The Bistrot of Viterbo: Fresh Fish and French Touches on the Road to La Quercia

For over twenty years, the Bistrot of Viterbo, located at Viale Trieste 96, has been a landmark in Tuscia’s dining scene. Balancing elegance and informality, this restaurant has distinguished itself with a cuisine centered on the freshest fish, enriched by refined incursions into French gastronomic tradition, becoming a true “institution” for lovers of fine dining.

An Atmosphere Between Parisian Bistrot and Summer Garden

The restaurant unfolds across two distinct spaces that reflect its spirit:

• an intimate and elegant indoor dining room, recalling the charm of French bistrots;

• a covered veranda enclosed by glass windows, ideal especially in spring and summer.

During the warmer months, the outdoor pergola becomes the perfect setting for romantic dinners or evenings with friends, while the spacious private parking is a notable convenience for guests.

The Cuisine: Art on the Plate

At the heart of the Bistrot lies its cuisine, renowned for the quality and freshness of its fish. The dishes are born from recipes that are simple yet never ordinary, designed to enhance the flavors of the sea without overshadowing them.

Among the most popular appetizers are:

• carpaccios and tartares of the freshest fish;

• stewed baby octopus (moscardini in guazzetto);

• red anchovies with toasted bread and butter, now a must of the house;

• the generous mixed seafood appetizer.

The signature first courses stand out for balance and creativity: paccheri with monkfish and yellow cherry tomatoes, paccheri with baby cuttlefish and pistachio pesto, spaghetti with veracious clams, and gnocchi with scampi.

For the second courses, options range from sesame-crusted tuna steak to the classic mixed grill, monkfish all’acqua pazza, or a masterfully prepared seafood fry.

The French Specialties: A Rare Touch in Viterbo

In addition to fish, the Bistrot surprises with internationally inspired proposals, first and foremost the escargots à la bourguignonne: snails cooked in the traditional way, with garlic and parsley butter, served in the classic dish with shells. A true delicacy for curious palates and connoisseurs, virtually impossible to find elsewhere in the city.

Alongside this rarity, there are also foie gras, selected meat dishes, and refined reinterpretations of Viterbo’s local specialties.

The Wine Cellar and the Welcome

The wine list, broad and well-curated, offers a selection that embraces Viterbo labels, national wines, and international bottles, with particular attention to sparkling varieties. The staff, as many reviews emphasize, is friendly and knowledgeable, attentive in recommending pairings that complete the dining experience.

Opening Hours

• Tuesday – Sunday: Lunch 11:00 AM – 3:00 PM | Dinner 7:30 PM – 10:30 PM

• Monday: Closed

☎️ Phone: +39 0761 344018

📍 Address: Viale Trieste, 96 – 01100 Viterbo

Tips for Your Visit

• Book in advance, especially on weekends.

• Don’t miss the escargots — a true rarity in Viterbo.

• Ask for the catch of the day; there are often off-menu surprises.

• End with dessert: the tiramisù is highly appreciated by regulars.

Why Choose the Bistrot

After more than twenty years, the Bistrot remains a pillar of Viterbo’s dining scene. It combines the best of the sea with touches of French haute cuisine, offering a unique experience that goes beyond the standards of traditional taverns. It’s perfect for those looking for an elegant yet informal address, where food quality and customer care are always at the forefront.

A restaurant that continues to prove itself as one of Viterbo’s unmissable gastronomic stops.

Curated by Viterbolandia – The Tuscia Blog

Last update: September 2025