On Sunday, we were searching for a decent place to eat in Pompeii - Il Principe looked interesting but appears to be closed. Wandering around we found La Bettola - and what a treat.

We'd hoped for food which was both inventive and inspirational, but had not real expectation of finding it. So it was a remarkably pleasant surprise to find an establishment whose chef is clearly determined to take the glories of traditional Italian cooking one step further.

Particularly good was the seared tuna in sesame, which was served with a lightly fried macedon of vegetables, presented as a sort of caponnata, in which the sweet-sour was imparted by a balsamic reduction.

When we returned on Monday, we were rather disappointed to find it closed for the evening. We'd hoped to try the meat dishes. Next time!

This seemed like a modest local restaurant - we chose it because it was so close to our hotel, but the food and service were both tremendous - it's a definite reason to stay in Pompeii rather than just visit. There were a lot of local specialities, a terrific local winelist, a lot for vegetarians and real charm and style in the way everything is served. We spent 60 euros on a three-course meal for two with wine and water, and booked again for the next evening.

In five days in Italy this was undoubtedly the best meal we had. The quality and choice was superb and seasonal and the choice of wines extensive, with good recommendations from the waiter as to which would match our food choices best.

Despite this being a five star quality restaurant the prices were only average.

A great meal in a stylish restaurant with super staff. Probably best to make a reservation as it is deservedly very popular.

The owner actually came and picked us up from our hotel! The food and atmosphere was wonderful! I definitely recommend a visit!

spent 60 euro for 2 persons, ordered 2 glass of wine, a bottle of water, 2 starters, 2 main, 2 sides. the portion was generous, if we knew the side of the starters, we wouldn't be bother of the main. the starters tasted better than the main anyway. the seafood was not as fresh as we expected. the linguine was under-cooked but we suspected that's the Italian way as it also happened in another supposed-to-be-good restaurant in Pompeii. octopus salad was delicious, grilled seafood was not too impressed, the king prawn and sole were both began to decomposed. house red wine was good. service was good. still, i think the food was over-priced for what it was. i would go for a good old pizza elsewhere.