From the restoration of a 14th-century building to Berton's gastronomic project: Vista Ostuni and its idea of hospitality that knows no seasons, for a new story of Puglia even in winter.
There is a Puglia that does not live only in summer, that does not end with the last free beach and does not disappear when the wind becomes sharper. Right here, in that small strip of land between Valle D'Itria and Salento, there are those who are learning to stay and to promote themselves continuously. And it is within this new horizon that Vista Ostunii fits in - the new five-star luxury hotel of the Vista group (which already includes Vista Lago di Como and Vista Verona) and part of The Leading Hotels of the World - destined to mark a significant shift in the way hospitality and catering are interpreted in southern Italy.
After more than two years of work, the hotel was inaugurated last July inside the former Manifattura Tabacchi (a 14th-century building that had been inactive for more than fifty years). An impressive redevelopment, commissioned by the Passera family and developed in full respect of the original structure, in a strategic location: at the foot of the city of Ostuni, surrounded by the Piana degli Ulivi monumentali (Plain of Monumental Olive Trees) and twenty minutes from Brindisi airport. Ostuni is known to all as the White City, with its steep streets and breathtaking views. But it is also a town that, perhaps more than any other, suffers from the backlash of mass tourism. In summer, it is packed to the brim. But what happens in winter? This is where Vista Ostuni wants to make a necessary and ethical change, because deseasonalizing an area and its facilities is the first step towards promoting authentic tourism.
A building that is not just a repository of history
This structure has a complex and layered past. In 1300, it housed religious settlements, and in the 19th century, it became a hospital and shelter for the poor. In the early decades of the 20th century, a local entrepreneur transformed the structure into a tobacco factory, but production ceased in 1968, overwhelmed by industrial competition. Then silence until today, with a reopening that also symbolizes the desire to give voice to a history that has had a profound impact on the community. “This opening is a very important milestone in what has been an exciting journey for us,” said Bianca Passera, President of the Group. “From the moment we discovered this historic building, we recognized its incredible potential. Restoring it was a true act of love that allowed us to honor its legacy.”
The structure and the precious sense of hospitality
The project is led by the Milanese firm RMA – Roberto Murgia Architetto, which has been working alongside the Vista brand since its inception. Five floors covering 6,000 m² of interior space, 1,200 m² of terraces, and three hectares of gardens. The rooms retain vaulted ceilings up to seven meters high (lending themselves to splendid mezzanine areas), local stone arches, and large openings that frame the landscape and light. Local craftsmen worked with materials such as stone, terracotta, wood, and iron to preserve the original soul of the building.
The result is a measured balance, in which the technology that accompanies a five-star luxury hotel remains an almost unnoticeable presence, such is the opulence of the details. There are 28 rooms—19 of which are suites—whose large windows offer a true vantage point over the maze of white houses that make Ostuni its most famous postcard image. The landscape design bears the signature of Erik Dhont, who was determined to give continuity to the territory in a sort of space stretching towards infinity.
Climbing up to the top floor, you will find a roof garden with lots of Mediterranean plants, the Infinity Bar, and a heated panoramic pool. It is the rooftop with its panoramic view of the sky, sea, olive trees, and white stone. However, there are two other swimming pools: a large one with its unmistakable checkered mosaic, surrounded by the garden and also heated, and one set in the beautiful and intimate spa where you can enjoy Biologique Recherche treatments. Every comfort is an invitation to discover and experience Puglia all year round, even in the cold season.
In the kitchen, Andrea Berton's signature style is unmistakable.
Vista Ostuni is not only a great hotel but also a place to enjoy delicious food, with three different dining options: Berton al Vista, Chiostro Bar, and Bianca Bistrot. In the morning, Berton al Vista serves a hearty breakfast with sweet and savory options. The kitchen serves up dishes inspired by international breakfasts, while the dining room is filled with local products: warm ricotta, burratina cheese, focaccia from Bari, and excellent baked goods, including traditional pasticciotti and cakes.
And in the evening? The name already gives it away, introducing the unmistakable signature of Michelin-starred chef Andrea Berton, who did not want to limit himself to reproducing traditional cuisine, but integrated it into his own style. The Berton al Vista restaurant, open only for dinner, is where his iconic dishes meet the raw ingredients of the local area. There are two tasting menus: Tra Olivi e il Mare (7 courses for a mix of bolder flavors) and Vista Territorio (5 courses of revisited classic dishes). The dishes clearly reveal the chef's DNA, which is magnificently expressed in his iconic broths, here made from sheep or artichoke leaves and mint. The kitchen, entrusted to Executive Chef Giuseppe Aresta (assisted by Sous Chef Antonio Pio Del Franco), speaks the language of the territory with a touch of modernity.
The dishes
The amuse-bouches begin with a small savory “cartellata” (anchovies and lemon) that anticipates the essence of Cerignola olives, covered with cocoa butter and ready to melt in your mouth. The appetizers describe the sea and the land: the fleshiness of the grilled oyster, with its crispy amaranth cloud, contrasts with the acidity of the Polignano a Mare carrot, which makes its way between a sweet and sour brunoise and a parsley sauce.
Sea urchins, salicornia, and squid are enveloped in the rich graininess of black chickpeas, between thimbles and squid ink. The cod then becomes a labyrinth of flavors: the leaves rise up the walls of the path, surrounded by turnip greens and clementine sauces. The meat course makes its presence felt with the sense of smell: at the table, the essence of burnt rosemary smokes the lamb liver. Then plum chutney and chicory cream press the accelerator on the (already intense) flavor of the lamb. The pre-dessert pays homage to Puglia with a reinterpretation of caffè leccese, in the form of a soft mousse. But the dessert is all Andrea Berton's: this is how the iconic chocolate egg takes shape on crumbs of biscuit dough, enclosing creamy yogurt and a soft mango center.
The gastronomic narrative is direct, consistent, and never self-referential. In summer, the dining room enjoys a direct view of the blue Adriatic Sea, while in winter it is enclosed by large windows, creating an almost suspended space. Next door is the Chiostro Bar, with its beautiful fireplace and spectacular bottle rack, designed as a place for conversation and, why not, contemplation. Here, Bar Manager Valentino Gallitelli enjoys preparing classic drinks with a local twist: there is spritz made with Verdeca or Gin and Tonic infused with friggitello peppers, Negroni with Primitivo or Gin with fresh basil leaves. It is also the ideal place for an aperitif with finger food from the kitchen that never compromises on quality, from bao buns with yellowtail tartare to fried scagliozza with caramelized onions. Finally, the Bianca Bistrot with its all-day menu, fresh and accessible with its wide vegetarian selection.
A new way of describing Puglia
Vista Ostuni talks about a Puglia that does not want to be codified as a seasonal destination but wants to become a model of well-being at all times. Proof of this can be found in the series of events designed to fully experience the spirit of Christmas, starting with the Afternoon Tea at the Chiostro Bar (available throughout December and until Epiphany). “To date, Ostuni is undoubtedly our most ambitious and significant project,” says Luigi Passera, CEO of the Group. And indeed, Vista Ostuni represents a turning point: combining historical value, tailor-made service, haute cuisine, and a responsible approach without resorting to the facile aesthetics of summer destinations. It is a Puglia that does not wait for June to show itself but prefers that the more mature forms of luxury hospitality consolidate with the arrival of winter. And with its measure and depth, it fits perfectly into this new tourist geography that knows no seasons.
CONTACTS
Via Giosuè Pinto, 0/A – Ostuni (Brindisi);
Phone: 0831 1815678;
