Il Rifugio della Buana Stella

We find this place after reading a guide book, and we decided to give it a try. The restaurant located in Lecce city center within easy walk from the Plaza where we stay for a night.

When we arrived at 8pm, there were only one table occupied and we can get a table without a reservation.

I was a bit sceptical at first as the place was really empty.  However, inside the building was nice with an arch gothic style and medieval décor and this place is famous for Pugliese food.

Once seated, we get our drinks and bread. The staff was friendly, and the service was prompt and fast.

While waiting for our food, we noticed that more people arrived, and the place get full quickly and many loud noise can be hear from people conversation.  I was glad we come on the right time.

The first antipasto of octopus salad looks great, and taste good. I really like this.  It was fresh with good seasoning and the portion was humongous. If I am here alone, probably I will just have this and nothing else.

Next, we have the mix antipasto.  I am not sure what it was, from the fried cheese, fish, meat balls, etc,etc and it taste good as well. Likewise, the portion was big and I was getting full by then.

For the primi, we decided to share it and we have pasta with meat balls.  The pasta was really good and delicious.  We were very happy with the food here. It was a good find.

For the secondi, I have a fried squid.  The squid was tender and fresh..  I love it and Mickey has a horse meat with curry and fries.  I tasted a bit and it was good as well, however I prefer my fried squid.  Surprisingly, the portion of the main meal was little compare with the starter.

• 

• 

By the time we finish our meal, we could not eat anymore. No space in my stomach unfortunately.   It was a good value restaurant to visit if you are in the area.

When we walked back to our B&B, we passed the cakes shop and we could not resist since our eyes are bigger than our stomach, and bought the cakes to take back to our accommodation and we eat there before we sleep.  It was delicious.

The restaurant is located at Via Prato 28.