Il Rifugio del Nottolo

Rifugio del Nottolo is a restaurant located in the historic centre of Rio nell’Elba, housed in an old building that creates a warm, intimate, and distinctive atmosphere. The restaurant has been managed by Franca since 2014, when she took over the premises, keeping the historic name “Nottolo” and adding the word “Rifugio” (“Refuge”), inspired both by the building itself and by its cosy, welcoming character.

The restaurant’s name is rooted in the history of the premises. During the 1980s, the same space was home to a wine bar and nightlife venue run by a man nicknamed “Nottolo”, partly because of his small stature. Over time, the nickname became closely associated with the location and remained part of its identity. When Franca began her management, she chose to preserve this historical reference while adding the idea of a “refuge”, reflecting the restaurant’s cave-like architecture and its warm, sheltered atmosphere.

The restaurant is located along a route frequently used by hikers, cyclists, and visitors exploring the village. For this reason, alongside its à la carte menu, it also offers affordable set menus designed for those looking for a simple and satisfying meal during their journey.

The cuisine is based on local tradition, featuring both seafood and meat dishes inspired by the gastronomy of Elba and Tuscany. The restaurant is generally open from the week before Easter until November, when the village welcomes the highest number of visitors. During the season, guests can enjoy both lunch and dinner.

In addition to its indoor dining rooms, Rifugio del Nottolo also features a small outdoor seating area, particularly popular during the summer months, where guests can dine al fresco.

Combining the history of the building, its intimate atmosphere, and a cuisine deeply rooted in local traditions, Rifugio del Nottolo has become one of Rio nell’Elba’s distinctive dining venues, continuing to preserve the village’s culinary heritage while welcoming visitors throughout the season.