Osteria

If you ever find yourself wandering through Caernarfon and craving a slice of Italy that goes far beyond your standard trattoria fare, Osteria on Hole in the Wall Street is where you need to be. Tucked inside the charming old-town atmosphere of LL55 1RF, this cozy spot is the kind of place that immediately whispers, “You’re in for something special.”

From the moment you walk in, Osteria wraps you in a warm, rustic vibe. Think soft lighting, Italian touches, and a relaxed yet polished atmosphere that’s perfect for everything from solo dining to a long, wine-fueled dinner with friends. Accessibility is clearly taken seriously here-there’s a wheelchair-accessible entrance, seating, and toilet, making everyone feel welcome and comfortable.

Let’s talk food-because oh boy, this is where Osteria really sings.

Their Bruschetta Goat’s Cheese with Honey and Walnuts is a revelation. The creaminess of the goat cheese, the crunch of the walnut, and the sweetness of honey all piled onto crispy bruschetta… honestly, it sets the tone perfectly. If you’re leaning more toward the savory side, the Bruschetta Funghi is rich, earthy, and heartwarming-simple yet executed with finesse.

For those who like a curated experience, the Vegetarian Platter and Charcuterie Board are fantastic entry points. They showcase fresh, high-quality ingredients in generous portions-ideal for sharing, but no one will blame you if you keep it all to yourself.

Now let’s get to what Osteria truly excels at: pasta. You won’t want to skip the Tagliatelle with Cherry Tomato, Anchovies, and Burrata-a bright, tangy, and creamy combination that tastes like summer in a bowl. But if you’re in the mood for something with depth and a bit of rustic edge, the Wild Boar Ragu is bold and gamey, slow-cooked to perfection.

Craving something indulgent? The Garganelli Pasta with Sausage and Black Truffle Sauce is rich, aromatic, and packed with flavor. It’s the kind of dish that demands you eat slowly, savoring every bite.

Not a pasta fan? There’s still plenty to explore. The Salmon Tartar with Lime on Rucola and Deep-Fried Yolk Cracco Style is inventive and light, while the Tortellini and Pasta Arrabbiata bring their own charm-either comforting or spicy, depending on your mood.

And then-dessert. Osteria doesn’t play around when it comes to ending things on a sweet note. The Trio of Panna Cotta gives you three different takes on the classic, perfect for the indecisive sweet tooth. The Chocolate Fondant oozes rich molten chocolate with every spoonful, while the Chocolate Cake and Chocolate Brownie are deep, fudgy, and thoroughly satisfying. Don’t forget the Cantucci Biscuits with Vinsanto Custard-a delightfully crunchy and creamy pairing that’s hard to find done this well.

Drinks-wise, the wine list is stellar. Whether you’re after a bold red wine, a refreshing glass of beer, or just want to sip on a quality coffee between courses, Osteria’s got you covered. Their drink menu is well-balanced, offering both classic Italian favorites and modern crowd-pleasers.

One more thing that makes Osteria stand out: they don’t offer delivery or takeaway. This might seem like a downside in the era of convenience, but it speaks volumes about their philosophy. This is a place that’s all about the experience-about sitting down, slowing down, and truly enjoying a meal as it was meant to be savored. Every dish feels handcrafted, every plate plated with purpose, and every visit a little escape from the rush of everyday life.

Whether you’re in the mood for a laid-back lunch or a slow-burning dinner, Osteria is the kind of place that delivers a slice of authentic Italy right in the heart of Caernarfon.