Grotta Palazzese is one of the world’s most unique restaurants, nestled inside a cave in Polignano a Mare, Italy. It’s part of the luxurious Grotta Palazzese Hotel and sits in a natural limestone grotto overlooking the Adriatic Sea, offering an unforgettable view that stretches to the horizon. As the sun sets, the sky transforms into shades of pink and orange, creating one of the most romantic atmospheres on the planet.
The History of Italy’s Cave Restaurant
The Grotta Palazzese cave has served as a natural shelter for thousands of years. In the 17th century, the Palazzese family, who owned the land, built a summer residence atop the cliff above the cave. They began using the grotto as a venue for parties and banquets, turning it from a simple geological feature into a social gathering spot. This early use is well-documented, even appearing in the 1783 painting La Grotta di Palazzo by Jean Louis Desprez, which depicts a banquet taking place in the cave.
Over time, Grotta Palazzese transitioned from a private entertainment space into a globally renowned restaurant. In recent years, it’s gained international acclaim, being featured in many prestigious publications and travel blogs worldwide. Today, it’s considered one of the most exclusive restaurants in the world.
What Makes Grotta Palazzese So Special
The restaurant’s setting is key to its popularity. Located within a natural limestone cave with views of the Adriatic Sea, it combines nature’s beauty with fine dining and elegant decor. The terrace, which accommodates up to 150 guests, is sheltered by the cave’s vaulted ceilings and open to the sea on one side. Guests enter through an unmarked entrance at the top of the cliff, descending a winding staircase into the grotto, where they can enjoy the unique ambiance of waves crashing against the rocks and the refreshing sea breeze.
Reservations, Menu, and Pricing
The restaurant is open only during the warm season, usually from March to October, but if the weather’s nice, it might stay open until mid-November. To book a table at Grotta Palazzese, you’ll need to make a reservation online, as it operates exclusively by reservation.
You can’t choose your table location in advance; seating is assigned upon arrival. However, guests staying at the Grotta Palazzese Hotel get priority for the best seats near the railings with ocean views.
Hotel guests can also enjoy breakfast in the cave restaurant, while those not staying at the hotel can book for lunch or dinner. Lunch is served from 12:30 to 2:00 PM, and dinner from 6:00 to 10:30 PM. Each dining period has a two-hour limit. For dinner, there’s a dress code – men are required to wear trousers, and dressing up is encouraged.
The menu features traditional Italian dishes made with fresh, local ingredients, with a focus on seafood and classic Italian pasta. You can choose from different à la carte or tasting menus, with prices ranging from €195 to €350 per person.
