There are various theories about the origin of the name Tagliacozzo. The most supported theory suggests that it originates from the combination of two Latin words, Talus and Cotium, meaning a cut in the rock. The city is indeed located at the foothills of Mount Civita in a fissure created by Mount La Difesa. The Marsia-Tagliacozzo ski resort is temporarily closed, but visitors can enjoy the Camporotondo di Cappadocia facilities just 29 kilometers away. Local gastronomy primarily stems from the cultivations in the Piana del Fucino, surrounding livestock, and woods, a region rich in biodiversity that influences the table through distinct and well-defined flavors. Here are the top 6 restaurants.
Where to eat in Tagliacozzo
L’Arrosticino
Trattoria. This family-managed establishment is all about the "arrosticino," a typical Abruzzo skewer with small bites of meat, traditionally made from lamb and preferably castrated. The skewers are cooked on a special grill and served with slices of homemade toasted bread drizzled with extra virgin olive oil. The formula here is a fixed menu, including a couple of appetizers, arrosticini (the standard serving is 20 per person), and the house dessert, perhaps a delicious tiramisu.
L’Arrosticino – via Tiburtina Valeria km 102,900 – 320 8468154 – Facebook
Panificio da Maurizio
Pizza. Some eagerly wait in line for a slice of freshly baked red pizza, crispy and thin, while others indulge in the white focaccia with potatoes—a delightful temptation. The heart of the bakery is Mr. Maurizio, better known as Trische, who has turned his small shop with a workshop into a reference point for both Tagliacozzo locals and vacationers. Also worth mentioning is the bread in various formats, especially the one with potatoes, irresistible and remaining fragrant for several days. Opening hours: 8.00 AM to 1.00 PM.
Panificio da Maurizio – via G. Marconi, 24
Giardino Resta
Restaurant. Inside the historical Palazzo Resta, under the protection of the Fine Arts, with a charming garden, this place stands out due to the dedication of the two young managers, Mauro Passalacqua (in the kitchen) and Giorgia Turturro (in service). You can visit for an aperitif, with around 100 available cocktails and tailored delicacies, or for a complete meal. From the open kitchen come dishes (including fish) that are more than satisfactory in presentation and taste. The wine cellar offers regional and national wines along with craft beers.
Giardino Resta – via Orsini, 10 – 393 1998028 – giardinoresta.it
Osteria del Borgonovo
Trattoria. In the heart of the town, in a restored ancient building, this place is noteworthy for offering good food without breaking the bank. Guests are welcomed into well-furnished spaces, with a large fireplace and visible embers, or onto the veranda, to savor a well-executed, straightforward proposal without too much fanciness. Among the options, there are tagliatelle with wild boar sauce, tonnarelli with Chianina ragù, polenta, grilled lamb, beef steak, rabbit cacciatore. Accompanied by house wine and some good bottles.
Osteria del Borgonovo – piazza Duca degli Abruzzi, 47 – 0863 610039
La Parigina
Restaurant. Gabriella Morgante and Maurizio Di Marco Testa, a couple united in life and work, lead this delightful accommodation nestled in greenery yet centrally located. Gabriella warmly welcomes guests while Maurizio reigns in the kitchen, offering a cuisine primarily based on local raw materials, with a creative twist that adds that extra touch to the dishes. You can dine in refined spaces or, during summer, in the beautiful garden. A place for good drinks. The same ownership runs the romantic bed and breakfast, Il Borgo.
La Parigina – via dei Molini, 5 – 0863 68333 – Facebook
La Vecchia Posta
Restaurant. One of the town's best addresses, in a beautiful central palace with elegantly decorated rooms. The culinary proposal revolves around mountain products and traditions, focusing on authentic flavors. After the "antipasto della Posta," the journey starts with fresh pasta with seasonal sauces. For the main course, there’s a wealth of choices between lamb cutlets, beef entrecote with potatoes, sliced beef, and more. To conclude, a delicious version of mille-feuille. Alongside house wine, there’s a solid list of regional and national labels.
La Vecchia Posta – piazza dell’Obelisco, 22 – 0863 66611 – lavecchiaposta.it
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