It is not so easy to travel to Matera, but it's worth it for Sassi (the historical center) and this restaurant (my third reason was Giro d'Italia, May 2013). The location is first of all perfect. It's not difficult to find because it's not deeply inside Sassi, but rather on an easily reached road, but still with a view to the Sassi. The menu includes some typical local (Puglia) dishes like orecchiette pasta (in "primi piatti"), risotto etc., but also seitan etc. for "secondi piatti" cooked in special ways. But, there is a lot of improvisation too. On my first night there I ordered from the menu, but on the second night there it was up to the cook/owner to decide. And he is a really nice person too. It's very clear he loves his restaurant and cooking! Also, the price was moderate. There are not so many vegan/vegetarian restaurants in Italy, so it's surprising to find one of the best in a small town like Matera!