Ristorante Glicolei

Ristorante Glicolei sits in Cala Gonone, the small former fishing village on Sardinia's east coast that serves as the gateway to the spectacular beaches and sea caves of the Gulf of Orosei. With the sea on its doorstep, the restaurant builds its reputation on impeccably fresh fish brought in by local boats, prepared in the clean, direct style that lets the quality of the catch shine. The standout is spaghetti con ricci di mare — spaghetti with sea urchin — a dish that, when the urchins are in season, ranks among the finest expressions of east-Sardinian seafood cooking. Grilled fresh fish of the day and a bottarga starter further showcase the produce of these waters. The setting, in a village framed by the dramatic limestone cliffs of the Supramonte meeting the sea, adds to the appeal, and the relaxed, unfussy atmosphere suits Cala Gonone's role as a base for boat trips to Cala Luna, Cala Mariolu and the Grotta del Bue Marino. The restaurant operates through the warmer months, roughly April to October, in line with the visitor season, and a reservation is recommended in summer when the village fills with beachgoers. Because the sea urchin is seasonal, it is worth checking whether it is available on the day rather than assuming. Prices sit around €40–€60 per person, and the wine list favours Sardinian whites that flatter the seafood. Glicolei suits travellers exploring the Gulf of Orosei who want well-sourced, fresh fish — above all its celebrated sea-urchin pasta — in an authentic coastal-village setting, and who appreciate a kitchen that keeps its preparations simple to let the east-coast catch speak for itself.