Unveiling Puglia with Chef Giorgia Eugenia Goggi

Milan-born Giorgia Eugenia Goggi is one of the most compelling voices in Italy’s contemporary food scene. After various culinary experiences in London, Milan, and Copenhagen, she has found her home in Puglia, where since 2017 she has been the resident chef at Masseria Moroseta, a white-stone farmhouse nestled among ancient olive groves.

Here, her kitchen is more than a place of preparation, it’s a space of storytelling. Food becomes a medium through which emotions, memories, and territory are expressed. Her cuisine is deeply rooted in the philosophy of farm-to-table: the ingredients she uses are grown steps away from her kitchen or sourced from nearby farms with shared values. Each dish follows the rhythm of the seasons, emphasizing what nature offers in that exact moment, no more, no less. Rather than explaining the philosophy of Chef Giorgia Eugenia Goggi’s cuisine (because it’s one that you simply have to taste in order to understand the exceptionality of farm-to-table cuisine), we will unveil some of her favourite places in the region, so that during your next trip you have some top tips to follow.

1. Tell us about you, how long have you been in Puglia?

I moved in 2017, i had planned to stay for only two months for a short culinary residency, but the beauty and charm of the region won me over.

2. Describe Puglia in one sentence

Puglia is all about territory, simplicity and tradition, where the richness and beauty of simple things emerge in every aspect of daily life.

3. Which is your favourite ‘part’ of the region and why?

My favourite part of the region is undoubtedly the countryside, the olive trees, the ancient stone houses, the small family vegetable gardens and the expanses of wild flowers in spring. This combination of natural and architectural elements creates a magical atmosphere and a sense of peace that is difficult to find elsewhere.

4. How does the cuisine differ between the different regions of Puglia?  

The cuisine of Puglia varies considerably from one area to another, influenced by the local geography and culture. However, there are different nuances, but everything is united by a great simplicity of ingredients and techniques. The coasts offer a rich variety of fish and seafood, while the inland areas are known for their agricultural products, such as wheat, olive oil, vegetables and legumes. Each area has its own specialities, but there is always an emphasis on fresh, local ingredients.

5. If you had to choose 3 restaurants, which would they be and why?  

If I had to choose three restaurants, one of them would undoubtedly be Acquasanta in Ostuni. They serve excellent natural wine and every week the kitchen offers small, super-tasty and always different seasonal dishes. Their kimchi sandwich is a masterpiece. The variety and quality of the dishes, combined with the welcoming and super-informal atmosphere of the restaurant, make every visit pleasant and relaxing. The other two restaurants I highly recommend are Trattoria le Zie in Lecce, for its simple and genuine traditional Apulian cuisine, and Cucina Villana in Ruvo, where you can discover the incredible varieties of vegetables and wild herbs, picked and cooked daily.

6. Favourite Pizza restaurant in Puglia?

I really liked Loop in Lecce. Their pizza is thin, well topped and simply delicious.

7. Favourite season in Puglia

My favourite seasons in Apulia are spring and autumn, when there aren't too many people around and you can fully enjoy the natural beauty of the region. Spring brings with it an explosion of colours and scents, with fields in bloom and a mild climate. Autumn, on the other hand, offers warm and clear days, perfect for exploring the countryside and enjoying the last days at the seaside in absolute peace.

8. Favourite Antiques market ?

I'm mad about antique markets and I can honestly say that the best buys are in Cisternino, which is held every third Sunday of the month, and in Ceglie, every fourth Sunday of the month.

I also suggest you don't miss the big market event in Martina Franca in August, a week of non-stop markets with exhibitors from all over Italy.

9. What is your go-to Aperitif drink and where?

I practically only drink wine, if it's not Acquasanta then Sommarco in Carovigno or Affetto in Felline are my favourite choices. Both these places, managed by very good colleagues, stand out for their attention to the selection of natural wine producers.

10. Suggest one art gallery / museum or exhibition for cultural seekers.

One project that is very close to my heart is the one that my friend Jamie Sneider has started in Lecce. Jamie, a talented and visionary artist, has transformed an old building in the heart of the city into a dynamic exhibition space. This place is not just an art gallery, but a real cultural meeting point where exhibitions, workshops and artistic events are held.

10. Favourite natural beauty?

The coastal part of Otranto with its emerald sea, white rock and caves is truly unique. The tranquillity of these hidden coves and the magic of the rock formations are a true oasis of peace and wonder.

Do you also want to discover Puglia? Have a look at our holiday villas in Puglia here.