Fish in the restaurants of Ostuni

Ostuni, a charming town located in the southern region of Puglia, is renowned for its incredible cuisine. With its proximity to the Adriatic Sea, it comes as no surprise that fish is a staple and highlights the menus of many of the town’s restaurants.

Fish in Ostuni is not just any ordinary ingredient on a plate. It is a symbol of tradition, history, and a way of life. Being a coastal town, the locals have an intimate relationship with the sea, and this is reflected in the way they prepare and serve their fish dishes.

One of the most popular fish dishes you’ll find in Ostuni is the famous raw fish or “crudo di pesce.” This dish showcases the freshness and quality of the fish that is caught daily from the sea. The fish is thinly sliced and served with a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil, lemon juice, and a sprinkle of sea salt. It is a simple yet elegant dish that allows the flavors of the fish to shine through.

Another delicious fish dish you must try in Ostuni is the “orecchiette con il pesce.” Orecchiette, a typical pasta shape from Puglia, is cooked to perfection and served with a rich tomato-based sauce infused with freshly caught local fish. The combination of the tender pasta and the flavorsome fish creates a dish that is both satisfying and comforting.

For those who prefer a grilled fish option, the “pesce alla griglia” is a must-try. Freshly caught fish is marinated with a blend of herbs, garlic, olive oil, and lemon juice before being grilled to perfection. The result is a smoky and flavorsome dish that celebrates the natural taste of the fish.

If you want to taste a traditional Ostuni fish specialty, you must try the “tiella di pesce.” Tiella is a type of casserole that consists of layers of potatoes, tomatoes, fish, and onions. The dish is then baked in an oven until the ingredients are perfectly cooked and melt together, creating a delightful combination of flavors and textures.

When dining in Ostuni, be prepared for an array of appetizers featuring small portions of different fish-based dishes. Common examples include marinated anchovies, octopus salad, and baked mussels. These appetizers serve as a perfect introduction to the local fish cuisine and showcase the variety of flavors that can be found in Ostuni’s culinary scene.

To complement your fish dish, be sure to pair it with a glass of local wine. Puglia is known for its excellent wines, and the variety of white and rosé wines produced locally perfectly complement the flavors of seafood dishes.

In conclusion, fish in the restaurants of Ostuni is not just a meal; it is an experience that encapsulates the town’s connection to the sea and its culinary traditions. From the simplicity of raw fish to the complexity of baked casseroles, Ostuni offers a wide range of fish dishes that will delight any seafood enthusiast. When visiting this charming town, make sure to dive into the culinary wonders it has to offer and indulge in the flavors of the Adriatic Sea.