We often take for granted the importance of a concept like hospitality; however, throughout history, it has allowed countless people to experience new places, far from their homes or countries, fostering exchanges and interaction between different cultures. Hospitality on an island like Capri has always been a given, and it still is in many of the local accommodations and restaurants, with the goal of making visitors feel at home. One such place is the restaurant Da Gregorio and Luigi, which has been family-run since 2000, and where Luigi, Gregorio, and his wife work together. The restaurant has made the decision to remain open year-round, catering not only to tourists but also to the island’s residents.
The Secret: Never Stop Growing and Innovating
“To always stay in tune with the desires of our customers,” Luigi tells us, “we consistently update the structure by proposing restyling and improvements. Our most recent upgrades allowed us to create a more welcoming terrace, now enclosed, which can be enjoyed even in the winter. Additionally, we’ve modernized the aperitif area with stools and tables, where we host a series of weekly events, including aperitifs with DJ sets starting in May.”
Hospitality is Everything on Capri
It is precisely on the concept of hospitality that Da Gregorio and Luigi’s restaurant bases its philosophy of dining. “It’s essential for us, as it is part of Capri’s DNA. For centuries, the island has welcomed many people in search of shelter, whether for a short time or for a lifetime. This culture of hospitality is reflected in many anecdotes my father told me when I was a child. One of them features a king and a local islander. The story goes that the king disembarked at the dock where the boats arrive and stepped on a sea urchin. An elderly man, who owned a kiosk and witnessed the scene, rushed to help him. The king told him to ask for any reward for his assistance. The man requested the license to open a business right in front of the Faraglioni rocks. I believe this legend explains how tourism and welcoming the ‘foreigner’ have always been fundamental activities for the island.”
Always Accepting the Challenge of Satisfying the Customer
Working on Capri today undoubtedly presents particular challenges compared to working elsewhere. “On one hand, we restaurateurs on Capri are fortunate to have a broader audience and work with different target groups, which makes this profession even more stimulating. On the other hand, we are aware that this requires us to meet a variety of needs and to pay extra attention to an audience accustomed to being served and pampered. At Da Gregorio and Luigi, we take on this challenge every day, all year long, always giving our best with a culinary offering that makes our guests feel right at home.”
