Another evening at Casa Gio
- Gard Karlsen
- Oct 1
- 2 min read
Stavanger is blessed with plenty of good restaurants, and most of us have our personal favourites. One spot that Nikki and I keep returning to is Casa Gio, tucked away in Pedersgata. On our most recent visit, we arrived a little early for our dinner reservation. The staff welcomed us warmly, gave us time to explore the wine list, and set the tone for a relaxed evening.
The menu at Casa Gio is refreshingly simple and changes daily. There’s no printed card – the waiter recites the options at the table, usually two to three starters and three to four mains. Nikki began with an octopus salad, while I opted for a more traditional plate of salami and cheese. The octopus was tender and flavorful, paired with a few sautéed vegetables, while my selection came with warm, freshly baked bread and a drizzle of olive oil. Straightforward, but executed beautifully.
Over the years, Casa Gio’s wine list has grown into a solid Italian wine list. We chose a 2006 Radici Taurasi Riserva from Mastroberardino, a wine made from the Aglianico grape. Reminiscent of Nebbiolo but fuller in body, it had developed elegant, aged aromas, balanced acidity, and depth after nearly two decades. It was an excellent companion to the food.
For mains, Nikki went classic with homemade tagliatelle served with a rich ragu of rabbit, pork, and beef. I chose pork neck ravioli. Both dishes were presented without fuss – just honest plates of good pasta made with quality ingredients. Both dishes were lovely and the soul comforting food that you need together with a glass of wine on a dark, autumn evening. To finish, I indulged in a slice of tiramisu, which was every bit as satisfying as hoped.
Casa Gio remains a true gem in Stavanger. The cooking is rooted in simplicity, letting the ingredients shine – exactly what we’ve come to appreciate when dining in Italy. It’s the kind of place where you go not for frills, but for food prepared with care and authenticity.
Pros:
Excellent Italian cooking
A curated Italian wine list
Cons:
Noise levels can be high if seated near a large group
The menu may feel limited to those who prefer more choice
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