Bari, the vibrant capital of Puglia, Italy, is a charming port city where history, culture, and mouthwatering cuisine collide. Its picturesque old town (Bari Vecchia) is a maze of narrow alleyways, where you can wander for hours, discovering hidden gems at every turn. When it comes to food, Bari—and Puglia as a whole—is a paradise for food lovers. Known for its fresh, local ingredients and simple yet flavorful dishes. With so many incredible restaurants to choose from, I’ve narrowed it down to my top three favorites—each offering something unique and absolutely delicious!
Borgo Antico R45:
Borgo Antico R45 is a feast for both the eyes and the taste buds. Nestled in the heart of Bari’s old town, this charming restaurant offers a magical dining experience. Grab a table outside in one of the narrow, picturesque alleyways. The ambiance is a perfect blend of stylish charm and elegant decor, making it an ideal spot for a romantic dinner or a relaxed afternoon meal.
While the prices are slightly on the higher side, the quality of the food makes it absolutely worth it. Borgo Antico R45’s pasta dishes are outstanding—especially the Cacio e Pepe, which is rich, creamy, and perfectly balanced. I loved this place so much that, despite only staying in Bari for four nights, I dined here twice—once for lunch and once for dinner. If you’re a seafood lover, you’ll find plenty of fresh options to choose from. But one dish that truly stood out to me was the Orecchiette con Cime di Rapa. A classic Puglian specialty made with orecchiette pasta and broccoli rabe. It had a wonderfully earthy, slightly bitter flavor that highlighted the region’s love for simple, local ingredients.
Borgo Antico R45 is a must-visit for anyone looking to enjoy authentic Puglian cuisine in a stunning setting!
Pizzeria Di Cosimo:
If you’re craving an incredible slice of Bari-style pizza, look no further than Pizzeria Di Cosimo—hands down my favorite spot for pizza in the city! Unlike the famous Neapolitan style, Bari pizza has a slightly thicker crust with a satisfying crunch, making it a deliciously unique experience.
The vibe here is lively, casual, and downright fun. You simply place your order, grab a seat on the terrace (if you’re lucky), and wait for them to call you number. Be warned—this place gets packed, and for good reason! When I first stopped by around 7 PM on a Sunday, the line was already wrapped around the building. The entire courtyard was filled with people drinking, chatting, and devouring fresh-out-of-the-oven pizza while standing up. It’s not just a meal—it’s an experience.
Pizzeria Di Cosimo is more than just a great place to eat; it’s a fantastic spot to soak in the local energy and meet people from all over the world. Whether you’re a pizza aficionado or just love discovering authentic local gems, this is one stop you won’t want to miss in Bari!
Al Sorso Preferito:
One dish you must try while in Bari is Spaghetti all’Assassina—a bold, spicy, charred pasta that’s unlike anything else. I had the pleasure of trying this dish at Al Sorso Preferito. Instead of being boiled, the pasta is cooked directly in a pan, absorbing a rich, smoky tomato sauce with a fiery kick. It’s one of Bari’s most famous dishes, so naturally, I was on a mission to find a place that did it justice.
The crispy, slightly caramelized edges and deep, savory flavors reminded me a little of chow mein—but with a uniquely Italian twist. It was unlike any pasta I’ve ever had before.
I chose to sit outside because it was a perfect summer night, and the ambiance only made the meal more enjoyable. The restaurant gets very busy, so I highly recommend making a reservation. Along with the Spaghetti all’ Assassina, I couldn’t resist ordering the baked mussels. The mussels were topped with a golden layer of breadcrumbs and Parmesan cheese. Simply put, they were delicious—perfectly briny, crispy, and full of flavor.
If you’re looking to experience authentic Bari cuisine, Al Sorso Preferito is an absolute must-visit!
What’s the best meal you’ve ever had while traveling? Let’s swap food stories!
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