A combination of sea and art: this is Osteria di Chichibio
Since 2024, Massimiliano Di Lauro and his wife, Vittoria Scagliusi, have been the new owners of the historic Osteria di Chichibio in Polignano a Mare, close to Bari. He is a professional in the restaurant industry with over twenty years of experience, while she is a former manager of an important American company. They embarked on this adventure to fulfill their dream of managing their own restaurant. However, their new management has not disrupted the habits of regular customers: Osteria di Chichibio remains one of the landmarks of the city of Polignano a Mare.
Fish cuisine is the restaurant’s strong suit, in a city that overlooks the sea. Osteria di Chichibio offers dishes tied to the traditional Bari-style raw fish: the most popular dishes are the carpaccio, the tartare, paccheri with scorpion fish (large pasta tubes served with a rich, flavorful scorpion fish sauce), shrimp risotto, local lobster Catalan-style (local lobster served with a Mediterraneanstyle tomato, onion, and olive salad), and lobster.
Additionally, it is possible to choose a dish off the menu, available based on the catch of the day. In fact, seafood is purchased on the same morning, and the day’s menu is decided according to what the sea offers each day. The desserts are entirely made in the restaurant’s kitchen and, although there is no dedicated line for it, the osteria also caters to those with celiac disease, preparing glutenfree dishes.
Customers of Osteria di Chichibio are welcomed by a refined and cozy atmosphere, with its vaulted ceilings in light, bright colors, and decorations created by local Puglian artists, aimed at promoting the local culture. Halfway between the art of music and the crystal-clear waters of the Adriatic Sea, a visit to Osteria di Chichibio allows guests to enjoy the seaside air in an artistic city, birthplace of Domenico Modugno. Just a short walk from the restaurant stands the statue of the singer, which customers can easily reach and admire.
During the warmer season, when outdoor tables are available overlooking Piazza Gelso, it’s possible to enjoy a meal while admiring the statue. It is no coincidence that this restaurant has become a popular destination for many Italian celebrities. Come and discover the perfect blend of tradition, flavor, and artistry—your table awaits!
