The "Bar L'Incontro" (the meeting; encounter) is a real italian Bar (or maybe it would be better to…read moreuse the term Coffe Shop) in the heart of Eichstätt.
It is located in the Luitpoldstr. of Eichstätt, in a little square which could be described as "Little Italy Corner", as there are also the "Pizzeria Piccola" and the Restaurant "Die 4 Jahreszeiten".
ATMOSPHERE
The "Incontro" had two large window sides, which let a lot of light into the Coffe Shop. The Decorations are kept light and nice and the whole Coffe Shop has a modern and inviting feel to it.
Behind the long counter there is the heart-piece of every italian Bar, the Coffemachine, Made in Italy. There is also a glass panelled section where snacks are presented. In a corner of the long counter there is a selection of daily newspapers (German).
On the wall behind the counter there are different bottles on display and for use.
During the Summer season there are also tables out in the open, on the square, under a large parasol. These tables are next to those of the "Pizzeria Piccola". During the Winter months the square becomes a small parking lot.
PARKING
During the day parking right next to it can be difficult, during the evening there are few problems. Luckily, in Eichstätt, most things are within a short walking distance.
To the multi-story car park "Pedetti Tiefgarage" it's only about 100 yards.
FOOD & DRINK
As an italian bar, the heartpiece is of course the Espresso and other coffee specialities. Personally I find that the "Incontro" has one of the best Espressi in all of Eichstätt. One can almost feel like being in Italy.
Next to the Espresso there are of course also other coffee specialities like Cappuccino and Latte Macchiato.
If you're in the mood for a quick italian-style breakfast, then this is the place to get your Cappuccino and Cornetto (Croissant) and enjoy it.
Different options are available for a quick snack: Panini, Focacce, Piadine, Pizza by the slice, Tramezzini and Toasts. These are kept in the glass panelled counter and grilled/toasted before serving, just like in Italy. Christian (the owner & barista) bakes his own bread daily, and this can be tasted in the excellent quality and freshness.
At lunch time, on work-days, there is always a changing selection of 2 Pasta dishes. These are very delicious and have a good price.
Great cakes and an awesome home-made Tiramisù are also available.
Next to the classic coffee selections, of course other beverages and drinks are also available. Stopping by for a pint after a long and hard day is also possible at L'Incontro.
SERVICE
Since coming to Eichstätt I have stopped by the "Incontro" almost daily. Sometimes just for a quick Espresso and a chit-chat with the barista.
The ownership of the Bar has changed since my first visit, but the service has always been outstanding, friendly, fast and I have always felt welcomed.
Christian comes from northern Italy and he is always very cheerful and friendly, making his guests feel like at home. I always liked stopping by just for a bit of conversation, a quick lunch, or just to have my Spezi in the summer afternoon and watch what was going on around.
PRICE/QUALITY
The ratio quality-price is outstanding. True compared to the price of an Espresso in Italy the EUR 1,70 at the Incontro may seem a bit high, but it is within the average of prices for Espresso in Eichstätt, and you get one of the towns best, almost as if you actually are in Italy.
Panini cost around EUR 2,00 - 2,50 and the Pasta dish around EUR 4,00.
You get excellent service, great quality, in an inviting and clean environment, at a reasonable price.
CONCLUSION
The "Bar L'Incontro" is always a good place for stopping by. It has become something a kin to a living room for me, and therefore I can only recommend it.
Wether you just want a quick Espresso at the counter, a Latte Macchiato to-go, a great and quick lunch, a good snack, or something to drink, the L'Incontro is the right place.
Suggestion: Take a seat outside on a summer afternoon, order a cool beer and relax, watching the hustle and bustle of this nice corner of Italy in the heart of Eichstätt
