Business Details
50+ Years
experience
Authentic Italian Cuisine in Swanage
Established in 1970 by Gerry Forte, our restaurant was founded on a passion for sharing authentic Italian cuisine with Swanage. Over five decades, we have evolved from a formal dining destination to a welcoming space catering to both special occasions and casual family meals. Our commitment to using fresh, locally sourced ingredients remains unwavering, with all dishes prepared on-site following traditional methods passed down through the Forte family. The legacy of Gerry Forte lives on through his son and wife Anna, who continue to uphold the values of quality, hospitality, and culinary excellence.Our loyal team, many of whom have been with us for years, plays a vital role in creating the warm, inviting atmosphere that defines our establishment. From our homemade pasta and pizzas to our continental-style caf area, every aspect of La Trattoria reflects our dedication to providing an exceptional dining experience rooted in Italian tradition.
Services
Traditional Pizzas
Authentic Pasta
Local Seafood Dishes
Dine-In Menus
Take-Out Service
Gift Vouchers
Details
- Year established: 1970
Highlights and features
- We uphold a 50-year family tradition of authentic Italian cooking
- Our dishes use fresh, locally sourced ingredients prepared on-site
- Our loyal team ensures a warm, personalised dining experience
- We offer both formal dining and casual caf-style seating options
- Our menu features traditional recipes passed down through generations
What people say
Authentic Italian taste
Warm welcoming atmosphere
Fresh seafood dishes
Family-friendly service
Traditional recipes
Services
Traditional Pizzas
Handmade pizzas with 11-inch bases using a Forte family recipe. Toppings include classic combinations like Margherita, spicy Italian sausage, and fresh seafood. Our tomato sauce is made from Italian tomatoes and fresh herbs, served in a warm, family-run setting.
Authentic Pasta
Freshly prepared pasta dishes including Spaghetti al Pomodoro, Penne all'Arrabbiata, and oven-baked lasagne. Ingredients are sourced locally where possible, with vegetarian and seafood options available. All pasta is cooked on-site following traditional Italian methods.
Local Seafood
Dishes featuring locally sourced seafood such as crab spaghetti and mixed seafood pasta. Prepared using traditional Italian techniques with fresh herbs and olive oil. Available in both formal dining and casual caf settings.
Dine-In Menus
Comprehensive menus offering pasta, pizza, antipasti, salads, and desserts. Includes vegetarian options and traditional Italian desserts like Tiramisu and chocolate fudge cake. Menus available for both formal dining and casual caf-style meals.
Gift Vouchers
Purchase gift vouchers for authentic Italian dining experiences. Ideal for special occasions or as a treat for loved ones. Vouchers can be redeemed against any menu items including pizzas, pasta, and desserts.
People
Gerry Forte
Founder
Founded La Trattoria in 1970 after growing up in an Italian village where he learned traditional cooking from his family. Introduced British diners to Italian ingredients like ricotta and espresso, establishing a legacy of authentic cuisine.
Anna Forte
Co-Owner
Continues Gerry Forte's legacy alongside her husband, maintaining traditional cooking methods and family recipes. Ensures the restaurant preserves its authentic Italian atmosphere while adapting to modern dining trends.
Questions
What Italian dishes do you serve?
We serve traditional Italian pizzas, pasta dishes, seafood, antipasti, salads, and desserts like Tiramisu. All dishes use fresh ingredients prepared on-site.
Do you have vegetarian options?
Yes, we offer vegetarian pizzas, pasta dishes like Penne all'Arrabbiata, and oven-baked cannelloni with ricotta and spinach.
Can I book a table?
Reservations can be made through our Open Table link on the website for both formal dining and casual café seating.
Do you offer take-out service?
Yes, we provide take-out options for our pizzas, pasta dishes, and side orders. Please check our current menu for details.
Are gift vouchers available?
Yes, we offer gift vouchers redeemable against any menu items, perfect for special occasions or treating loved ones to Italian cuisine.
What makes your restaurant unique?
We combine a 50-year family tradition of Italian cooking with locally sourced ingredients, maintaining authentic recipes while offering both formal and casual dining experiences.
Reviews (4)
Andi H.
Dec 14, 2021
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Nice food. Lovely ambiance but quite old style food and flavours. That said it was a welcome haven when most of the town had bedded down. Resomably priced bill. Generous portions
Lee Reuter
Nov 28, 2021
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Just had the most amazing lasagne. Truly worth a visit. Outstanding service and quality of food. Will definitely be back.
John Hensby
Oct 20, 2021
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What could you say to do this justice? We came with our granddaughter and her boyfriend, who has to eat gluten free food & the staff couldn't have been more helpful. Good selection of food, which we all enjoyed- really tasty! Service was attentive but relaxed & bookings were spaced out so nothing was rushed. As good as it gets!
Villan Chris
Oct 19, 2021
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We visited here on a Saturday night and had pre booked which I would recommend as it's not very big inside and they were having to turn people away. It's a family run business and is simple in its layout. The staff were attentive during out visit with the food been hot and tasty. There is plenty of choice on the menu all at an average price. So if your visiting Swanage it's well worth a visit.
