Italian surprises: At Eattico, the vibrant tastes of fish and seafood transport diners directly to the sun-soaked shores of Italy
– September 5, 2024 | Text Beatriz Maio | Photos Charlotte Cockayne/Open Media Group
The restaurant stands out as a culinary experience that immerses guests in the authentic flavours of Italy.
Founded by Pietro Caruso and Claudia Perna, this establishment brings a unique twist to traditional Italian cuisine. Their vision combines the rich heritage of Italian street food with innovative presentations that make each visit a memorable adventure.
Pietro and Claudia’s journey began in their hometown of Termoli, a picturesque comune in Italy’s Molise region, overlooking the Adriatic Sea. It was there, in 2018, that they first introduced the concept of Eattico Pesce Di Strada – a restaurant that quickly gained a following for its distinct approach to Italian cuisine.
“Eattico is a different way of introducing Italian cuisine that is not only pasta and pizza,” the couple explains. “The fish sandwich, for example, is a street food concept typical of southern Italy, from Puglia to Sicily.”
This fresh take on Italian food sets Eattico apart, making it an irresistible destination for anyone seeking an authentic and innovative dining experience.
The success of their Termoli restaurant spurred Pietro and Claudia to explore new horizons. Drawn by the charm of Lagos and the allure of the Algarve, they decided to open a second Eattico Pesce Di Strada here.
Despite the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic, the couple remained resolute in their decision. A holiday in the Algarve sealed their fate; within just two months, they relocated their family – two children and a pair of cats included – to embark on this new chapter in Portugal.
In July 2021, Eattico Pesce Di Strada opened its doors in Lagos’ historic centre, infused with the same energy and passion that fuelled their success in Italy.
The restaurant’s décor is a tribute to the sea, with blue and white tones that evoke the Mediterranean, complemented by marine-themed decorations such as colourful octopus plushies, fish motifs on the walls, and fishing nets, ropes and buoys.
This playful yet stylish atmosphere immediately sets the tone for a dining experience that is as much about enjoyment as it is about savouring excellent food.
The name Eattico itself is a clever blend of languages, combining the English word “eat” with the Italian “ittico,” referring to fish or fish market. This fusion perfectly encapsulates the restaurant’s philosophy – bringing together the best of Italian seafood traditions in a way that is both accessible and innovative.
“We wanted to open a different restaurant, one that does justice to the typical Italian cuisine of fish and seafood, but in sandwich form,” Pietro and Claudia share.
This focus on high-quality, fresh ingredients prepared with care is evident in every dish. But for those who prefer their meals sans bread, there’s a wide range of alternative options that showcase the same dedication to authentic Italian flavours.
Among the must-try dishes is the Polponauta, a traditional octopus sandwich that combines the richness of roasted Algarve octopus with a potato cream with wild fennel, spinach, sun-dried tomato, and an octopus mayonnaise made from the animal’s own cooking water. It’s a dish that encapsulates the very essence of Eattico – rooted in tradition, yet elevated by creative touches that make it truly special.
“Alternatively, we give our customers the chance to enjoy our culinary identity tapas-style,” the owners point out.
For lovers of fried fish, there’s the Barchetta (an Italian version of Fish and Chips) and the traditional Paranza (typical of southern Italy) – a platter of squid, prawns, sardines, stuffed mussels, and vegetables breaded with semolina flour and fried in sunflower oil.
The tapas menu also offers an array of options featuring local and Italian seafood. From sardines and codfish to tuna and shrimp, each dish is prepared with the same meticulous attention to detail.
Accompanying these culinary delights is a selection of beverages that ranges from Italian classics like Peroni beer to local Algarve craft brews, artisanal sangrias, and refreshing apple ciders, alongside fresh juices.
What sets Eattico apart is not just the food, but the warm, welcoming atmosphere that Pietro and Claudia have cultivated. Whether you choose to dine indoors or enjoy the lively street scene from the outdoor seating area (where your dog is welcome to join you), you’ll find the ambiance both relaxing and convivial.
The tables are all close together to encourage conversation among diners, fostering a sense of community that reflects the couple’s own friendly, open-hearted approach. “We like to talk to the clients, explain the food they’re eating, help with anything they need, and take lots of pictures, which we share on social media or print and stick on our restaurant walls,” the couple raves. This personal touch has undoubtedly played a role in their success, helping them quickly build a loyal customer base and a circle of friends in their new home.
As you cap off your meal with a glass of Limoncello Bio – a traditional lemon liqueur from southern Italy – or a taste of Portugal’s own port wine or a typical aguardente (firewater), you’ll find yourself already planning your next visit.
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