Ristorante La Conchiglia da Patea — Restaurant in Tropea

We ended up at this restaurant by mistake, on our way to the one next door.

The white tablecloths and neatly set cutlery made a good first impression. The waiter was very polite, although it was clear that other staff members struggled with English.

We ordered tuna, which was nicely presented. For the second course, the waiter recommended the fish of the day, and I agreed without asking too many questions. The price of €8 per 100g didn’t seem alarming at the time. But when the bill arrived, it turned out that the portion for one person weighed half a kilo (possibly including the chef’s hand when he weighed it!).

The presentation was non-existent — just a plain fish on a plate, with no garnish or topping. The taste was equally disappointing: no salt, no aroma, no sign of seasoning, and undercooked. Even after generously adding lemon juice, it didn’t help. And I actually like dorado — but this was by far the most expensive (€40!) and the most tasteless one I’ve ever had.

I honestly wish we had gone to the restaurant next door. As for the wine, I’ll give it 2 stars — it was decent. The final “highlight” of the evening: birds flying over the tables and pooping from above. Luckily, none landed in the food — just on the tablecloth. Another guest wasn’t as lucky and got it on her head.

I cannot...

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ 5/5

We were warmly welcomed and quickly seated at a comfortable outdoor table. The service was outstanding, our waiter was polite, attentive, and genuinely helpful, especially as we were eager to try local Calabrian specialties.

The ’Nduja served with bread was fiery, rich, and utterly addictive, a perfect start. The grilled octopus dish was beautifully plated and even better to taste: tender, smoky, and enhanced by saffron potato cream and roasted peppers.

We ordered two different seafood pastas, each offering a completely distinct experience, both exceptional in their own way. Fresh ingredients, bold flavors, and perfectly cooked pasta.

The owner recommended a Calabrian wine that paired wonderfully with the meal. After dinner, we were treated to digestivos and some local travel tips. It turns out the restaurant is run by two brothers, one is the chef, the other a fisherman. You can feel the passion in every dish.

A truly authentic and memorable experience. Highly recommended if you’re...

Finally a pleasure to leave a review in Tropea. This is the best restaurant in town no doubt about it! We dined twice because the food was fantastic and we feel sorry that we tried other places that left us disappointed! Each dish in the menu is made with love and served with perfection! The lobster linguine had an amazing taste that we will always remember. The chef uses his signature sauce that makes the dish delicious! The risotto was fantastic as well, cooked to perfection rice and sea food! Their appetizers come in special sauces as well that are light but give a specific taste that you can’t try at any other restaurant! Simple the best! Service was excellent as well! They provided us with a side place for the shells, like any restaurant should do it but none of the other places we visited in Tropea didn’t. Their deserts and coffee are fantastic, as well! Do yourself a favor and enjoy the best...