Supercars, Super Foods of Modena

Connoisseurs of fine cars and exceptional cuisine will find a visit to the medieval town of Modena, in northern Italy, particularly rewarding. Together with nearby Parma, Modena is home to some of Italy’s most celebrated exports: Parmigiano Reggiano, traditional balsamic vinegar, Parma ham, and the industrial heritage of brands such as Ferrari and Maserati. Allowing enough time to explore this region offers a deeper understanding of both its culinary traditions and its cultural identity.

Hombre Farm and the Panini Motor Valley Collection

Hombre Farm, located just outside Modena, is run by Matteo Panini, a young Parmigiano Reggiano producer who also happens to steward one of the most remarkable private motor collections in Italy. The Panini family legacy extends far beyond agriculture: Matteo’s father, Umberto Panini, together with his brothers, founded the famous Panini sticker empire, while preserving a passion for engineering and motorsport. Driving sport cars in Italy.

The collection began with agricultural machinery — including a fully operational 1934 Landini tractor — before expanding to motorcycles and, eventually, a world-class selection of cars. Highlights include historically significant Maseratis alongside vehicles from other traditions, such as British Norton motorcycles and rare examples from Lotus and Messerschmitt. Seen in context, the collection reflects the craftsmanship and innovation that define Italy’s Motor Valley.

A visit to Hombre Farm is especially well suited to families. Guests typically begin at the dairy, where Parmigiano Reggiano is produced daily using traditional methods, before continuing to the adjacent motor museum. This pairing of food production and mechanical heritage offers a uniquely Modenese experience.

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Osteria Francescana

No culinary exploration of Modena would be complete without mentioning Osteria Francescana, the restaurant created by chef Massimo Bottura. Born and raised in Modena, Bottura developed his culinary vision by blending local traditions with contemporary creativity. Over the years, his work has earned international acclaim, including three Michelin stars and recognition among the world’s most influential chefs.

Dining at Osteria Francescana requires advance planning and represents a significant investment, but for many visitors it becomes a defining moment of their trip. Those seeking a broader introduction to local flavours often prefer experiences that combine tastings and producers, such as a guided food tour in Modena, which places the city’s gastronomy within its wider cultural context.

Traditional Balsamic Vinegar of Modena

Traditional balsamic vinegar of Modena is one of Italy’s most distinctive artisanal products. Made exclusively from cooked grape must — primarily Trebbiano, sometimes blended with Lambrusco — it is aged for a minimum of 12 years in a series of progressively smaller wooden barrels. Some vinegars mature for 25 years or more, developing extraordinary depth and complexity.

Historically known as “black gold,” traditional balsamic vinegar has long been associated with family heritage and celebration. Visiting a local producer allows travellers to understand the slow production process, learn how to use the vinegar correctly, and taste its remarkable flavours. Many visitors combine this with other tastings through curated experiences such as balsamic tours in Emilia-Romagna.