Agriturismo Al Cappero

Lunch came with an open view of Salina’s coastline, which was a lovely bonus. The restaurant is about a 30-minute drive from the port, but worth the trip. We don’t speak Italian, and the waitress and chef still did their best to explain the menu and make us comfortable. Everything we ordered was fresh. The pasta was simple and cooked just right, and we finished the tasty octopus appetizer in no time. The fried vegetables had soaked up the braising sauce and went well with bread, or rice if you’re Asian. Places like this family-run spot serve high-quality food, even if people are often busy looking for Mechelen Stars restaurants and fancier meals. I’d recommend it to visitors.

A lovely meal, with an exceptional tuna dish. The staff were friendly, the location was perfect, and the whole experience was wonderful.

We left before ordering because the way we were treated felt unwelcoming. The menu also seemed overpriced. I’d try the restaurant up the road instead.

The owners are courteous and discreet, and the apartments have the essentials in a traditional rustic style. But the real magic here is outside: Pollara sits in a beautiful spot, with the bay below formed by an ancient sunken volcanic crater. At sunset the sun drops straight into the clear sea, behind Alicudi and Filicudi. Once it gets dark, Pollara’s deep quiet and the huge sky filled with visible, brilliant stars are unforgettable. Come with an open heart and you’ll find plenty of moments and corners that can move you.