Nicole Warne Says Grotta Palazzese Wouldn’t Accommodate Her Vegan Diet | Eater

"An upscale cliffside restaurant in Polignano a Mare, Puglia, is visually stunning and popular for photos but has drawn criticism for inflexible service and overpriced tasting menus. An Australian fashion blogger and Instagram influencer who says she contacted the restaurant months in advance about being vegan with intolerances to gluten, coconut, and cashews reports being told on arrival that the kitchen could not accommodate her, leaving her with a $200 tasting menu that amounted to a tiny bowl of beans, two slices of vegetables and a fruit plate for dessert. She acknowledged ignoring mixed reviews when booking and, while praising the spectacular photo opportunities, concluded that the service and food did not justify the price — recommending nearby local restaurants and a €15 pasta she found far better, while noting many small trattorias might also struggle to provide gluten‑free and vegan options." - Tim Forster