When you think “Italy,” of course you think “delicious food”. While this is an accurate thought, there’s Italian culinary experiences that’s not just delicious, but distinguish themselves from the rest. From semi-hidden locations to the best restaurant, the following are for lovers of luxury and fine cuisine. If this is something you’re after, join us as we look at some of the best fine dining in Italy!
Piazza Duomo
Located in the city of Alba, Piazza Duomo definitely sets itself apart from other restaurants as far as fine dining experiences go. Among its accolades are 3 Michelin stars and a 27th place ranking among The World’s 50 Best Restaurants of 2015. The restaurant opened in 2005 and chef Enrico Crippa is the guiding force behind its success. Crippa goes beyond the limits of regional cuisine while respecting regional traditions. He also maintains using top level ingredients from the Langhe region, including fresh produce from the restaurant’s very own private garden.
His dishes are exquisitely seasonal and rooted in simplicity, freshness, availability and quality. According to Crippa, “When an ingredient is no longer available, the dish must be reconsidered. The same vegetable that was the feature may not go so well the following week because it is bigger, or longer, or more bitter, or more leathery. In its place there will be another, or its role in the dish will have to change”. Thus, there is no plate equal to another. Take, for example, our salad 21, 31, 41, 51…, not only is it different in summer and winter, but also from the lunch service to the evening.”
What makes this restaurant particularly special is the use of the produce from their private garden. This is because it limits the amount of clientele they can serve per day. Says Crippa, “In choosing to work with the vegetable garden, we have chosen to not be able to host more than a few dozen diners every day, or really take our cuisine elsewhere.” Exclusivity and quality are what distinguish this fine dining experience. If you want to experience something special, book your table in advance to be guaranteed a seat.
Address: Piazza Risorgimento, 4, Alba (CN) | Phone: +39 0173 366167 | Price: $$$$ | Hours: Monday – Sunday 12.30pm – 2.00pm & 7.30pm – 10.00pm | Website: www.piazzaduomoalba.it
Dal Pescatore
In the heart of the natural reserve, Parco dell’Oglio Sud, there is a jewel of a restaurant that has been making top qualityfood since 1925. The restaurant is ran by the Santini family, who has passed down the legacy through 3 different generations. It has not only been awarded 3 Michelin Stars, but is also part of Relais & Chateaux and Les Grandes Tables du Monde.
The à la carte menu’s composed of 6-7 hot and cold appetizers, pastas, soups and risottos for the main course. There is also 2-3 fish dishes according to market availability and various meat dishes. These are prepared with ingredients present depending on the different seasons. They also offer exclusively Italian cheese platters of the highest selection. Some dishes such as pumpkin tortelli, agnolini in broth, and pistà gras are present year round on the menu, while the rest of the menu changes weekly.
The spirit of innovation is what has allowed this family to create a restaurant that stands out from the crowd. They are always tweaking and customizing their food to suit the tastes of our time and of its clients.
Address: Località Runate, 15, Canneto Sull’oglio (MN) | Phone: +39 0376 723001 | Price: $$$$$ | Hours: Monday – Sunday 12.30pm – 2.00pm & 7.30pm – 10.00pm | Website: www.dalpescatore.com
The GLAM Restaurant and Bar
Located inside the hotel, Palazzo Venart (one of the most breathtaking locations in all of Venice), you will find The GLAM, nestled in a magnolia tree-lined courtyard. The restaurant, headed by chef Enrico Bartolini can seat a maximum of 40 guests. The location along with the size, give an air of exclusivity from the minute you walk through the door.
A decorated Michelinstar veteran, chef Bartolini, prepares Venetian cuisine with a modern day twist: incorporating influences from all over the culinary world. All dishes are prepared strictly with the freshest local Venetian ingredients. Not only is the food impressive, but the GLAM also has an extensive wine list that perfectly complements every meal. For a real treat, try the tasting menu which includes 8 different chef prepared tastings.
Address: S. Croce, 1961, Venice (VE) | Phone: +39 041 5233784 | Price: $$$$ | Hours: Monday – Sunday 12.30pm – 2.30pm & 7.30pm – 10.30pm | Website: www.palazzovenart.com
Osteria Francescana
Ranked #1 on the World’s 50 Best Restaurants list in 2016 (the first restaurant in Italy to receive this honor) and awarded 3Michelin stars, to say that Osteria Francescana is a rare gem would be an understatement. The mastermind behind this culinary pleasure cruise is Massimo Bottura. After finishing with law school, chef Bottura decided to take a stab at the culinary world. He opened Osteria Francescana in 1995, which is located on a quiet little street in the historical center of Modena. Chef Bottura was a student of Alain Ducasse and has worked with greats such as Ferran Adria.
Bottura’s dishes can be described as a union between science and art with a few pinches of music, literature, and pop culture thrown in. Exclusive is the word of the day when it comes to this restaurant: there are only 12 tables and the restaurant is open for only one hour at lunch and an hour and a half at dinner. Given its classification, number of tables available, and its hours of operation, you’ll have to make a reservation in advance.
Address: Via Stella, 22, Modena (MO) | Phone: +39 059 223912 | Price: $$$$ | Hours: Tuesday – Saturday 12.30pm – 1.30pm & 8.00pm – 9.30pm, Closed Sunday & Monday | Website: www.osteriafrancescana.it
Solo Per Due
The name of the restaurant, “Solo Per Due” or “Only For Two” says it all: there is only one table for two in the entirerestaurant making it the smallest (and likely most romantic and expensive) restaurant in the world.
.When it comes to this place, they need to invent a word that goes above exclusive. Every detail from location to service is tailored to make the customer feel pampered and special. Set in a beautiful and historical location, the ruins of an ancient Roman villa can be seen outside the restaurant. It is also said that the location was formerly the country home of Latin poet, Horace and it is the sight of the Spring of Bandusia. Horace even based one of his most famous poems on said spring, the site that can still be visited today.
The service is top- notch and to ensure the needs of every customer are attended to, they are given a silver bell to ring for the waiter who only comes when called. The menu’s created based on fresh ingredients, selected everyday depending on the season in which they’re available. This makes the menu very unique as it changes from day to day
Billed as a lovers restaurant, it is open for both lunch and dinner. Once your reservation’s confirmed, the menu, dessert, the wine, the background music, flowers, and the arrival time’s then established. The cost of the meal is 250 euro per person excluding champagne and particularly fine wines, and credit cards are not accepted.
Address: Via Villa di Orazio, 2, Vacone (RI) | Phone: +39 0746 676873 | Price: $$$$$ | Hours: 7 days a week, Hours TBD | Website: www.soloperdue.it
If you’re looking for quality food and a unique dining experience, then any of the restaurants are perfect for you. If you’re planning a trip to Italy and money is no object, start making your reservations at these places now. Don’t miss out on some of the best gourmet foodie experiences Italy has to offer and have a happy eating!
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