Nestled high up on a rock cliff, the small Umbrian city of Orvieto enchants visitors with its mix of history, picture-postcard streets and enticing dining spots.
(Photo: I Sette Consoli)
Widely considered one of the most striking hill towns in central Italy, Orvieto’s appeal is more than surface deep – quite literally. Hidden underneath the town is a captivating underground citadel dotted with man-made caves, tunnels and quarries. Back on ground level, Umbria’s famous culinary scene lures people in from every corner and crevice. Here are 7 of the best places to eat and drink that Orvieto has to offer.
I Sette Consoli
Tucked away in a little square just beyond Orvieto’s main drag, I Sette Consoli draws locals and in-the-know visitors alike. The ivy-draped terrace is a delight on warm days, while inside soft lighting and crisp linens lends an elegant look and feel. As for the food, the kitchen turns out seasonal Umbrian dishes with a dash of flair (highlights include the wild boar ravioli and saffron-perfumed pigeon) and the wine list leans heavily local – as you’d hope in this part of the world. In short, this is the kind of restaurant where you could just as well go full tasting menu as a few small plates while lingering over a glass of Sagrantino and a plate of something wonderful.
La Palomba
(Photo: La Palomba)
Set in a quiet corner just a few short steps from Orvieto’s duomo, this third-generation family trattoria positively oozes quintessential Umbrian character and charm. Its interior is warm and rustic, characterised by exposed brick, wooden beams and candlelight. The fare focuses on traditional regional comfort food like umbrichelli pasta in rich wild boar ragù and table-side shavings of truffles, all paired with local wine such as Montefalco Rosso. The service is relaxed but warm, and there’s often a mix of local families, travelling foodies and off-duty chefs at neighbouring tables.
Trattoria del Moro Aronne
Down a sunlit lane off Orvieto’s Duomo square, Trattoria del Moro Aronne combines a laid-back atmosphere with impressive culinary credentials. The dining room feels reassuringly homely, with simple wooden tables and a gentle chatter emanating from its relaxed patrons. The menu honours Umbria with pride: fresh bruschetta and caprese starters lead into delectable dishes such as pecorino-and-honey “nidi,” pork guanciale and slow-cooked lamb. The wine list isn’t too shabby either, with plenty of local bottles as well as a craft beer option too. Service is warm without ceremony.
Sushi Meile
(Photo: Sushi Meile)
Sushi Meile stands out in Orvieto – not just for its location inside the small, modern shopping arcade near the funicular railway, but because it’s one of the town’s few ethnic eateries. The décor is smart and minimalist, with a long counter and a handful of neat tables that fill up fast at lunch. The menu centres around Japanese–fusion fare, with colourful sushi platters, udon bowls and a few unexpected pan-Asian options too. It’s not trying to be Tokyo in Umbria, but it’s a refreshing alternative to pasta and ragù. They’ve got a short but well-curated sake and wine list, and takeaway is popular with locals.
Le Grotte del Funaro
For a unique dining experience in Orvieto, you won’t find better than Le Grotte del Funaro. Set in a historic Etruscan cave that once served as a rope-making workshop, the restaurant boasts a rustic ambiance with vaulted tufa stone ceilings and candlelit tables. The menu showcases classic Umbrian cuisine, including house-made pasta like ombrichelli with black truffle and wood-fired suckling pig. Their wine list boasts over 300 Italian labels, highlighting regional selections. The multi-level dining rooms provide an intimate setting, and the summer veranda offers al fresco dining with views of the surrounding countryside.
Trattoria Vinosus
Offering a refreshing twist on traditional Italian dining, this centrally-located trattoria features a modern, minimalist interior, its walls dotted with contemporary art, providing an eye-catching contrast with the town’s historic charms. Stand-out dishes include chitarra alla carbonara and umbrichelli cacio e pepe, complemented by a curated selection of local plonk. Whether dining indoors or on the terrace, Vinosus delivers a memorable meal that stands out in this picturesque town.
Febo
This fun and stylish brewpub is tucked away on Orvieto’s picturesque Via Michelangeli and offers relaxed vibes and hearty food. But there’s no doubting the star of the show here – the house-brewed beer produced in their on-site microbrewery that draws lovers of the amber nectar from far and wide. There’s also an impressive cocktail list for those with more exotic tastes. With both indoor and outdoor seating, it’s ideal for chilling with friends, and there are often live tunes and DJ sets to add to the atmosphere.