On Via Roma, in the heart of Tursi, Caffè Plaza switches on its lights while the town is still asleep: at half past four in the morning the first coffee is already waiting for those who set off early, to the fields or to work. Behind the counter are Antonello and Silvia, who have made it a meeting place for every hour of the day.

Mornings smell of cornetti and homemade sweets: orange cake, sbriciolata with custard, apple cake, biscuits. Around midday the deli counter fills up with rustici, tramezzini, filled focaccia, piadine, arancine and panzerotti, to enjoy at the table or to take away.

Since 2021 the place has had a brand-new kitchen, and from it come the dishes that made the Plaza's name. The star is the sandwich with grilled octopus, roast potatoes, rocket and stracciatella. Alongside it are the veal burgers, each named after a person – Rocc’, Mary, Ntoné, Cla & Fede, Adamo –, tuna and salmon tartare and plated octopus.

Evening is aperitivo time: half-metre boards, the “stendino” to share with friends, and carefully made cocktails, from whisky sour to Mai Tai, from Clover Club to spritz. Those who would rather stay home can take their aperitivo with them.

The Plaza is also the place for parties: buffets and catering made to measure for birthdays, graduations and anniversaries, the indoor room dressed up for the occasion, evenings with live music and DJ sets. And since 2017, every October 31, the Halloween party.