, as well as the polite and attentive staff. The restaurant is small but full of charm.

The chef serves authentic Puglian dishes with a contemporary touch.
In summer, you can also sit outside on the terrace, located in a charming little square.
Warm and intimate ambiance.
Tasteful and aesthetically pleasing presentation of the dishes.

Address: Piazza Pellegrino Rossi, 27, Cisternino
Reservations: Click HERE for online reservations.
Info: Website / Instagram
Click HERE for directions.

Mezzofanti

This restaurant is located in an old bakery from the early 18th century. Atmosphere and coziness abound here. The restaurant is named (and so is the street) after Giuseppe Mezzofanti (1774–1849), a cardinal from Bologna who was a legendary polyglot. He spoke more than 30 languages fluently. His name has therefore become almost synonymous with “language prodigy.”

Unique décor, charm, and a warm atmosphere.
In summer, you can sit outside on the terrace.
Traditional dishes made with products straight from the land.
Pastas, meat, and fish dishes.

Address: Via Mezzofanti 17, Cisternino
Reservations: (+39) 080 444 84 07
Closed on Tuesdag, open all other days form 7:00 PM.
Menu clik HERE
Click HERE for directions

Le Capase

This trendy restaurant is just a stone’s throw from the historic center. Parking is easier to find right in front. Since 2014, it’s been a favorite hangout for the locals of Cisternino.

High-quality ingredients, seasonal dishes.
Pasta, meat, and fish specialties.
Refined pizzas — they even won a pizza award in 2025!
In summer, enjoy the charming rooftop terrace.
Booking is a must!

Address: Via Roma 27, Cisternino
Tel: (+39) 080 444 71 42
Closed on Monday, open all other weekdays from 7:00 PM.
Saturday and Sunday: 12:30 PM – 2u30 PM / 7u30 PM – 11u30 PM.
Website
CLICK HERE for directions

Al Vecchio Fornello – Eating at the butcher!

The restaurant is best known for its grilled meat dishes, especially the famous bombette – small pork rolls filled with cheese and herbs. A highly recommended option is the version with mortadella.

A unique and traditional dining experience.
In summer, you can sit at wooden tables and benches in a small, charming street.
Perfect for meat lovers.
Reservations (especially in summer) are a must!

Address: Via Basiliani, 18, Cisternino
Reservations: (+39) 080 444 11 13
Click HERE for directions.

Chirico Bistrot

Chirico Bistrot is a popular restaurant and cocktail bar. The menu changes each season, offering both modern and traditional dishes. It’s a great spot for lunch or dinner, or to simply enjoy a delicious cocktail on the terrace.

Located on the edge of the old town with a beautiful view.
Trendy yet traditional dishes.
Stylish bar and excellent cocktails.
In summer, events are often held late into the night.

Address: Via San Quirico, 23, Cisternino
Reservations: (+39) 080 444 86 61
Info: Instagram
Click HERE for directions.

Bar, Pasticceria History Vignola – Coffee with pastries and amazing view!

History Vignola is a renowned patisserie, café, and bar with a stunning panoramic view. For over 30 years, they have been offering a variety of handcrafted sweets and drinks.

Artisanal pastries and other sweet treats.
You can also enjoy an aperitif, an Aperol Spritz, or a refreshing beer here.
Breathtaking view.

Address: Via San Quirico, 28, Cisternino
Info: Website
Click HERE for directions.

20M2 Bar – Drinks & Snacks

20M2 is a popular bar and restaurant in the historic center of Cisternino. It has a relaxed, cozy atmosphere. The bar is tucked away in a small street with a few seating areas and even a swing! On the nearby square, they also have a restaurant where you can enjoy trendy and delicious dishes. Perfect for both lunch and dinner.

A hidden gem in a super charming street.
Try the spicy Aperol with peppers!
A mix of a bar and trendy food.
They often host events in the summer.

Address: Via G. D’Amico, 11, Cisternino
Info: Website / Instagram
Click HERE for directions.

Vineria del Borgo – Wine bar & shop

Vineria del Borgo is a charming wine bar and shop located in the historic center of Cisternino, offering an authentic experience for wine lovers and enthusiasts of local delicacies. They are known for their extensive selection of wines, featuring both Puglian and national varieties.

Wine tasting and/or wine purchasing.
Carefully selected local dishes.
Pop in for a glass of wine of buy a nice bottle of wine.

Address: Corso Umberto I, 78, Cisternino
Reservations: (+39) 080 972 18 66
E-mail: info@vineriadelborgocisternino.it
Info: Website / Instagram
Click HERE for directions.

Where to park?

Cisternino does not have large parking lots around the center, so it’s best to park in the surrounding streets. A good option is Via Roma, where parking is often available. From here, it’s an easy walk to the historic center.
Click HERE for directions to Via Roma.

You can also park on the other side of town near the panoramic viewpoint, which also offers a quick and easy walk into the old town.
Click HERE for directions.

Important: Many streets require paid parking!