Gimmi

One of the best restaurants we’ve visited so far. The matching of flavours was really great, creating a smooth transition from one course to the next. Also, the wine recommendation was a perfect fit. The menu was creatively presented and inspired by the local culture and cuisine. The personnel was warm and friendly as well as professional. The speed in which the courses were served was perfect with enough time in between to create an appetite again without making you impatient for the next dish to be served (we had 6 courses, plus amuse bouche and coffee which took us around 2,5 hours). Last but not least the location was really beautiful. Make sure to see some more of the cloister when you’re there. 10/10 also for the value for money. The quality of food you get is worth every cent.

A memorable experience in a beautifully restored historical setting. Gimmi instantly impresses with its stunning location — a lovingly restored 14th–15th century building that radiates charm and intimacy. The staff were incredibly warm, attentive, and made us feel completely at ease, as if dining among friends. We chose the 10-course tasting menu and it was impressive from start to finish. As someone who trains regularly and eats a lot, I can honestly say I was fully satisfied — which speaks volumes. What’s even better: the chef is happy to personalize the menu based on your preferences (more fish, more meat, etc.). The dishes were creative, balanced, beautifully presented, and rich in flavor. Every detail felt carefully thought out. Highly recommended if you’re looking for a refined, authentic, and relaxed fine dining experience.

This was the best meal during our 2 week trip in Italy. The 4-course tasting menu accompanied by selected wines was amazing.

This restaurant is a true experience from the very start. The setting is beautiful, set within an old monastery. We opted for a 6 course tasting menu. With each course selected by the chef and his team (having been asked about allergies or dislikes prior). From the start the food was an absolute delight. Complimented by truly excellent wine. To top it all off the whole Team are some of the most friendly, attentive and fun i’ve ever experienced when dining.

The restaurant is beautiful, and service is excellent as were the small bites & takes on traditional Puglian classics served throughout the meal. Unfortunately, while our first courses were very good, but our second courses were simply off. To us it seemed like too much was going on on the plate, whereas out first courses were more simple in terms of ingredients. That said, everything was well prepared even though we did not enjoy our second courses at all. It was also hard to understand what the tasting menu options included, so we opted for a la carte. I would recommend that the tasting menu options be made more clear as to what is going to be served. We say that as a couple that has eaten in multiple 1, 2 & 3 star Michelin restaurants in 8 or so countries. I only mention that because in all those restaurants the one common theme was attention to detail in both preparation and allowing simple, seasonal ingredients to be the star in terms of flavor. Based on the service and preparation, Gimmi is very close, just not quite there. It was sort of a bittersweet meal in that it started strong but ended on a very unenjoyable note. When you factor in a cost of almost 200 euros we did not think it was worth it.

A wonderful experience thanks to the restaurant manager Alessandro who made sure to fulfill a very personal request, making our evening special. The restaurant is located in a gorgeous Covent. The plates are very generous and savoury, but also the atmosphere made it one of the best culinary experience for me 🥰

As someone with multiple food intolerances, dining at Gimmi Restaurant in Lecce was a pleasant surprise. I contacted them in advance with my dietary restrictions, and their preparedness was evident from the moment I arrived. The staff, fluent in Italian, English, and French, handled my needs attentively without making me feel self-conscious. This approach turned what could have been an awkward experience into an enjoyable one. Gimmi's menu cleverly incorporates local culture and ingredients with innovative, modern cuisine. The presentation is thoughtful, with serving platters inspired by the building's architectural features and a bread basket designed like a tambourine – small touches that add interest to the meal. Despite my dietary limitations, the chef provided well-adapted dishes that didn't compromise on taste or creativity. The wine list is impressive, balancing local and international options. I particularly enjoyed a chilled Beaujolais paired with my fillet steak – a great choice for a summer evening. Set in a renovated 15th-century Dominican monastery, Gimmi blends historical charm with contemporary dining. The restaurant delivers more than just a meal; it offers a taste of Puglian culture through its food and ambiance. For diners with food intolerances, Gimmi stands out by offering both accommodating service and high-quality cuisine. It's refreshing to find a restaurant that takes dietary needs seriously while still providing an authentic local dining experience.

Thanks to the whole team, which made our stay during dinner fantastic. We had an amazing 3-course dinner and some really good local wine. You can clearly see that the chef and one of his waiters worked for Heinz Beck in the past. Anyway, the location at Chiostro dei Dominicani is really something special. I can clearly recommend this restaurant to everyone during their stay in Lecce.

18 room hotel in an historical 15th century monastery. On site restaurant called Gimmi...executive chef Donato Episcopo. Amazing hotel, unbelievable food at the small restaurant. We were prepared a very unique delicious three course meal. Service is impeccable. Wish I lived closer. Not to be missed if in Lecce, Italy!