Pizzeria Al Gambero di Palmanova — Restaurant in Palmanova

Ever heard of Palmanova? If not, it's time to "google" it and find out how singular this city is. And was. Humanists have many times imagined "ideal" cities, with Thomas More(Morus) and his Utopia being the most famous, with his concentric concept, but never past beyond theory. An Italian architect passionate about military was able to bring together the resources to conceive and build what was named "the most perfect shaped" town and fortress in the world. I leave it to you to discover why and go back now to our lunch in Pizzeria al Gambero. Unlike the city, it is not so impressive from the outside, with his small and frugal terrace, therefore you are completely surprised if you step inside: we found it roomy, pretty cosy and very busy at the lunch time. So, we remained on the terrace. Pros: large menu, (in Italian, English and German versions), and whatever we ordered, everything was very good quality. I particularly appreciated the "tagliata din manzo", flavorful and tender. Prices are, like many times in Italy, appropriate. Small, but nice detail: parking is free between 1.00-3.00 P.M., in the city. Cons: some small flaws in the service, (was necessary to repeat some orders being forgotten). Toilets are not sized according to...

We just showed up for lunch on a Sunday 12:30 and managed to find a table for two. Ordered two plates of pasta with clams and and mussels as “primi”. 25min later the brought the pasta. Unfortunately, the table next to us (local Italians) arrived at the restaurant and ordered 10min after us but got their meals 5 min earlier. Just a coincidence, we thought…

The pasta was good but both plates were completely different: one with “vongole” one without. When the server picked up the empty plates we told him about the lack of clams in one dish. He went and came back asking us if we wanted a dish of clams! We said no thank you. Then the main waiter came and said “sorry”.

Then the main of grilled fish came: unseasoned and overcooked. The chef obviously did not pay much attention. Not worth the effort.

After that, nobody looked after us. We wanted a dessert and coffee but were ignored. The table with the local Italian next to us were asked for dessert, of course.

That was it., we decided to leave.

Not sure if this place is aware of the bias against non Italian speakers. A shame. Food was forgettable and service poor. No reason to recommend...

🍕 Pizza in Palmanova – Diavolo & Pizzica

While wandering around Palmanova, we stopped for pizza and tried two different ones: the Diavolo and the Pizzica — and both were seriously good, in totally different ways.

Diavolo

If you like a bit of heat, the Diavolo is your friend. It had that classic spicy salami kick, with a lovely crispy base and just enough cheese to keep things gooey without going overboard. The chili oil gave it a real punch, but it wasn’t just spicy for the sake of it — the flavours were actually well balanced. We’d definitely order this one again.

🧡 Spicy, satisfying, and full of flavour.

Pizzica

This one was more subtle, but maybe even better. Super fresh flavours — think cheesey, hot salami, green olives and anchovies. It tasted like something straight out of northern Italy, light but still really satisfying.

💚 Fresh, rustic, and packed with Mediterranean vibes.

If you’re in Palmanova and feel like pizza, you won’t go wrong with either of these. The Diavolo is bold, the Pizzica is more rustic — but both are absolutely...