Ristorante Parco Paradiso

Tucked away in the countryside near Cupello, just a short drive from Vasto, Ristorante Parco Paradiso feels like stumbling upon a secret garden where incredible food happens to be served. This family-run gem sits surrounded by olive groves and rolling hills, offering that quintessential Abruzzese dining experience that locals have been keeping mostly to themselves.

The kitchen focuses on traditional regional cuisine with a modern touch, showcasing the incredible produce from this fertile corner of Abruzzo. You’ll find house-made pasta paired with seasonal vegetables, fresh seafood despite being inland, and meat dishes that celebrate local farms. Their risotto changes with whatever’s growing in the surrounding countryside, and the wine list features excellent selections from nearby vineyards that pair perfectly with each dish.

The atmosphere strikes that perfect Italian balance between elegant and completely comfortable. The dining room opens onto a lovely terrace where you can dine under the stars, surrounded by Mediterranean plants and soft lighting. Inside, warm wood tones and local artwork create an intimate setting that feels more like dining at a friend’s beautifully appointed home than a restaurant.

This is where you come when you want to experience the real Abruzzo – away from the coastal crowds but close enough to Vasto for an easy evening trip. The service is genuinely warm without being intrusive, and the prices are incredibly reasonable for the quality. It’s the kind of place where you’ll want to linger over your meal and maybe that second bottle of Montepulciano d’Abruzzo.