El Pecador

LIDO, ITALY –

A beloved local bar and hangout, El Pecador is actually a large mural-painted bus – fully outfitted with a kitchen and bar – that simply parks near the beach every summer and welcomes an alternative Italian crowd.

The bar’s spicy name, which means The Sinner, echoes its ongoing dispute with Lido’s city hall and strict laws that have so far denied the bar the proper permits that would ensure its right to host the party-seekers it attracts.

Despite its civic issues, however, El Pecador has happily fed throngs of summertime visitors for years, rain or shine.

Cute little benches, tree-stump chairs, scattered potted plants, and flags strung from tree to tree help define the perimeter of the bar’s makeshift “patio,” while LCD monitors offer flashy visual support to the trippy techno music typically blaring from the sound system.

In addition to its happy sidewalk party vibe, El Pecador also offers an astounding variety of huge, fresh, and creative panini at low prices, like its famous te spiego sandwich with eggs, bacon, and arugula.

Whether stopping by for a quick bite during the day or for a pre-club aperitif at night, patrons are sure to enjoy El Pecador’s warm family-style service and kooky vibe.