hero image of Old Friend Cagliari

BIB GOURMAND

Old Friend Cagliari

Cagliari, Italy

Old Friend Cagliari: A culinary gem in Sardinia's heart

Nestled in the vibrant streets of Via Giuseppe Abba, Old Friend Cagliari invites food lovers to explore an extraordinary fusion of Sardinian and Persian flavors. This innovative restaurant offers a seasonally rotating tasting menu that delights the palate with inventive, well-executed dishes. From the moment you step inside, the warm and impeccable service ensures a memorable dining experience in a setting that buzzes with a unique and inviting vibe.

Why Old Friend Cagliari stands out

Known for its thoughtful culinary craftsmanship, Old Friend seamlessly blends local Sardinian ingredients with exotic Persian influences. The tasting menu showcases a symphony of flavors, from the delicate textures of dishes to surprising ingredient combinations like salted caramel with shiitake mushrooms and homemade peanut butter. Guests often highlight the exceptional dessert selection, praised as some of the best in their lives.
Outdoor seating allows diners to enjoy the charming Cagliari atmosphere, while the well-curated wine list features local bio wines that perfectly complement each course. Attentive staff and an eclectic ambiance make it a perfect spot for groups and food adventurers alike.

What visitors love about Old Friend Cagliari

  • Inventive tasting menu that balances local and global flavors with precision.
  • Outstanding dessert creations with unexpected, delightful flavor pairings.
  • Attentive and warm service that makes every guest feel welcome and valued.
  • Relaxed yet sophisticated vibe perfect for both casual lunches and elegant dinners.

Plan your visit to Old Friend Cagliari

Located at Via Giuseppe Abba, 51, this restaurant welcomes guests from Wednesday to Saturday for lunch and dinner, and Sunday for lunch. It's advisable to reserve your table in advance to secure your spot, especially during busy times. Parking is convenient with free street options nearby, and the restaurant is equipped to accept various payment methods including credit cards and NFC payments.

Frequently asked questions

  • What is the tasting menu at Old Friend Cagliari? The tasting menu is a multi-course selection of the chef's seasonal dishes, offering a comprehensive experience of the restaurant's culinary offerings.
  • Is there a wine pairing option available? Yes, Old Friend Cagliari offers a curated selection of local bio wines to complement the tasting menu.
  • Do I need to make a reservation? It is recommended to make a reservation in advance, especially during peak hours, to ensure a table.
  • Is the restaurant suitable for vegetarians? Yes, the restaurant offers vegan and vegetarian options alongside non-vegan choices.
  • What are the operating hours of Old Friend Cagliari? The restaurant operates from Wednesday to Saturday, with lunch and dinner services, and on Sunday for lunch. It is closed on Mondays and Tuesdays.

Old friend Cagliari history overview

Nestled in the heart of Cagliari, Italy, Old Friend Cagliari — also known as Old Friend Bistrot — has quickly become a culinary gem since its inception. Opening its doors in 2018, this restaurant carved a unique niche by masterfully fusing the rich flavors of Sardinian cuisine with the exotic spices of Persian cooking. The vision of Chef Dario Torabi, the kitchen offers a dynamic seasonal menu that reflects his passion for fresh, high-quality ingredients and innovative culinary artistry.

milestones and culinary evolution

Old Friend Cagliari's journey is marked by significant milestones that highlight its dedication to quality and creativity. Just a year after opening, in 2019, the restaurant earned recognition in the prestigious Michelin Guide, securing a Bib Gourmand distinction. This accolade celebrated the restaurant’s excellent value and outstanding dishes, distinguishing it in Cagliari's competitive dining scene.
In 2020, Chef Torabi unveiled a refreshed seasonal menu that deepened the restaurant’s fusion concept, blending Sardinian freshness with Persian exoticism to offer guests an ever-evolving taste experience. The following year, the culinary world and patrons alike praised Old Friend Cagliari for its innovative dishes and impeccable service, cementing its reputation as a top-tier dining destination.
  • 2018 Opening Old Friend Cagliari opens in the vibrant city of Cagliari, introducing a fresh culinary concept.
  • 2019 Michelin Recognition The restaurant is featured in the Michelin Guide, awarded the Bib Gourmand for exceptional quality and value.
  • 2020 Seasonal Menu Revamp Chef Dario Torabi introduces a new menu blending Sardinian and Persian flavors, reflecting seasonal freshness.
  • 2021 Acclaimed Reviews The restaurant gains praise for its inventive dishes and attentive, warm service from local and international guests.
  • 2022 Wine Pairings Added The dining experience is enriched with a curated wine selection, perfectly complementing the eclectic menu.

why old friend cagliari stands out

Old Friend Cagliari offers more than just a meal; it presents a vibrant cultural dialogue through cuisine that captivates food lovers and travelers alike. Its commitment to blending Sardinian tradition with Persian innovation has created a dining destination celebrated for both its bold flavors and elegant presentation. Regular updates to the menu ensure a fresh experience with each visit, while the warm, attentive service invites guests to feel genuinely welcomed. The inclusion of expert wine pairings further elevates the gastronomic journey, making it a must-visit spot for discerning palates exploring Cagliari.

Discover the Unique Culinary Experience at Old Friend Cagliari in Italy's Sardegna Region.

Nestled in the heart of Cagliari on Via Giuseppe Abba, Old Friend Cagliari offers food enthusiasts an innovative fusion of Sardinian and Persian cuisines that delights with every bite. Known for its creative and flavorful dishes, this restaurant uses seasonal and fresh ingredients to craft unique menus that capture the essence of both culinary traditions.

Ambiance and Service Highlights

The atmosphere at Old Friend is both trendy and welcoming, offering a unique vibe that complements its inventive menu. Diners appreciate the attentive and friendly service, which enhances the overall dining experience. The option for outdoor seating adds charm, especially during pleasant weather, making it an ideal spot for groups or special occasions.

Menu and Dining Options

Old Friend Cagliari serves a thoughtfully curated tasting menu that showcases eclectic combinations such as lumberjack fish with pico de gallo and salted caramel desserts infused with shiitake mushrooms and homemade peanut butter. The restaurant also offers cocktails, beer, wine, coffee, and desserts to complement your meal. While portions tend to be on the smaller side, guests report feeling satisfied and consider the experience excellent value for the quality served.

Practical Information and Considerations

  • Reservations recommended due to the venue's growing popularity and limited seating.
  • Acoustic challenges can arise during peak hours, potentially affecting conversation quality.
Overall, Old Friend Cagliari stands out as an exciting destination for food lovers seeking a blend of Sardinian and Persian flavors paired with a modern, welcoming environment. Its innovative approach, seasonal ingredients, and attentive service make it a must-visit spot in Sardegna, with a few practical tips to ensure a flawless experience.

Old Friend Cagliari: A Culinary Gem in the Heart of Sardinia's Capital

Nestled on Via Giuseppe Abba in picturesque Cagliari, Old Friend Cagliari is where traditional Sardinian charm meets contemporary culinary creativity. This intimate restaurant has quickly become a must-visit destination for food lovers seeking an innovative dining experience with an inviting, warm ambiance.

Innovative Seasonal Tasting Menu

At the heart of Old Friend's appeal is its expertly crafted tasting menu, priced at 45 EUR. This multi-course journey highlights the chef’s seasonal selections, blending local Sardinian ingredients with inventive techniques to delight every palate. From the delicate textures to the bold mix of flavors, each dish tells a story that reflects the rich culinary heritage of the region while pushing creative boundaries.
Desserts here are legendary, especially the tartelettes with cream, raspberries, and roasted peanuts — hailed as some of the best sweets you'll ever taste. Foodies repeatedly praise the clever flavor pairings like salted caramel with shiitake mushrooms and homemade peanut butter, offering a unique twist on classic desserts.

Exceptional Wine Pairing Experience

Complement your tasting menu with a curated selection of local bio wines for an additional 25 EUR. The wine pairing is thoughtfully designed to enhance each course, offering guests an authentic taste of Sardinia’s vineyards. Even guests who typically shy away from wine have expressed delight in the carefully chosen bottles, making it a truly accessible and enriching experience.

Ambiance and Amenities

Old Friend offers a cool, eclectic vibe that perfectly balances sophistication with a welcoming atmosphere. Diners appreciate the attentive and warm service as much as the food itself. The venue accommodates groups, boasts outdoor seating, and accepts various payment methods including NFC, credit, and debit cards. Parking is convenient with free street options nearby, making it easy for visitors to stop by.
  • Dine-in experience with warm, impeccable service.
  • Serves beer, wine, coffee, cocktails and delicious desserts.
  • Outdoor seating available for enjoying Sardinian weather.
  • Reservations recommended due to popularity.

Why Visit Old Friend Cagliari

Whether you're a curious local or a global traveler, Old Friend Cagliari offers an unforgettable dining adventure combining creative culinary artistry, excellent value, and a lively yet intimate atmosphere. From inventive seasonal dishes to outstanding desserts and perfectly paired wines, it's a spot that satisfies the most discerning palates and leaves a lasting impression.

Closed - Opens 7:30 PM

Monday

Closed

Tuesday

Closed

Wednesday

19:30–22:00

Thursday

19:30–22:00

Friday

19:30–22:00

Saturday

13:00–14:30, 19:30–22:00

Sunday

12:30–14:30, 19:30–22:30

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