Best Restaurants in Porto Ercole Italy

Discover the Best Places to Eat in this Charming Italian Town 🍝🍷

Porto Ercole, located in the beautiful region of Tuscany, is a hidden gem known for its stunning beaches, picturesque marina, and delicious cuisine. With so many delicious dining options to choose from, it can be overwhelming to decide where to go. This guide will help you discover the best restaurants in Porto Ercole and what makes them so special.

Introduction

When looking for a great meal in Porto Ercole, it’s important to know what to expect. The town has a long history of fishing and agriculture, which is reflected in its cuisine. You’ll find that most of the best restaurants in Porto Ercole serve fresh and locally sourced ingredients, including fish, seafood, and meat. Many restaurants also offer a wide selection of Italian wines to complement your meal.

In this guide, we’ll introduce you to some of the top restaurants in the area, provide detailed information on their menus, and offer some tips on what to order. We’ll also answer some common questions about dining in Porto Ercole, so you can plan your culinary adventure with confidence.

What are the best restaurants in Porto Ercole?

In no particular order, here are some of the best restaurants in Porto Ercole:

1. Il Pellicano

Il Pellicano is a five-star hotel located in Porto Ercole with a Michelin-starred restaurant. The menu changes seasonally and features traditional Tuscan cuisine with a modern twist. The restaurant also offers a tasting menu with wine pairings. This is a great place for a special occasion or a romantic dinner.

2. La Scaletta

La Scaletta is a seafood restaurant located in the heart of Porto Ercole’s historic center. The restaurant has a cozy atmosphere and serves fresh fish and seafood caught daily by local fishermen. The menu features traditional dishes like spaghetti alle vongole (spaghetti with clams) and fried calamari.

3. Da Caino

Da Caino is a two-Michelin-starred restaurant located in the nearby town of Montemerano, about 30 minutes from Porto Ercole. The restaurant is known for its innovative cuisine and features dishes like lobster with asparagus, oysters, and caviar. This is a great restaurant for a special occasion or a foodie adventure.

4. Il Ristoro

Il Ristoro is a charming restaurant located in the hills above Porto Ercole with a panoramic view of the coast. The restaurant serves traditional Tuscan cuisine, including homemade pasta, fresh fish, and grilled meats. This is a great place for a leisurely lunch or dinner with friends.

5. La Pinta

La Pinta is a casual beachside restaurant located on the beautiful Feniglia beach. The menu features fresh fish and seafood, as well as pizza and pasta dishes. This is a great place to enjoy a meal while taking in the stunning views of the Mediterranean.

6. Osteria del Teatro

Osteria del Teatro is a cozy restaurant located in the historic center of Porto Ercole. The menu features traditional Tuscan cuisine, including homemade pasta, grilled meats, and fresh fish. This is a great place to enjoy a meal with family or friends.

7. Il Moletto

Il Moletto is a seafood restaurant located in the marina of Porto Ercole. The restaurant has a terrace overlooking the harbor and serves fresh fish and seafood, as well as pizza and pasta dishes. This is a great place to enjoy a meal while watching the boats come and go.

8. Il Gambero Rosso

Il Gambero Rosso is a seafood restaurant located in the nearby town of Orbetello, about 15 minutes from Porto Ercole. The restaurant serves fresh fish and seafood, as well as homemade pasta and pizza. This is a great place to enjoy a meal after a day of exploring the surrounding area.

9. La Capannina

La Capannina is a traditional Tuscan restaurant located in the hills above Porto Ercole. The restaurant serves homemade pasta, grilled meats, and fresh fish. This is a great place to enjoy a meal with a view of the countryside.

10. Da Giorgio

Da Giorgio is a pizzeria located in the marina of Porto Ercole. The restaurant serves delicious wood-fired pizzas, as well as pasta dishes and salads. This is a great place to grab a quick bite while exploring the town.

11. La Taverna del Pirata

La Taverna del Pirata is a seafood restaurant located on the beach of Cala Galera, about 10 minutes from Porto Ercole. The restaurant serves fresh fish and seafood, as well as pizza and pasta dishes. This is a great place to enjoy a meal while taking in the beautiful views of the sea.

12. Il Pozzo

Il Pozzo is a wine bar located in the historic center of Porto Ercole. The bar offers a wide selection of Italian wines, as well as cold cuts and cheeses. This is a great place to enjoy a glass of wine and some snacks before or after dinner.

13. Il Piccolo

Il Piccolo is a gelateria located in the marina of Porto Ercole. The gelateria serves a variety of delicious gelato flavors, as well as coffee and pastries. This is a great place to stop for a refreshing treat while exploring the town.

FAQs

1. What is traditional Tuscan cuisine?

Traditional Tuscan cuisine is characterized by its use of simple, fresh ingredients. Some of the most common ingredients include olive oil, bread, pasta, tomatoes, beans, and herbs. Meat dishes like steak and wild boar are also popular in the region.

2. What is the dress code for restaurants in Porto Ercole?

The dress code for restaurants in Porto Ercole is generally smart casual. This means that you can wear nice jeans or pants with a blouse or collared shirt. Some of the more upscale restaurants may require a jacket for men.

3. Do restaurants in Porto Ercole accept credit cards?

Most restaurants in Porto Ercole do accept credit cards, but it’s always a good idea to check before you go. Some smaller restaurants may only accept cash.

4. Can I make a reservation at a restaurant in Porto Ercole?

Yes, it’s always a good idea to make a reservation at a restaurant in Porto Ercole, especially during peak season. You can usually make a reservation by phone or email.

5. What is the best time to eat dinner in Porto Ercole?

The best time to eat dinner in Porto Ercole is between 8-9 pm. Most restaurants don’t start serving dinner until around 7:30 pm, and the locals usually eat later in the evening.

6. Are there any vegetarian or vegan restaurants in Porto Ercole?

While most of the restaurants in Porto Ercole do serve meat and seafood, there are some vegetarian and vegan options available. Be sure to check the menu or ask the server for recommendations.

7. What is the typical cost of a meal in Porto Ercole?

The cost of a meal in Porto Ercole can vary depending on the restaurant and the dishes you order. On average, you can expect to pay around €30-40 per person for a three-course meal with wine.

8. What is the best time of year to visit Porto Ercole for food?

The best time of year to visit Porto Ercole for food is in the summer months, from June to September. This is when many of the restaurants offer seasonal dishes featuring fresh local ingredients.

9. Can I bring my own wine to a restaurant in Porto Ercole?

Some restaurants in Porto Ercole may allow you to bring your own wine, but it’s always a good idea to check beforehand. You may be charged a corkage fee for bringing your own wine.

10. What is the best way to get to Porto Ercole?

The best way to get to Porto Ercole is by car. The town is located about 150 km from Florence and 150 km from Rome. There is also a train station in nearby Orbetello, which is about 10 minutes from Porto Ercole by car.

11. Is tipping expected in restaurants in Porto Ercole?

Tipping is not always expected in restaurants in Italy, but it’s always appreciated. A tip of 10% is usually sufficient for good service.

12. What is the best dish to try in Porto Ercole?

One of the best dishes to try in Porto Ercole is spaghetti alle vongole (spaghetti with clams). This dish is made with fresh