Villa Excelsa - SANNICOLA

The good bits: the place is lovely, nice decor, quiet. The starters were rather good. The not so good bits: it took over an hour for one of the two starters to arrive, and about 5 mins later the second starter came, followed by the two mains which were mediocre at best, watery octopus wine sauce did not impress. We did not enjoy being snubbed by the owner and staff who spoke no word of English and made no effort whatsoever, and we were told to wait (using gestures) when we politely asked about our food. I gather if you are a local and know to avoid certain things on the menu the experience can be quite different.

Went for Sunday lunch with local friends from Sannicola who know the owner and his family. The food was excellent, the wine from the owner's family's winery went great with the food. The large garden with palm trees is lovely. Thank you Mino for a great meal and your hospitality!

We went on suggestion of pietro, our host in Santa caterina. This is a very good restaurant: the setting is lovely, the people are nice and authentic, and most importanly of course: the food is great. So we will go back...

Il personale era molto attento alle mie esigenze (allergie alimentari e intolleranze) e cortese. Gli antipasti caldi erano ottimi (saccottini con funghi e cesti di patate). L'unico punto negativo è stata la mancanza di salviette o getto d'aria per asciugare le mani in bagno. Nel complesso, lo consiglio sicuramente.

La cucina è fantastica, il servizio squisito. Torno qui ogni anno per la combinazione di gentilezza e professionalità. In particolare, la signora Angela è il punto di riferimento di questo locale. Un saluto speciale anche a Stefania, la gentile signora bionda e riccia.