By Stomach to Heart: the Best Food and Wine in San Nicola Arcella

By Stomach to Heart: the Best Food and Wine in San Nicola Arcella

April 11, 2025

San Nicola Arcella, a picturesque town located on the coast of Calabria, is not only a paradise for lovers of sunshine and beautiful beaches. It's also a true feast for the palate, where traditional Italian cuisine meets fresh seafood and delicious local wines. On this culinary journey, I will take you to the best restaurants, bars and pizzerias where you can savor the authentic flavors of the region and enjoy the hospitality of the locals. Prepare yourselves for an unforgettable taste experience that will make your heart stay forever in this charming corner of Italy.

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Tradition and modernity on a plate

Our culinary adventure begins in the heart of San Nicola Arcella, where you will find 'BastaCosì' - a place that delights not only in taste, but also in atmosphere. It is here that we can taste typical Calabrian products while enjoying a glass of local wine. The owners passionately talk about each dish, and their hospitality makes us feel at home. I especially recommend the plate of local meats and cheeses, which pairs perfectly with Pircoca PGI wine.

If we are looking for a place for an evening aperitif, a visit to 'BarBaRossa' is a must. It's a cocktail bar that attracts locals and tourists alike. Bartender Leo, with his training and international experience, prepares cocktails that are true works of art. Appetizers are served with a variety of appetizers, making it the perfect place to start the evening.

For those who appreciate exceptional views while dining, 'Terrazze Fiorelli' is a must-stop. The restaurant is situated in a picturesque location, away from the summer crowds. The owners are extremely friendly and the menu, while limited, offers dishes prepared with fresh, local ingredients. I especially recommend trying the homemade sauces, which are the hallmark of the place.

Also not to be missed is 'Caffè Le Mele di Christian Mele', the historic San Nicola Arcella cafe. This is not only a place where we can drink delicious coffee, but also a music club where live concerts are held in the summer. The owner, Christian, is a musician, which adds a special touch to the place. Be sure to try the freshly stuffed croissants here - it's a real feast for the palate.

Culinary discoveries for every palate

The next stop on our culinary map is the 'Crawford Pub' - a place that impresses not only with its variety of craft beers, but also with its cuisine. It's the perfect place for those looking for something more than traditional Italian cuisine. Scotton's burger is a real hit - juicy, perfectly cooked, with tender meat that melts in the mouth. The service here is extremely friendly and professional, and the atmosphere is conducive to relaxation and good food.

For lovers of seafood and refined cuisine, 'Figli di Bottarga' is a must-visit place. The restaurant impresses not only with the taste of the dishes, but also with their presentation. The menu is carefully thought out, with an emphasis on fresh, seasonal produce. The citrus risotto with shrimp and the tuna Strozzaprete alla Genovese are worth noting - they are dishes that linger in the memory for a long time. The sommelier provides advice on wine selection, which further enhances the taste experience.

If you're dreaming of a pizza that will take you straight to the heart of Italy, 'Johnny's Pizzeria' is a place you can't miss. The dough here is light, fragrant and perfectly baked, and the toppings are always fresh and high quality. The variety of pizzas on offer will satisfy even the most demanding palates. What's more, the owner often takes personal care to satisfy guests, which adds a personal touch to the visit.

Ristorante Oriente' is another gem on the culinary map of San Nicola Arcella. It specializes in fish and seafood dishes, which are always fresh and prepared with extreme attention to detail. Tuna and swordfish are the real stars of the menu - tender, juicy and perfectly seasoned. The atmosphere of the restaurant is friendly and family-oriented, and the owner, who is also a musician, often makes the evenings more pleasant for guests by playing the piano.

Stabilimento Balneare Ristorante Bar Arcomagno' is not just a restaurant, but a true culinary experience. Located directly on the beach, it offers unforgettable views of the sea and Dino Island. The menu focuses on fresh fish and seafood, and the dishes are prepared with passion and craftsmanship. I especially recommend trying the paccheri allo scoglio - it's a true explosion of Mediterranean flavors.

Flavors, that stay in your memory

Our culinary tour of San Nicola Arcella would not be complete without a visit to 'Ristorante La Marinella'. It's a place that has been popular with locals and tourists alike for years. It is primarily known for its delicious seafood, especially the shrimp, which are exceptionally sweet and tender here. The owner, Claudio, and his daughter create an extremely friendly atmosphere, making every meal an unforgettable experience.

To sum up our culinary adventure, it is worth noting the variety and richness of flavors that San Nicola Arcella offers. From traditional Italian pizzerias to sophisticated fish restaurants to cozy bars serving local specialties, each place has its own unique atmosphere and character.

Comparing the venues visited, it is difficult to identify a clear winner. Each has its own strengths and specialties. 'BastaCosì' and 'BarBaRossa' are ideal places to start the evening, offering excellent aperitifs and snacks. 'Terrazze Fiorelli' and 'Stabilimento Balneare Ristorante Bar Arcomagno' impress with their locations and views, which further enhance the taste of the dishes served.

For pizza lovers, 'Johnny's Pizzeria' will be a true paradise, while 'Figli di Bottarga' and 'Ristorante Oriente' will satisfy the most demanding gourmets looking for sophisticated flavor combinations.

As for prices, most establishments are in the moderate range, making them accessible to a wide range of guests. The exception may be 'Figli di Bottarga', where prices are slightly higher, but fully justified by the quality and uniqueness of the dishes.

Whether you're a lover of seafood, traditional Italian cuisine or looking for a new culinary experience, San Nicola Arcella has something to offer for everyone. It is worth remembering that the taste of the food is not the only asset of the restaurants here. It is also the extraordinary hospitality of the owners and staff, the beautiful views and the unique atmosphere that make every meal a unique experience.

When visiting San Nicola Arcella, remember to let yourself be carried away on a culinary adventure. Let's not be afraid to ask for recommendations, try local specialties and enjoy every moment spent in these unique places. Because it is through the stomach that you can most easily reach the heart of this charming Calabrian town.

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