
La Talpa
Experience authentic Italian cuisine within the ancient, atmospheric setting of Matera's Sassi, a truly memorable dining adventure.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
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La Talpa

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Experience authentic Italian cuisine within the ancient, atmospheric setting of Matera's Sassi, a truly memorable dining adventure.
"One of the best pizzas in Italy is made in Matera. Truly incredible."
Book Ahead
Make reservations well in advance to guarantee a table, especially during peak seasons.
Try the Pizza!
Don't miss the pizza, praised for its exceptionally light and delicious crust.

Quick Facts
Cuisine
Italian
Price
Mid-range
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Underground Cave Dining
Dine in a unique, ancient cave setting, offering an unforgettable atmosphere in Matera's Sassi.

Exceptional Pizza
Experience pizza with an unbelievably light, digestible, delicious, and crunchy crust.

Local Ingredients & Regional Dishes
Savor authentic dishes made with local ingredients, showcasing the best of Basilicata's culinary tradition.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Book Ahead
Make reservations well in advance to guarantee a table, especially during peak seasons.
Try the Pizza!
Don't miss the pizza, praised for its exceptionally light and delicious crust.
Be Patient
Some diners report long waits for orders; consider this when planning your meal.
Ask for Recommendations
The owner is known for providing seasonal recommendations and wine pairings.
Tips
from all over the internet
Book Ahead
Make reservations well in advance to guarantee a table, especially during peak seasons.
Try the Pizza!
Don't miss the pizza, praised for its exceptionally light and delicious crust.
Be Patient
Some diners report long waits for orders; consider this when planning your meal.
Ask for Recommendations
The owner is known for providing seasonal recommendations and wine pairings.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
La Talpa offers a unique dining experience in Matera's Sassi, with many praising its exceptional pizza and distinctive cave setting. However, some reviews mention inconsistencies in service and food quality, suggesting a potential difference in treatment between locals and tourists, and longer than expected wait times for dishes.
"My experience at this restaurant was a great and incredible surprise. I came in with the intention of eating local food, not pizza. But in the end I ordered the pizza 'Ndujata. I am a pizza expert from Accademia Pizzaioli and a judge at the World Pizza Championships. I was amazed from the first bite. The dough was extraordinarily light, digestive, delicious and crunchy at the same time. UNBELIEVABLY.
I came to the conclusion that one of the best pizzas in Italy is made in Matera. Really crazy and incredible."
Zoran Јovanovski
"went twice which probably was our mistake. first time food was really good not the service. second time both were not good!! they don’t treat tourists the same as locals! wouldn’t recommend it."
Lisa Wiseberg
"La Talpa, nestled in the captivating setting of Matera, presents itself as a pizzeria, yet my recent lunch experience left me feeling it caters more towards tourists than those seeking an authentic Italian culinary experience. While the location itself is undoubtedly appealing, the offerings and policies left something to be desired.
One of the most perplexing aspects of my visit was the unavailability of pizza during lunchtime. Despite clearly identifying as a pizzeria, the menu presented at midday focused on pasta dishes and other, generally more expensive, options. When I inquired about this, the explanation provided was unclear and ultimately unsatisfying. For a restaurant branding itself as a pizzeria, the absence of its signature dish during a standard mealtime is quite puzzling.
The food I did sample was, in my opinion, average. While not offensive, it lacked the distinct flavors and quality I've come to expect from genuine Italian cuisine. It felt as though the dishes were geared towards a broader, less discerning palate, perhaps prioritizing speed and ease of preparation over authentic taste.
The overall atmosphere seemed pleasant enough, likely benefiting from the unique charm of Matera itself. However, the focus appeared to be on capitalizing on the tourist traffic rather than delivering a truly authentic and satisfying Italian dining experience.
In conclusion, while La Talpa benefits from its location, those seeking a genuine taste of Italy, particularly pizza for lunch, might find this restaurant to be an average and somewhat disappointing choice. It seems to prioritize a tourist-friendly approach over the culinary authenticity one might hope for in a city like Matera.
edit: response of the owner say it all"
Zlatko Mahic
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
The restaurant is famed for its dining rooms set within ancient underground caves, offering a truly unique atmosphere.
Yes, it is highly recommended to make reservations well in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons.
Many reviewers rave about the pizza, specifically its light and delicious crust. Regional pasta dishes are also highly recommended.
Some reviews indicate that service can be slow, and there are mentions of tourists receiving different treatment than locals.
While La Talpa is a pizzeria, some diners have reported that pizza was not available during lunchtime.
The restaurant offers a selection of regional wines, and the owner is known to provide pairings.
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Best restaurants Basilicata
With plates of Lucanian (aka Basilicatan) antipasti joined by interesting piatti (perhaps wholewheat pasta with chickpeas and truffle shavings) and pizza, La Talpa manages to cover most bases.
Matera: A Perfect Mix Of Ancient Cave Dwellings, Dalí, Hip Bars, and Wine!!
Our first evening our hotel made us a reservation at La Talpa, since our first couple options were “booked.” La Talpa was just across from our hotel, so I’m not sure if everything was indeed booked on a Monday night… La Talpa also gets mediocre reviews on the various websites, so I was not thrilled. Our dinner, however, was pretty good, and I am not totally opposed to returning. I ordered pizza with the local Lucian sausage and Dan went with the Lucian sausage platter.
What Once Used To Be Old Cave Dwellings In Matera, Italy, Are Now Dine
For complete immersion into your meal, you must visit La Talpa (latalparistorante.it), where Wi-Fi doesn’t penetrate the stone walls but Italian classics and local wines demand a #latergram. You will struggle to choose one from the many antipasti available, but the friendly owner is always at hand with seasonal recommendations and wine pairings. I relished the spaghetti in lemon sauce topped with truffle shavings.
Restaurants in Matera
Matera’s caves don’t get any more inviting than these snug, white-walled rooms hung with old cooking implements and filled with cozy, gingham-topped tables. The homey setting is suited for such local dishes as purea di fave con cicorielle di campo (broad bean puree with chicory) or…
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit