The story
On Piazza Sulis in the heart of Alghero, Il Pavone has been a fixture since 1979. The restaurant is a family affair, where the menu reads like a roll call of loved ones: Salvatore’s octopus, Pinuccia’s mackerel, Jonathan’s linguine. This personal touch runs through every course, making each dish feel less like a recipe and more like a story.
The cooking is firmly rooted in Sardinian tradition, with a strong focus on seafood. Starters such as Giovannibattista’s carpaccio of fresh tuna – dressed simply with lemon juice and extra virgin olive oil – or Yvonne’s crispy prawns set the tone. Pasta is a highlight, especially Meuccio’s pasta and white beans with mussels, a famous soup that has been on the menu since day one. For a main, the options range from Alexander’s calamari fritti with a seasonal salad to Fortunato’s steamed fish of the day, finished with potato cubes, grated bottarga, and oil from Alghero.
Desserts lean into local ingredients: Bobò pairs sheep milk ricotta with toasted almonds and eucalyptus honey, while the Bocabona is a house semifreddo with crushed amaretti and pistachios.
The atmosphere is relaxed and welcoming, with outdoor seating available in good weather. Its consistency and quality have been recognised by the Michelin guide, which has listed Il Pavone as Recommended. For anyone seeking classic cuisine and seafood in Alghero, this is a place that delivers on its long-standing promise.
Recognition
Ambience
Location