Murder in the sun: itv’s ‘a taste for murder’ filmed in croatia – not capri
A deliciously dark new crime drama, ‘A Taste for Murder,’ is poised to tantalize ITV viewers this spring, but the glamorous Italian setting you’d expect is a cleverly crafted illusion.
A mediterranean mirage: the filming secrets of ‘a taste for murder’
Forget the postcard-perfect views of Capri. While the show’s opulent backdrop – sun-drenched villas and coastal tavernas – certainly looks the part, much of the production actually took place across Croatia. Producer Jo McGrath revealed the location was initially ‘abandoned and a little worn,’ but the vista and views were the key to capturing the show’s atmosphere.
The series follows DCI Joe Mottram as he investigates a murder amidst the family-run restaurant scene of the Bay of Naples, a trip intended as much for personal solace as for professional duty. But as anyone who’s experienced a sudden interruption can attest, even a much-needed break can be shattered by the unexpected.
Croatia’s coastal charm steals the show
Specifically, the team utilized locations in Opatija – dubbed the ‘Pearl of the Adriatic’ – alongside Volosko, a fishing village, and the historic town of Labin. These areas offered the visual richness and dramatic landscapes needed to mimic the Italian setting without the logistical headaches and expense of filming in Italy itself.
‘Opatija’s picturesque villas and pebble coves proved particularly effective, doubling as the Da Vinale’s family restaurant, the central hub of the drama. The location’s abandoned and slightly worn state was deliberately embraced, adding to the show’s gritty realism.
But don’t let the Croatian locations fool you; Naples, the birthplace of pizza, also featured, ensuring a touch of Italian culinary authenticity. Even the flight prices to Opatija – a mere £37 – offer a glimpse into the accessible allure of this Mediterranean escape.
Da vinale’s hidden identity
Interestingly, the very restaurant featured prominently in the show – Da Vinale’s – was filmed in Opatija. McGrath noted that the location “immediately felt like a show waiting to happen.” The building itself served as the police precinct, a clever and practical solution that streamlined the production process.
‘A Taste for Murder’ premieres on ITV tonight at 9pm and is also available on ITVX. Prepare for a murder mystery seasoned with sunshine and a healthy dose of cinematic trickery – it's a surprisingly shrewd piece of television.