La Pignata

Lovely Italian restaurant with a warm and lively atmosphere. The waiters were charming, cheeky, and very helpful — they made the whole experience fun. It felt authentically Italian, with plenty of locals dining there. The food was amazing and well-priced — the lamb paita was a real hit! We didn’t have a reservation and had to wait a little for a table, but it was absolutely worth it.

This is a cute, unassuming place from the outside but we honestly had some of the most delicious and tender food we’ve ever had! We ordered the dried peppers which were great, and then what was described on the English menu as “piglet” with mushrooms and we’ve never had pork like it! It fell apart, best dish from our trip by far! The classic Pignata with melt in the mouth lamb and potatoes was also amazing, and it’s a bit of theatre which is also a plus. The service was great, our waiter spoke perfect English and was super attentive and friendly. Would recommend!

I stopped by La Pignata for lunch while I was staying in Matera and had a great meal! The Pasta Al Pomodoro was delicious - simple yet flavourful. The salad was fresh and tasty. The service was great, and the prices were very reasonable. La Pignata is a great spot, highly recommend!

La Pignata might probably be the best restaurant during our last travel in Puglia region. While Matera is really one of the most beautiful city I have ever been. This restaurant came as a recommendation by an old friend. We tried it out and was not disappointed at all. I ordered the Pignata which is a lamb stew served in a bread bowl. It was very delicious. The staff were also wonderful and has taken very good care of us. Truly a wonderful experience.

This place was recommended by our Hotel. Excellent food, quick service and friendly staff who speak English. The menu is online and looks a bit basic but the food that turns up was delicious. And very good value.

Amazing lamb stew in a special pot with lots of flours and broth, called “The Pignata” as the name of the place. Definitely recommended. Best meal I ever eaten in Italy, and I’ve been in Italy 6-7 times.

La Pignata is where the locals eat! Every single thing we had was delicious and fresh. We ate there 4 times while in Matera. The pasta was homemade and delectable. I am still swooning over the cavatelli soup and the steak dish! They only serve pizza at night, so be sure to go back at dinner to try it. Superb!! Make reservations or get there when they open. Such sweet people!

Traditional Italian food in a cosy, authentic venue. Typical primi and secondi piatti, and pizza (only in the evening). Each dish was of good quality, decent size, and reasonably priced. The service was exceptional - they have both Italian and English speaking waiters. Very friendly and casual. PS. Our kids forgot a backpack and one of the waiters ran two streets to return it to us - I was very positively surprised by his kindness. Thanks!