Vitantonio Lombardo

The story of this restaurant captures the most authentic essence of the spirit of Matera: an ancient abandoned grotto has been transformed, through a demanding work of restoration, into an elegant dining room that today stands as one of the city’s foremost gastronomic venues. We find ourselves in the very heart of Sassi, and it is practically obligatory to take the time for a stroll through the alleyways of one of the most evocative historic centres in Italy, above all after dinner on an evening visit, when the night lighting gives it all an intense and deeply moving atmosphere, particularly from the belvedere of Piazza Duomo. In the kitchen, the chef demonstrates a profound bond with the territory, frequently drawing upon Lucanian recipes and ingredients that are nevertheless reinterpreted with great expressive freedom, giving rise to results that are both personal and creative. The gastronomic offering is broad and articulated: alongside the most established dishes, new creations find their place, allowing the guest to compose their own tasting journey freely across five, seven or ten courses. The experience may be further enriched by a carefully considered wine pairing, chosen with expertise and sensitivity by the accomplished and professional maître sommelier Donato.