La Locanda Degli Artisti

Tucked away in the charming hilltop town of Cupello, just a short drive from Vasto, La Locanda Degli Artisti feels like discovering a secret that locals have been keeping to themselves. This intimate restaurant combines authentic Abruzzese cuisine with an artistic flair that sets it apart from typical countryside trattorias. The name says it all – this is truly an artists’ inn where creativity meets tradition on every plate.

The menu here celebrates the robust flavors of Abruzzo with dishes that showcase locally sourced ingredients and time-honored recipes. Their handmade pasta is exceptional, particularly the rich ragu that’s been simmering since morning, and the arrosticini – those famous Abruzzese lamb skewers that are practically a religious experience when done right. The kitchen also excels at seasonal preparations, so you’ll find fresh porcini in fall and spring vegetables that taste like they were picked that morning.

The atmosphere strikes the perfect balance between rustic charm and artistic sophistication. Exposed stone walls display rotating artwork from local painters, while wooden beams and soft lighting create an intimate setting that feels both historic and contemporary. The dining room isn’t large, which adds to the cozy, almost familial atmosphere where conversations flow as smoothly as the local Montepulciano d’Abruzzo wine.

For American visitors exploring the quieter side of Abruzzo, this place offers an authentic taste of regional hospitality without the tourist crowds you’ll find closer to the coast. It’s worth the short drive from Vasto for a dinner that feels like you’re being welcomed into someone’s home – if that someone happened to be an exceptionally talented cook with an eye for art and a passion for preserving culinary traditions.