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If you are just like me and crave the best local flavors when traveling abroad, you’ve come to the right place! 

Not only will this guide introduce you to the most typical dishes that Lecce and Puglia have to offer, but it will also highlight the best restaurants, bars and cafes where you can experience everything that this unique and delicious region provides.

Since I love eating and actually live in Lecce, I’m always ‘researching’ new local dishes and seeking out the best places to enjoy them in the city. After all, someone has got to do it, right? (hehe 🤭)

Can’t wait to explore Lecce’s best eats? Also, don’t miss my top restaurants choice in Salento!

Partiamo! 🍝🍷

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What to Eat In Lecce

The best way to get to know Lecce’s essence is through its food. Every bite tells a story of Salento’s land and its friendly people. Also, don’t forget to visit some Masserias, it is an experience in itself.

Start your day with a warm Pasticciotto, refresh with a Caffè Leccese, or enjoy a fresh Rustico Leccese during your adventures… there’s so much to taste and enjoy! Also, don’t miss my favorite top breakfast spots in Salento!

And if you are planning a visit to Lecce, make sure to check out our guide on Where to Stay in Lecce for the best spots.

Let’s savor Lecce’s local flavors together, one delicious bite at a time! 😋

Pasticciotto

Kick off your morning in Lecce with a Pasticciotto, an essential experience! This flaky pastry comes with a smooth custard heart and isn’t just for the early birds – it’s a treat any hour of the day. Enjoy it with a shot of espresso for a piece of morning joy.

Pasticciotto comes in various flavors, with the custard being the all-time classic. Personally, I can’t get enough of the crema e amarena (custard and a type of sour cherry) – bold, sweet, and unforgettably good!

Caffè Leccese

You mustn’t miss out on Caffè Leccese, or as some locals call, caffè in ghiaccio con latte di mandorla. A delightful fusion of bold espresso and sweet almond syrup served with just the right amount of ice – it’s unique and just plain perfect!

Caffè Leccese offers a sip of the local culture, and it’s my personal haven during the scorching summer days! ☕

Rustico Leccese

Make room for a Rustico Leccese on your stroll through Lecce!

It’s the local favorite savory pastry, packed with creamy béchamel, tangy tomato, and melting mozzarella—and my top pick for a quick, hearty bite! Plus, there are other fillings to choose from, just perfect for any taste.

Taralli

The perfect snack to pack and take with you wherever you go! This super popular ring-shaped Puglian snack can be sweet but mainly savory, and comes in many flavors like classic, olive oil and fennel seeds, my all-time favorite!

More likely than not, you will be served Taralli of various flavors as a courtesy when you sit down at a bar or restaurant, especially at the aperitivo hour. But eat at your own risk… they are very addictive! 🤣

Puccia

A must-try! It’s the perfect combination of deliciousness and convenience. Puccia is a tasty sandwich made with bread similar to pita bread, baked in a wood-fired oven and then filled with locally sourced ingredients and selections of local dishes, such as meats (meatballs, cold cuts…), cheeses, and a wide variety of raw or cooked vegetables.

Our younger daughter’s favorite filling is pezzetti di cavallo al sugo, a traditional dish from the Salento region made of tender and flavorful small pieces of horse meat cooked in tomato sauce.

Friselle

A local favorite for any occasion! These dry round breads are soaked in water and then dressed with a wide variety of toppings, such as tomatoes, oregano, salt, and a drizzle of olive oil. I enjoy having Friselle as an appetizer for a meal or pairing them with drinks at aperitivo time. It’s the perfect combination!

Main Dishes

Lecce’s cuisine is known for its hearty and flavorful main dishes, many of which feature fresh, locally sourced ingredients.

If you’re looking for a taste of authentic Puglia, you’ve got to try Orecchiette, which means ‘little ears’ in Italian. This versatile pasta can be paired with a variety of sauces, being Orecchiette con Cime di Rapa (turnip greens) a true classic. I’m a huge fan of this dish! The orecchiette are perfectly chewy, and the turnip tops are always cooked to perfection. The combination of flavors and textures is simply irresistible.

If the bitterness of turnip greens isn’t your thing, Orecchiette con Pomodoro e Formaggio, a simple yet super flavorful dish, is another unmissible Puglian classic.

Sagne’ Ncannulate is another pasta dish that’s a real treat. These long, twisted ribbons of pasta are always a hit at our Sunday family meals!

They’re typically served with a fresh tomato sauce and topped with a generous portion of ricotta forte, impossible not to like it!

Also super-delicious, typical Pugliese dishes include Ciceri e Tria (typical pasta with chickpeas and some fried pasta), Fave e Cicorie (fava bean purée and chicory), Bombette (meaning ‘little bombs’ in Italian: small, rolled pork meat rolls typically stuffed with cheese), Polpette di Cavallo al Sugo (horse meatball with tomato sauce), classic Parmigiana and Parmigiana Leccese.

This last one is similar to the classic eggplant Parmesan but kicks it up a notch with the addition of meatballs, mortadella, and boiled eggs.

I could go on and on with this list… Hard to decide? I guess you will have to try them all! 

DON’T MISS MY LECCE GUIDE FOR THE ULTIMATE LECCE EXPERIENCE!

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Where To Eat In Lecce

Breakfast

Start your day in Lecce with a hearty breakfast at one of the cozy cafes scattered around the town, just like the locals!

Having freshly brewed coffee and pastry at your favorite coffee shop, where the barista normally knows your order by heart, is a treasured ritual around here.

And naturally, I’ve found my amazing spot to call my own!

Caffè Alvino

Caffè Alvino stands out as a timeless classic among Lecce’s bars and pastry shops. Their pastries, always fresh from the oven, are absolutely delicious, and their Rustico Leccese is my absolute favorite in town!

It is also known for its impressive selection of irresistible signature dolci (sweet treats); it’s very hard to choose just one!

For breakfast, have a cornetto, the Italian equivalent of a croissant (the cornetto al pistacchio is to die for!), or opt for one of the many flavors of pasticciotto. Pair your pastry of choice with a steaming cup of espresso or cappuccino, or a Caffè Leccese, the perfect way to start the day!

Martinucci Laboratory

Another now popular option is Martinucci Laboratory, a trendy spot with locations in several cities throughout Puglia that has just opened in Lecce in 2023.

While I always prefer sitting outdoors facing the unique Roman Amphitheater and surrounded by the delightful hustle and bustle of Piazza Sant’Oronzo on nice weather days, the room downstairs is beautiful and super cozy for evenings and colder days!

Caffè Cittadino

If you want to have a lovely breakfast right in a very central spot, make your way to Caffè Cittadino.

With its charming and lively outdoor ambiance, Caffè Cittadino is a great place for a relaxed chat, whether for coffee, a light lunch, or an aperitivo.

All three establishments above are conveniently located in Piazza Santo Oronzo, in the historic center, making them easily accessible and central.

300Mila

At 300Mila, you step into a world where the local meets the global, offering a refreshing switch from the classic spots around town.

Here’s a place that’s all about the vibe – chic yet inviting, where the menu takes you on a journey from familiar tastes to international delights. It’s a space crafted for connection, whether you’re here to catch up with friends, get some work done, or just relax.

Besides being a great spot for breakfast or a coffee and snack at any time of the day, 300MILA is also a very popular and amazing place for both lunch and aperitivo – and I’m a regular!

Il Melograno

Heading toward the Adriatic Sea? Make sure to stop by Il Melograno for some absolutely fantastic cornetti, pasticciotti, and other delicious pastries! And when it comes to my all-time favorite spot for breakfast in Lecce, this is the one!

Here are my picks: cornetto ai cereali con marmellata ai frutti di bosco, cornetto alla crema e amarena, and pasticciotto alla crema e amarena. Trust me, they are to die for! 

Cotognata Leccese

If you’re out and about in Lecce and looking for a tasty local breakfast stop, Bar Cotognata Leccese is a great pick. This cozy, family-run spot has been around for decades and locals love it!

Their star is the Cotognata, a traditional quince jelly that’s pure Lecce. But don’t miss their Pasticciotto either—it’s seriously good! And if you’re in the mood for something a bit different, try the Torta Maria, packed with all kinds of flavors like pistachio, fruit, and even a touch of coffee.

More into savory? Their Rustico Leccese—flaky pastry filled with tomato, mozzarella, and béchamel—is always a hit!

It’s a laid-back place, perfect for starting your day or chilling for a bit, the local way. Definitely worth a stop while you’re in town!

Forno Schipa

I came across Forno Schipa recently, and what a find! This family-run bakery has been serving locals since 1950, starting with the grandparents, passing their passion to their son, and now also to the new generation.

Walk in, and the smell of freshly baked bread and pastries instantly pulls you in—impossible to resist! 😋

Their selection is full of traditional Salento specialties like Rustico Leccese, Pucce, Focaccia, and Pizzi, all packed with flavor. I had to grab a Rustico right away, and it did not disappoint!

And the sweet side is just as tempting—Tette delle Monache, Zeppole di San Giuseppe, and, of course, Pasticciotto.

They also have a hot food counter (tavola calda) with homemade pasta dishes (primi) and mains (secondi), all true to local tradition—perfect for a quick but delicious lunch or takeout.

Whether you’re after a snack, breakfast, or lunch, Forno Schipa has you covered!

It’s just a little outside Porta Napoli, so it’s an easy stop if you’re around that area. If you’re in Lecce, definitely stop by—this place is the real deal!

Chicchi & Grani

Chicchi & Grani is a relatively new addition to Lecce’s vibrant coffee scene and it’s quickly becoming a local favorite for its high-quality offer, friendly staff, and inviting atmosphere.

The interior is designed to create a welcoming, stylish setting, making it a perfect spot to relax and enjoy your coffee. Along with their delicious brews, they serve a range of pastries, breads, focaccia, and other light bites to pair with your drink.

At lunchtime, you can also enjoy a variety of freshly made hot dishes (tavola calda), giving you even more reason to stop by!

Street Food (Cibo Di Strada) And Rotisseries (Tavola Calda)

On the go and need a quick bite to eat? No worries, these standout picks will hit the spot and brighten your day!

Just because you’re in a rush doesn’t mean you have to sacrifice flavor. These spots serve up some of the most mouthwatering meals around, and at prices that won’t break the bank.

Remember, you’re in Italy, and even a quick meal is a chance to delight!

Mezzo Quinto

Craving the authentic flavors of Salento’s street cuisine? Mezzo Quinto is the place to be!

From their juicy meatballs in a tangy tomato sauce (polpette al sugo) to the beloved eggplant parmesan (parmigiana), and from the region’s staple orecchiette to a comforting slice of lasagna, their menu is a constant temptation for another visit… and I always do!

Prendici Gusto

This excellent Deli has a wide variety of delicious dishes to choose from, and the prices are very reasonable. Prendici Gusto also offers take-out and delivery, which can be very convenient.

It’s one of my go-to spots for enjoying healthy and authentic local meals when I’m wandering around the historic center and don’t have much time—quick, and easy on the budget—just perfect!

La Foglia Matta

If you are committed to finding an unbeatable restaurant alternative, with an exceptional home-cooked meal experience at great prices, make sure not to miss out on my favorite rotisserie (tavola calda), La Foglia Matta.

Whether you choose to dine in or take away, the food is simply delicious; it is a no-brainer!

L’Angolino Di Via Matteotti

Go to L’Angolino di Via Matteotti for the city’s finest Puccia, the best I’ve ever had! The bread is perfectly cooked, and the wide variety of fillings is fresh and flavorful—simply sublime!

L’Orecchietta

🍴 Local Tip – Whether you’re heading to or from the beach on the Adriatic or Ionian coasts, take the time to visit L’Orecchietta.

This family-owned foodie favorite will surprise you with its selection of freshly made pasta, great fish and meat options, and locally sourced vegetables and fruits.

It is located just 30 minutes from downtown Lecce.

Pizza

No trip to Italy is complete without a perfect pizza!

Heads up: Traditional pizzerias in Italy usually open their doors only in the evenings.

400 Gradi

Pizza aficionados like me, take note: Pizzeria 400 Gradi is your ultimate pizza haven!

With awards like the 39th Top Pizza in the world and 21st Top Pizza in Italy according to the 50 Top Pizza World 2023, you are in for a treat—trust me on this one!

Since reservations aren’t an option, showing up early is your best bet to secure a spot! 😉

L’Antica Pizzeria Da Michele

Those of you craving pizza at lunchtime, do not despair! L’Antica Pizzeria Da Michelli, a renowned Neapolitan pizzeria, recently opened at Piazza Sant’Oronzo and serves its traditional pizza at lunch and dinner!

And let me tell you, it’s absolutely delicious!

Pizza&Co and Il Pizzicotto

Alternatively, for a quick slice of pizza (pizza al taglio) for lunch or dinner, you can’t go wrong with either of these two highly rated and multiple award-winning pizza spots, Pizza&Co and Il Pizzicotto.

Both Pizza&Co and Il Pizzicotto are excellent pizzerias, and I’m into them both! If you prefer classic pizza toppings, made with fresh, high-quality ingredients, then Pizza&Co is the place for you.

While if you’re up for creative and innovative pizzas, made with unique and flavorful toppings, then Il Pizzicotto won’t disappoint you.

Lunch And Dinner

Mezzo Quinto Osteria

Mezzo Quinto Osteria hasn’t been open long, but it’s already my new obsession! Located just outside the historic center, tucked away in a quiet little piazza, the vibe hits the perfect note: casual and local, with the same cool energy you’d find at their street-food spot—only here, it’s a relaxed, sit-down experience.

We went for a relaxed lunch and honestly ended up falling in love 😍. We started with the Antipasto della Casa (made me very, very happy!), then had the Spaghetti alle Cozze (spaghetti with mussels), Maritati con Polpette (yes, pasta with meatballs – and yes, absolutely amazing!), and Polpette al Sugo (meatballs in rich tomato sauce). Every single dish was just so full of flavor!

The menu has lots of Salento classics: Pezzetti di Cavallo (a typical slow-cooked horse meat stew), Parmigiana di Melanzane (eggplant parmesan), Ciceri e Tria (local pasta with chickpeas and crispy fried pasta pieces), Triddhri (a traditional handmade pasta), seasonal veggies, and a few desserts like Torta Pasticciotto with Amarena – definitely don’t skip that one!

I’ve always loved their original Mezzo Quinto for a quick bite, but the Osteria is something else! It’s still unfussy and friendly, but here you get to sit down, take your time, and just enjoy every bite. It’s one of those places you leave already planning to come back. And honestly, I’ve been thinking about their pastas ever since!

Osteria Da Angiulino

Lecce has so many great places to eat, but if I had to recommend just one spot for anyone looking to really dive into the local cuisine, it would have to be Osteria da Angiulino . This place is a total institution, and I’m a loyal fan for good reason!

The menu is packed with traditional Salento dishes, that come piping hot straight from the kitchen—just the way it should be. And let me tell you, the flavors are absolutely amazing.

The atmosphere is so lively and inviting, perfect for relaxing and just enjoying your meal. Plus, the prices are super reasonable, which is just an added bonus too. It’s really the perfect place to get an authentic taste of the region.

3 Rane

Make sure you don’t miss out on 3 Rane restaurant for a fantastic fine dining experience. Besides being one of my favorite places to dine, it’s hard to find anyone who isn’t charmed by this delightful spot—it’s truly a joy!

The cozy ambiance, exceptional food, and flawless service are sure to leave a lasting impression. Treat yourself to their tasting menu to fully grasp what sets 3 Rane apart.

Il Vico del Gusto

When I’m in the mood for top-quality seafood in Lecce, Il Vico del Gusto is always my go-to! This charming spot on the edge of the centro storico is where I know I’m going to have a truly delightful meal.

So, what makes this place special? It’s all about the seafood, of course! They focus on using the freshest local ingredients, and you can really taste the difference in every dish.

The atmosphere strikes a perfect balance—elegant yet cozy, with white linen tablecloths setting the stage for a relaxed dining experience.

The staff are wonderful, taking care of every little detail to make your visit perfect from start to finish. Don’t miss the seafood antipasto with five tastings—it’s a great way to experience the incredible flavors they’re known for.

Gusti Proibiti

At Gusti Proibiti, you’ll find a fresh take on traditional Apulian cuisine with flavors that really pop and combinations that’ll keep you guessing in the best way.

From the moment you walk in, the cozy vibe wraps around you—thanks to the owner and staff who make you feel genuinely welcomed.

The menu is a playful mix of classic and contemporary dishes, all made with the best local ingredients.

And if you’re into wine, you’re in for a treat! Their wine list is all about celebrating regional and national favorites.

So, if you’re after a dining experience that feels just right, this charming little spot should be at the top of your list!

Tabisca il Vico dei Tagliati

If you’re in the mood for something a bit different, Tabisca Il Vico dei Tagliati should definitely be on your radar! Right in the heart of the historic center, this spot is all about the art of Italian grilling in an intimate, rustic setting—perfect for a laid-back meal.

They focus on quality meat, expertly grilled. The menu is straightforward but packed with flavor, featuring cuts of meat that are cooked to perfection.

And if you’re a wine enthusiast, you’ll love their carefully curated selection, which pairs beautifully with whatever you order. Last time, we had Meat Skewers and a Pork Shank with Porcini Mushrooms that was so tender, it didn’t even need a knife!

63 Osteria Contemporanea

63 Osteria Contemporanea is a spot you’ve got to check out if you’re looking for something truly special.

This place is run by an amazing husband-and-wife duo—Chef Anna Rita works her magic in the kitchen, while her husband, Fernando, makes sure you feel genuinely welcome from the moment you walk in.

What I love about this place is how they take traditional Apulian recipes and give them a fresh, modern twist. The food is all about local, seasonal ingredients, so you know you’re getting the real deal when it comes to flavor.

Plus, the atmosphere is so inviting—it’s the kind of place where you can relax, enjoy, and just have a great time!

Da Mimmi – Osteria di Fuori Porta

Da Mimmi – Osteria di Fuori Porta is this cozy little spot just outside Lecce’s old town, and it’s the kind of place that instantly feels welcoming.

The dishes are such an interesting mix of tradition and creativity—I love how they keep it local but still surprise you with the flavors. Everything on the menu feels carefully thought out, with fresh, locally sourced ingredients.

Last time, we started with a Caponata di Melanzane (eggplant Caponata covered with a delicious Burrata), and had Troccolo con Crema di Rape e Nocciole (pasta with turnip greens cream and hazelnuts), Gnocco d’Autunno (gnocchi with pumpkin cream, crispy cured pork cheek, and cardoncelli mushrooms), and Carbonara (a Roman classic though, not typical of Puglia) as our main dishes.

Portions are generous, and for the quality, it’s honestly a very good deal.

The vibe inside is warm and relaxed, perfect for a laid-back meal. The staff is friendly and helpful—it’s definitely worth a visit!

Ristorantino Da Fabio

🍴 Local Tip – If you’re near Lecce and craving some seriously delicious Salentine food, you’ve gotta check out Ristorantino da Fabio. It’s just a quick 20-minute drive towards Maglie, and trust me, it’s so worth it!

The food is super fresh and packed with flavor, especially their seafood dishes. Yummm!

The best part? You’ll get amazing food, awesome service, and you won’t break the bank.
It’s definitely one of my go-to spots, and I’m telling you, it should be on yours too. Thank me later! 😉

Happy Hour (Aperitivo)

I’m a huge fan of aperitivo! – that wonderful moment to chill with friends, sipping a nice drink and having delightful local finger foods, all set against the stunning Puglian sky. It’s simply the best way to wind down!

As the clock hits six, you’ll notice locals flocking to an eclectic mix of bars and cafes. The evening comes alive with a selection of appetizers, from succulent olives and crispy taralli to fresh frise, a variety of cheeses, and petite sandwiches, usually accompanied by a spritz, a handcrafted cocktail, a rich amaro, a glass of robust wine, or sparkling prosecco.

Keep an eye out for apericena too, which means a more generous spread of eats and drinks! Plus, starting at 11am, the bars and cafes also serve a pre-lunch aperitivo, to set the stage for a delicious lunch.

But the aperitivo experience is much more than just enjoying delightful flavors – it’s about connecting, taking it easy, and really living up the Italian way of life!

You can enjoy an aperitivo at the many bars all over the city. Here are my personal favorites:

Piazzetta Santa Chiara

A trendy area for an aperitivo in the historical center is around the picturesque Piazzetta Santa Chiara, where music and lively crowds bring the atmosphere to life. This charming square is lined with eclectic bars and cafes, offering an enticing range of food and beverage options to suit your taste!

La Bottega Fiore

It’s always lovely going to La Bottega Fiore! This charming venue offers outdoor seating and is a hit with the locals. With a fine selection of beers and cocktails, it’s a haven where you can relax, particularly following the lively passeggiata.

Quanto Basta

For crafted cocktails, make your way to the renowned and award-winning Quanto Basta. This street cocktail bar offers ever-trendy drink lists, and it’s one of my favorite go-to spots to unwind in Lecce.

With its informal vibe and friendly service, it’s a place that understands the pleasure of meeting, having fun, and drinking well, becoming a beloved spot for locals and a must-visit for the hippest tourists exploring Puglia and Salento in search of a genuine and high-quality experience.

Caffè Letterario

Caffè Letterario is my husband’s and my unmissable pit stop whenever the evening sets in and we are strolling from the train station to the historic center—a heartwarming tradition!

This cozy cafe is a haven for art enthusiasts and cocktail lovers. Its warm, casual atmosphere invites you to enjoy inventive cocktails, with an impressive collection of over 110 Amari adding a unique flair.

The cafe hosts a variety of cultural events, including reading sessions and book signings. It’s also known for live performances ranging from jazz, blues, and rock to pop, doubling as a café-theatre.

Mamma Elvira Enoteca

To taste wines in a perfect setting, right beside the breathtaking Basilica di Santa Croce, Mamma Elvira Enoteca awaits you! I could spend hours at its charming outdoor tables, enjoying the view accompanied by the amazing local wines and food they have to offer.

Their menu features a variety of traditional Puglian dishes, all made with fresh, local ingredients. This popular enoteca offers a wide selection of Puglian wines, from well-known varieties like Primitivo and Negroamaro to lesser-known gems like Aleatico di Puglia and Susumaniello.

The owners of Mamma Elvira Enoteca also run a restaurant with the same name, La Cucina di Mamma Elvira, which is also very popular.

La Bottega del Corso

La Bottega del Corso is a fantastic spot for an aperitivo, bringing you the best of Salento in a relaxed and welcoming setting.

The star here is their incredible selection of local products. Their charcuterie boards are a real treat—loaded with cured meats, cheeses, and other Salento specialties that pair perfectly with their curated local wines.

It’s all about quality and authenticity, making every bite and sip a delicious experience.

The vibe is laid-back and inviting, so it’s a great place to unwind and enjoy a quiet moment after a day exploring Lecce.

The staff are super friendly and happy to help you find the perfect wine to match your bites.

Il Barrito

Now, if you want to venture a little outside the historic center to experience the local culture and atmosphere of Lecce, the cafe and bar Il Barrito is the perfect spot for you!

This kiosk, immersed in so much greenery, makes you feel in the countryside! With its lively atmosphere, super friendly staff, and delicious food and drinks, it is a totally authentic Italian experience!

In the evenings, Il Barrito transforms into a trendy bar, where primarily locals come to grab a drink, enjoy live music, watch a live soccer game, or simply socialize and catch up with friends. It’s undoubtedly one of my favorite bars in Lecce, I just love it!

Rooftops

For a stylish aperitivo, I love heading to the rooftops of Hotel Patria, or Risorgimento Resort. They offer excellent drinks and top-notch finger foods. It’s the perfect way to wrap up the day!

Make Sure To Try The Local Wines

Puglia has two primary grape varieties that yield exceptional red and rosé wines. Negroamaro produces a delightfully approachable wine, while Primitivo, also known as Zinfandel in the USA, offers a more robust red that perfectly captures the sun-kissed terroir of Lecce.

When it comes to white wines, try the refreshing flavors of Verdeca, or my personal favorite, Fiano. Each varietal offers its own unique charm and adds to the diverse wine culture of Puglia.

Puglia wines are not as well-known worldwide as other Italian wines, which is a shame. I am a true fan, and I highly recommend you try at least one wine from each grape variety. You will thank me later!

Dessert And Ice Cream (Dolce E Gelato)

Pasticceria Natale

I am sure you agree that no trip to Italy is complete without the authentic gelato experience, right? So I got you covered! Take my advice and have your daily fix of some iconic gelato at Pasticceria Natale.

Their commitment to daily fresh, all-natural ingredients translates into an ice cream that’s a flavorful homage to Puglia.

Definitely try the Pistacchio Salato (Salty Pistachio) and Ricotta con Fichi (Ricotta with Figs) flavors – trust me, they’re my top picks for a reason!

There is much more to do in Lecce, check my GUIDE FOR THE ULTIMATE LECCE EXPERIENCE!

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Baldo Gelato

Another favorite of mine in the historic center is Baldo Gelato. This place makes seriously good gelato using only fresh, high-quality ingredients, and you can taste the difference in every bite. It’s not just my top pick in town — it’s also won awards, but honestly, even if it hadn’t, I’d still be obsessed. 🍦

Whether you’re just wandering around, finishing a meal, or suddenly need something sweet (you know the feeling), this is where I always end up. Real Italian gelato, made with care, full of flavor, and totally worth it!

Map Of Where And What To Eat In Lecce

Foodie Experiences

In Italy, food isn’t just food, it’s a way of life—and Lecce is no exception. For those of you eager to learn more about the local food and wine, a food and/or wine tour is the way to go!

There are many great options available in and around Lecce. They’re a great way to get a taste of the region’s gastronomic culture, besides being a lot of fun!

You’ll find a variety of tours right here in Lecce, each promising a slice of the regional culinary tradition. They’re the perfect mix of education, flavor, and sheer enjoyment!

How about firing up your adventure with a bit of cooking paired with some fine wine? The Orecchiette Cooking Class and Wine Tasting in Lecce tour that happens at the Historic Center is highly rated and a great opportunity to blend culinary skills with local vino, giving you a hands-on taste of regional traditions.

Dive into an authentic Italian culinary experience with the highly recommended Traditional Home Cooking Experience in Lecce! Join your hosts in the warmth of their kitchen, prepare some classic Puglian dishes, and then sit down to enjoy the fruits of your labor. It’s not just a class, it’s a memory in the making!

If you’re a street food fanatic like me, always on the quest for best street eats while absorbing the city’s storied past, then the Lecce: Street Food Tasting and Walking Tour is just the thing to top off your day!

If you want to get a real feel for Salento’s wines, you’ve gotta check out Rich Tasting of Salento Wines tour.

Are you into cheese? Set aside some time for a Cheese Tour at Masseria Cinque Santi, an organic working farm located a quick 10-minute drive from downtown Lecce. It’s a great way to learn about the traditional cheeses of Puglia.

The tour begins with a visit to the dairy, where you will learn about the different steps involved in cheesemaking. You will also get to see the cows, sheep, and goats that produce the milk for the cheeses.

After the dairy visit, you will enjoy a tasting of a variety of cheeses, including mozzarella, ricotta, burrata, and caciotta. You will also learn about the different flavors and textures of each cheese. Be sure not miss on Speck Della Nonna and Caciotta Lecesse, our family’s favorites!

FAQs – Where And What To Eat In Lecce

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