Tag: massimo bottura

Discovering the Charm of Casa Maria Luigia in Modena, Italy

In the picturesque outskirts of Modena, just a short 20-minute drive from the city center and a mere 10-minute journey from the Modena Sud exit on the A1 highway, lies the enchanting country house, Casa Maria Luigia. This historic 18th-century residence, once left abandoned, was brought back to life by renowned chef Massimo Bottura and his wife, Lara Gilmore.

The Transformation Journey of Bottura & Gilmore

Having purchased this grand property at a court auction for 700,000 euros after five failed attempts, the couple had a vision. They wanted to offer guests the experience of the tranquil Italian countryside paired with world-class dining. They invested an additional million euros to restore and transform the once-decrepit villa into an exclusive guesthouse, which quickly became the go-to spot for corporate gatherings and group dinners.

Every corner of this villa reflects Bottura and Gilmore’s passions. From art installations by acclaimed artists like Andy Warhol and Doug Aitken to its Gucci wallpaper and decorative mirrors, Casa Maria Luigia exudes luxury and taste. The 12-room residence is spread over three floors, complete with a standalone bungalow, a tennis court, and a swimming pool. For music lovers, the listening room, boasting a vintage LP collection and Alessandro Mendini’s iconic Proust armchair, is a treat.

Gastronomic Delights: Francescana at Maria Luigia

Nestled within Casa Maria Luigia is its gem, the Francescana restaurant. Headed by the talented Canadian chef, Jessica Rosval, a veteran of Bottura’s Osteria Francescana team, this eatery offers an array of Bottura’s signature dishes. From a tasting menu with highlights like “Una compressione di pasta e fagioli” and “Tortellini come gesto sociale” priced at 330 €, to its wine pairing option for an additional 150 €, the culinary experience here is unparalleled.

The difference between this establishment and Osteria Francescana downtown? While the latter only serves newly created dishes that rotate biannually, Francescana at Maria Luigia celebrates Bottura’s iconic creations from over the years.

A Morning at Bottura’s

Mornings at Casa Maria Luigia are a delight. Guests are greeted with a hearty breakfast reminiscent of traditional Modenese farmer snacks. Picture freshly baked bread and focaccia from a wood-fired oven, paired with locally sourced ricotta. Not to mention, the variety of local specialties like cotechino, erbazzone, and aged Parmigiano Reggiano, ensuring guests start their day on a gastronomic high.

An Experience Beyond Stay & Food

But the surprises don’t stop at food. Venture into the playroom and you’ll discover a treasure trove of limited edition Ferrari cars, vintage Ducatis, Maseratis, and Lamborghinis. A nod to Bottura’s love for “slow food and fast cars.” The experience is further enhanced with a tour of the adjoining acetaia, where over 1,200 barrels of traditional balsamic vinegar of Modena are aged.

Luxury Stays

For those looking to immerse themselves in the full Casa Maria Luigia experience, accommodations range from the Festina Lente rooms priced at 340 € to the expansive Luigina bungalow at 2,500 €.

Known to attract a star-studded clientele, it’s rumored that celebrities like David Beckham and actor Patrick Dempsey have enjoyed stays here. So, whether you’re seeking a lavish escape or a gastronomic journey, Casa Maria Luigia awaits.

Al Gatto Verde di Modena: The Evolving Passion of Massimo Bottura

Home » Travel Tips » massimo bottura

In the heart of Emilia-Romagna, where food and tradition intertwine seamlessly, a new restaurant is emerging as a beacon for not only the locals but guests from around the globe. “Al Gatto Verde di Casa Maria Luigia” is the latest culinary endeavor of Massimo Bottura, a chef of international renown.

The Region: Emilia-Romagna

Emilia-Romagna, a region nestled in the northern part of Italy, is famous for its rich gastronomic heritage. Known for products like Parmigiano Reggiano, balsamic vinegar, and the eponymous pasta shape, tortellini, the region boasts a cuisine that is often considered the heart of Italian culinary tradition.

Massimo Bottura: A Culinary Maestro

Massimo Bottura is no stranger to the global culinary scene. Owner of the three-Michelin-starred Osteria Francescana in Modena, he’s consistently been at the forefront of reimagining and revolutionizing Italian cuisine, while always respecting its roots. His artistry is not just about food; it’s a blend of culture, history, and innovation. Through dishes that tell a story, Bottura has made an indelible mark on the world of gastronomy.

Al Gatto Verde di Casa Maria Luigia: A New Chapter

“Al Gatto Verde di Casa Maria Luigia” is more than just a restaurant; it’s a statement of Bottura’s evolving passion. While the name might be a mouthful, the essence of the place is simple: it pays homage to traditional Emilian cuisine while pushing the boundaries of what’s possible.

This is not a place where one merely dines; it’s a culinary experience. Guests are invited to be a part of a story, a journey through the annals of Italian cuisine with a modern twist. Whether it’s a deconstructed version of a classic dish or an entirely new creation that draws inspiration from age-old recipes, every plate is a testament to Bottura’s genius.

The Ambience and Experience

Located amidst the picturesque landscapes of Emilia-Romagna, the restaurant is housed in an estate that offers a blend of rustic charm and contemporary elegance. The ambiance is intimate, with an underlying pulse of excitement that only a Bottura establishment can provide.

From the moment you step in, there’s a palpable sense of being a part of something special. The staff, trained under Bottura’s watchful eye, ensure that every guest’s experience is personal and memorable.

Dishes to Explore:

  1. Anguilla Emiliana: This dish marries the subtle flavors of European eel (anguilla) with sweet onions. The eel, however, isn’t presented in its usual form. It is first marinated in ‘saba,’ a syrup made from grape must. This preparation evokes the earthy flavors of Emilia while paying homage to the chef’s innovative spirit.
  2. Cod Verde: A nod to the Portuguese dish, baccalà à la Bras, this dish features cod combined with a green zabaglione sauce. The pairing highlights chef Jessica Rosval’s finesse and the harmonious blending of diverse culinary traditions.
  3. Tortellino al Forno: This is not your regular tortellini. Baked in a wood-fired oven, these tortellini are lavishly coated in a rich cream of 36-month aged Parmigiano Reggiano, presenting an intriguing play on textures and flavors.
  4. Non è una Cozza: True to Bottura’s penchant for the unexpected, this dish deceives the eyes. What seems like a mussel is, in reality, blue crab, an exotic invader of the Adriatic. Complemented by pork belly and black apple, this dish takes you on a taste journey, from the briny deep to the lush orchards of Emilia.
  5. Borlengo di Acqua di Porcini: A modern iteration of the historic borlengo, a savory crêpe from the Modenese Apennines. While traditionally garnished with a mix of lard, garlic, rosemary, and a generous sprinkle of Parmigiano Reggiano, this version teases the palate with porcini mushrooms and black truffle.
  6. Cotechino Sangue di Drago: A reinterpretation of tradition, it’s served with a sweet and sour plum sauce and hibiscus flowers, presenting a gastronomic tapestry of flavors.
  7. Agnello da Montreal a San Damaso: A dish that bridges two worlds – Rosval’s hometown, Montreal, and the Modenese countryside. This lamb preparation is accompanied by peach mostarda and ‘burnt ends’ bread, showcasing the chef’s ability to weave narratives with her food.
  8. Pasta Arsa: Evocative of the Spanish ‘arròs negre,’ this ‘burnt’ pasta, cooked risotto-style, harmoniously merges the savory intensity of deboned ribs with the mild sweetness of maple syrup. A hint of spicy pistachio lends a finishing touch.

For the Sweet Tooth:

  • Melon Lemon: An appetizing pre-dessert blending the freshness of white melon with the zesty tang of lemon peel and ruta.
  • Cielo Terra Mare: A dessert that challenges conventions, combining sea water, caviar, coal, raspberry, and rose. It’s a testament to chef Jessica’s daring and her ability to harmoniously unite seemingly discordant flavors.

Al Gatto Verde’s offerings are not just dishes; they’re stories, experiences, and memories plated up. As you dive into each course, you are not just tasting ingredients but imbibing the essence of Emilia, the audacity of Bottura, and the genius of chef Rosval.

A Comprehensive List of All Massimo Bottura’s Restaurants in Modena

When it comes to contemporary Italian cuisine, few names resonate as profoundly as Massimo Bottura. The culinary maestro, renowned for intertwining tradition with avant-garde innovation, has firmly established Modena as a global gastronomic destination. Here’s a comprehensive list of Massimo Bottura’s restaurants in Modena that have reshaped the city’s culinary landscape.

  1. Osteria Francescana
    Undoubtedly the jewel in Bottura’s crown, Osteria Francescana has been twice crowned the world’s best restaurant in the “The World’s 50 Best Restaurants” ranking. Nestled in the heart of Modena, this three Michelin-starred restaurant offers an unforgettable dining experience that intertwines tradition with modernity. Each dish narrates a story, whether it’s the evolution of Parmigiano Reggiano or an abstract representation of a walk in the Apennine woods.
  2. Franceschetta58
    While Osteria Francescana offers a fine-dining extravaganza, Franceschetta58 is its laid-back sibling. This space is where Bottura experiments, breaks down, and reconstructs traditional Italian recipes into contemporary masterpieces. With a more casual ambiance, it offers a dynamic menu that changes regularly, ensuring diners are always in for a delightful surprise.
  3. Casa Maria Luigia
    While primarily a guesthouse, Casa Maria Luigia showcases Bottura’s gastronomic excellence in a pastoral setting. Located a short drive from Modena’s city center, this 18th-century estate offers a curated dining experience for its guests. The menu often includes historic dishes from Osteria Francescana. Furthermore, the culinary journey here is heightened with immersive experiences like wood-fired feasts and cold-smoked delicacies, helmed by talented chefs like Jessica Rosval.
  4. Il Gatto Verde (Upcoming)
    The latest buzz in Modena’s culinary scene, Il Gatto Verde or “The Green Cat,” is Bottura’s venture into sustainable dining. Though much about this restaurant remains shrouded in delightful anticipation, early indications suggest that it aims to be one of the world’s most eco-friendly dining establishments. With its name resonating with a historic Modenese locale, expectations are high for a dining experience that merges the best of old and new.
  5. Il Cavallino
    Situated directly opposite Ferrari’s historic manufacturing plant in Maranello, Il Cavallino restaurant has a rich history that dates back to the 1940s when founder Enzo Ferrari would dine there with close associates. Now, in collaboration with the genius of Bottura, the restaurant has undergone a significant transformation, blending the past’s glory with a modern touch. The interiors, curated by designer and scenographer India Mahdavi, pay homage to the Ferrari world, while the menu celebrates Italian tradition, with dishes inspired by Ferrari’s family and Bottura’s signature creativity. Under the watchful eye of chef Riccardo Forapani, a 13-year veteran from Francescana, the new Cavallino is set to offer an unrivaled Italian dining experience.

In addition to these establishments, Bottura’s influence can be felt in various collaborative projects and initiatives in Modena and beyond. From the “Refettorio” soup kitchens that combat food waste and support the needy, to gastronomic events and festivals, Bottura’s touch is pervasive.

Whether you’re a culinary enthusiast eager to embark on a gastronomic pilgrimage or a casual diner seeking to savor genuine Italian flavors, Bottura’s establishments in Modena promise experiences that are both soulful and sensory. Each restaurant offers a unique lens through which to explore Bottura’s culinary philosophy, making them essential stops in the heart of Italy.

The Evocative “Il Gatto Verde”: Massimo Bottura’s Sustainable Culinary Dream

Renowned globally as a culinary titan, Massimo Bottura is set to further enthrall the world with his latest creation – “Il Gatto Verde” or “The Green Cat.” As murmurs and whispers circulate through Modena’s cobbled streets, gastronomes and aficionados eagerly await the launch of Bottura’s newest dining venture.

Drawing inspiration from a historic Modena establishment, “Il Gatto Verde” is slated for a grand September opening. However, the details remain veiled in delightful mystery. Bottura, known for his inventive spirit, hints that there’s still a lot to be unveiled and “much still to decide.”

However, there’s no doubting the meticulous effort he’s invested in curating an unparalleled team for the venture. Bottura elucidates his modern culinary philosophy by stressing the significance of innovative ideas, just as much as the quality of ingredients.

In a previous tête-à-tête with media during the 2023 edition of Identità Golose, Bottura’s passion was palpable. “My future always beckons with possibilities,” he mused. “Our upcoming Modena restaurant will be a beacon of Osteria Francescana’s legacy. Launching this year, expect it to redefine the dining landscape.”

Ranked as a luminary among Italian chef influencers, Bottura has cultivated an illustrious reputation alongside maestros like Antonino Cannavacciuolo and Carlo Cracco. With a constellation of awards for his international eateries, he now promises Italy yet another landmark with “Il Gatto Verde.”

A brief dive into Bottura’s culinary chronicles reveals a man for whom tradition and innovation are two sides of the same coin. His emblematic Osteria Francescana, a jewel in Modena’s heart, has been crowned twice as the world’s best in the coveted “The World’s 50 Best Restaurants” ranking.

His gastronomic pilgrimage saw a pivotal chapter in New York in 1993, where Bottura not only refined his culinary skills but also encountered his soulmate, Lara Gilmore. His return to Europe marked the genesis of his ascent to the zenith of global culinary arts, post a transformative association with Alain Ducasse in Monaco.

With a galaxy of Michelin stars under his belt, Bottura’s masterpieces span from Gucci Osteria in locales like Florence, Los Angeles, and Tokyo, to the illustrious Torno Subito in Dubai.

Beyond his culinary conquests, Bottura is a staunch advocate against food wastage and has been crowned as the UN’s Ambassador in this endeavor. His excellence has been recognized by institutions like the Alma Mater Studiorum – University of Bologna, which conferred upon him an honorary degree in Business Management.

With “Il Gatto Verde,” Bottura seems poised to usher in a novel chapter in sustainable dining, a venue which he hopes will be heralded among the most eco-conscious in the world. The culinary realm waits with bated breath, ready to be enchanted once more by Bottura’s genius.

When You Think Michelin Starred Restaurant Means Eating Nothing, You Haven’t Tried Arnaldo


When You Think Michelin Starred Restaurant Means Eating Nothing, You Haven’t Tried Arnaldo

In the picturesque town of Rubiera, nestled in the heart of Italy’s Emilia-Romagna region, lies a true gastronomic gem that dismantles any preconceived notions one might have about Michelin-starred dining. This is Arnaldo – Clinica Gastronomica, a sanctuary of Emilian cuisine that’s been wooing locals and travelers alike for nearly a century. If you think eating at a Michelin-starred restaurant means picking at minuscule, artfully arranged bites, let Arnaldo change your mind. Here, tradition, heartiness, and homely warmth take center stage, offering a culinary experience that is as satiating as it is refined.

The story of Arnaldo is as rich and layered as its menu, a tale that begins in 1936 with the founder, Arnaldo Degoli. Originally a violinist in a salon orchestra, Degoli was inspired by his time spent in France to open a restaurant upon his return to Italy. And so, the Clinica Gastronomica di Arnaldo was born, a place where Degoli and his wife Lina began to serve traditional recipes, some handed down by Lina’s mother and sisters and some crafted by Arnaldo himself.

In 1959, the Michelin Guide awarded Arnaldo with its first star, a prestigious honor that the restaurant has managed to retain for over six decades, making it the most enduring Michelin-starred restaurant in Italy. This consistency in quality and commitment to tradition is a testament to the restaurant’s respect for Emilian gastronomy and its dedication to the patrons who have been dining at Arnaldo for generations.

As you step into Arnaldo, housed in a 15th-century building next to the Aquila d’Oro hotel, you are welcomed into an atmospheric dining room brimming with nostalgia. The restaurant is a striking fusion of rustic elegance and authentic vintage, creating a warm and comfortable setting where time seems to have stood still.

The cuisine at Arnaldo is a celebration of Emilian gastronomic traditions. The menu features a selection of antipasti, roast and boiled meats, and desserts all displayed on trolleys that roll through the dining room. Here, you’ll find classic dishes such as erbazzone and ciccioli, homemade cappelletti in broth, tagliatelle, and the Bolognese cutlet, served with a side of history and hospitality.

The restaurant’s signature dishes have a story of their own. Degoli’s invention from the 1950s, the Spugnolata, is a rich lasagna filled with béchamel, cheese, and a sauce made from morel mushrooms. This gastronomic masterpiece has even received the seal of approval from renowned Italian chef Massimo Bottura, further cementing Arnaldo’s place in the culinary world.

Roberto Bottero, Degoli’s nephew and the current owner, along with his wife Ramona, have faithfully carried on the tradition. They continue to prepare the dishes using the same recipes taught to them by the previous chefs, ensuring the integrity of the cuisine is preserved. It’s not just the loyal clientele that appreciate this commitment to tradition; the new generation of diners, too, are drawn to this return to simplicity and authenticity.

So, if you find yourself journeying through the historic lanes of Emilia-Romagna, make a stop at the Piazza XXIV Maggio 3, the home of Arnaldo. This isn’t just a restaurant; it’s a culinary clinic that has been healing souls with comfort food and offering a palate-cleansing perspective on Michelin-starred dining for decades. Arnaldo’s enduring appeal lies not in the trappings of modern gastronomy, but in its unyielding adherence to tradition and quality. It’s a place where the past and present coalesce to create a dining experience that is truly timeless.

Tuck into a hearty bowl of homemade tagliatelle or savour the exquisite flavours of their signature Spugnolata. As you dine, take a moment to soak in the nostalgic ambiance, the echoes of Arnaldo Degoli’s violin, and the culinary legacy that has been preserved within these walls. This is more than just a Michelin-starred restaurant; it’s a gastronomic journey through time, a celebration of Emilian cuisine, and a testament to the enduring appeal of traditional, hearty, and soulful food.

Dining at Arnaldo – Clinica Gastronomica isn’t merely about having a meal; it’s about experiencing the rich tapestry of Italian culinary history, understanding the love and passion that goes into maintaining centuries-old traditions, and appreciating the charm and comfort of honest, hearty food. It’s an experience that will nourish your body, warm your heart, and stay with you long after the last morsel has been savored.

So, the next time you think Michelin-starred dining means tiny portions and pretentious offerings, remember Arnaldo – Clinica Gastronomica. This is a place that proudly defies such stereotypes, offering instead a Michelin-starred experience that’s as substantial as it is sophisticated, as welcoming as it is exceptional. And who knows? After a visit here, you might just find your definition of Michelin-starred dining forever changed.

Massimo Bottura Opens The Cavallino Ferrari Restaurant in Maranello.

WHO IS MASSIMO BOTTURA?

Massimo Bottura began his culinary career in 1986 by assuming control of the Trattoria del Campazzo, a restaurant situated just a few kilometers away from the center of Modena. This was, for him, a “reeducation center”, the place where he shaped his gastronomical identity, often crafting recipes that combined regional dishes with light brushes of French cuisine, through techniques he learned from renowned chef Georges Coigny. In 1995, he opened the OSTERIA FRANCESCANA, which in 2011 was awarded 3 Michelin stars, and achieved 1st place in The World’s 50 Best Restaurants list in 2016 and 2018.

Bottura is also a FERRARI lover and has recently become a loyal ambassador for the brand, assuming the helm of the newly-opened “Ristorante Cavallino” in collaboration with French designer India Mahdavi, who was in charge of reinterpreting the restaurant’s original design in a modern light, while retaining the most distinguishing features from its glorious past.

WHAT IS CAVALLINO?

The Cavallino _has a history that is deeply linked with the history of Ferrari itself and, consequently, plays an important role in the annals of the whole Emilia-Romagna region. It was originally a farmhouse that served as the company’s “canteen” from the moment Enzo Ferrari purchased the land that now serves as Ferrari’s main manufacturing complex. In 1950, it became the “Ristorante Cavallino”_, evoking the prancing horse emblem that always identified the Ferrari label.

The historic complex has served as the main venue for Scuderia Ferrari’s celebrations and other memorable events organized by the company. Distinguished members of royalty, such as Princess Liliana de Rèthy and Prince Bernardo of Holland have graced this facility with their presence in the past. Enzi Ferrari himself used to eat there twice a day until he passed away in 1988. 21 years later, the Cavallino would have to close its doors and would not operate until its grand reopening on July 13th, an event in which various F1 champions and legendary personalities gathered.

THE DESIGN AND DECOR

In the NEWLY-IMAGINED CAVALLINO, tradition blends in perfect harmony with the standards of today’s design language in order to enhance its outdoor and interior architecture, as well as its overall Italian identity. All in an attempt to provide consumers with a visual value proposal that matches the ristorante’s culinary excellence.

The complex’s new red façade is meant to signify Cavallin0’s historical bonds with Ferrari, and its decorations and furniture scream “traditional Italian trattoria”. As you enter the restaurant, you’re introduced to a series of arches that connect its different areas. The tiles are placed in a chequerboard pattern layout of dark and light terracotta. The furniture is also themed with Ferrari’s color code, while the walls display posters, photographs, memorabilia, and other maxi-print images that are both decorative and informative, providing guests with a “bite” of Ferrari’s sporting and industrial trajectory.

Ferrari’s _”Cavallino” _or Prancing Horse logo is also a prominent feature shown in most areas inside and outside the restaurant. It introduces itself visually to guests from the moment they enter the building, and it’s also imprinted on many of the surfaces, on the restaurant’s wallpaper, and stamped on the frosted film applied to windows and glass doors.

Marco Bay was in charge of reshaping the garden or patio area. It has the feeling of an open-air dining room with a pergola and various plants enclosing the entire space. On the rooftop, guests have access to two private lounges, as well as a privileged view of the main entrance of the Ferrari factory.

The Grill Room is an indoor area that graces guests with amazing views of the Mediterranean-styled outdoor patio and a system of grilles installed on the walls, allowing customers to supervise the preparation of dishes.

THE FOOD

Cavallino’s GASTRONOMIC PROPOSAL takes the more traditional Modenese cuisine and adds some modern touches and foreign twists, complementing the restaurant’s personal signature. In the words of Bottura (paraphrasing): Every dish has a story behind it, and it’s cooking that is impossible to say no to.

Among the menu’s main highlights, you can find the trademarked Tartare Cavallino, consisting of beef tartare seasoned with red fruit powder and dressed in Béarnaise sauce for a French finish. Another original in the Cavallino menu is the Cotechino Alla Rossini, a version of the more traditional Filetto Alla Rossini but topped with black truffle shards and sour cherries to sweeten the sausage. Their take on the classic tortellini carries a more SOCIAL MESSAGE, being handmade by the Tortellante training project (directed towards people with autism), in Modena’s redzore (housewives) tradition. Other delicacies include the Gnocco Fritto e Salumi, the_Baccalà _and the _Gelato Alla Crema_with traditional Villa Manodori balsamic vinegar.

Hard Times Booking Osteria Francescana? You Can Try Gucci Osteria in Florence

Osteria Francescana is a renowned restaurant by Michelin’s star chef Massimo Bottura. The restaurant offers high-quality Italian food and is located in Modena. Finding a table at this amazing Osteria can be quite a challenge. You have to book with months in advance, this is how popular and how requested Massimo Bottura’s restaurant is. Not for anything, it has been awarded not with one, but with three Michelin’s Stars. The chef made it into the World’s 50 Best restaurants with his Osteria Francescana, making having a meal at one of his restaurants is a must if you want to taste high-cuisine made in Italy.

For all those who have struggled to find a spot but still do not want to miss what it means to eat Massimo Bottura’s cuisine, there is some good news.

Gucci Osteria Florence

The talented and renowned chef has recently opened another osteria, this time at a new location. In the beautiful, culturally and historically rich city of Florence, there is a new landmark that you don’t want to miss, especially if you are a foodie. Massimo Bottura opened Gucci Osteria, on the ground floor of “Palazzo Della Mercanzia” . The building hosts the famous Gucci Garden, which contains the archives of the Maison, the museum and a beautiful boutique of this magnificent luxury brand. To make the whole experience a lot more intriguing, Gucci has partnered with Massimo Bottura to delight the brand’s customers with his high-quality cuisine, all in a wonderful setting where design meets fine dining.

The restaurant, called Gucci Osteria is rather small and can seat 35 people at a time, which makes having a meal a rather cozy and enjoyable experience. For the restaurant, Massimo Bottura has ideated a menu which he named “Vieni Nel Mondo Con Noi” (meaning “Come In The World With Us” in Italian), which is inspired by the chef’s numerous trips and experiences abroad, all adapted to the Italian cuisine. Massimo Bottura is well known for his creation of dishes that have roots in the Italian traditional cuisine which also refer to history, art, and philosophy, making the dish a sort of Bottura’s adaptation of the story of his beautiful country. The menu includes main dishes, sides, and delicious desserts. Bottura is assisted in the Florentine location by the chef Karime Lopez, specialized in patisserie and who worked side by side with Bottura at Osteria Francescana. Karime Lopez helps Bottura creating and ideating the dishes, with the result being a special mix of Italian, Mexican and Peruvian cuisine, which will make your mind and your tasting buds blow!

The menu includes iconic dishes of the Italian culture but also some variations of the most traditional dishes, in a sort of “innovative” tradition where customers can explore the world by sitting at the table and having delicious food. In the words of the chef, Massimo Bottura, the idea of the restaurant is to remember that once, just like today, during the Renaissance, Florence was at the center of culture, and it was a melting pot of different traditions.

The Menu.

The menu is a la carte and includes fish, meat, pasta, risotto, and several side dishes. The prices are similar to those of Osteria Francescana. The culinary experience is uncomparable and the dishes are wonderfully presented, with the best combination of flavors and colors that are a delight both to the eyes and to the mouth. If you are unsure about what to pick on the menu, you can always go for a tasting menu, which might seem a bit expensive but it is all worth the money. It includes 7 courses and it is the best way to try a little bit of everything from the chef and getting an overview of his style.

The atmosphere

The atmosphere of the restaurant is particularly good, thanks to its special setting in a beautiful historical palace. You enter the restaurant through the Gucci Shop, which sets the bar high for the service and set up an idea of quality and luxury. However, the ambiance is not too stiff and you can have an amazing experience at this beautifully designed restaurant. The atmosphere is mostly casual, dressing up does come up to you. The service is sublime and the staff does everything they can to ensure you have a good time at the restaurant. They will explain the dishes to you and a sommelier will suggest you the best wine for your meal.

The chef ensures that every detail is under control. The combinations of the flavors and the presentation of the dishes are all studied to the minimum detail which makes every dish unique and particularly beautiful, not only tasty.

Booking Process.

Please be aware that even this restaurant needs to be booked in advance. You can do so through the Gucci Garden website. The restaurant is open every day from 12:30 to 3 PM and from 7 PM to 10 PM for both lunch and dinner. As said before, the location is perfect and you can easily reach the restaurant from the center of Florence, being less than 200 meters from the famous Palazzo Vecchio. The piazza of the Palace, which is full of tourists during the day, gets quiet at night and creates a wonderful atmosphere where to have a delicious meal at a high-quality restaurant.

All in all, eating at Massimo Bottura’s restaurant is an unforgettable experience that you must-have, especially if you are into fine dining. If you happen to be in Florence or if you simply did not find a spot at the Osteria Francescana in Modena, you should try getting to Gucci Osteria. As mentioned before, the prices are a bit high, but the quality of the food, the experience, the atmosphere, and the exemplary service will be all worth it. Again, if you are passing by Florence, you might want to consider spending a night or having a wonderful lunch at this amazing restaurant, you will not regret it.

So, are you up to have a meal at one of the world’s best restaurants?

How To Get a Reservation at Osteria Francescana? Actually, You Can’t

osteria francescana met Bottura

Or rather, you can try. But it might be more complicated than you’d imagine.

The world-famous award-winning, (three) Michelin star holding restaurant has become a celebrity of its own – one everyone who decides to visit Italy has at least once thought about eating at. And with good reason, since the dishes served by Chef Bottura at the Osteria Francescana find their roots in traditional, top-quality Emilian cuisine, but without forgetting to make a move towards the future, innovating and presenting products and produce with a refreshing, new look. The only problem? Booking a lunch or a dinner can be quite the process.

The Osteria’s Fame

In the past few years, Massimo Bottura, the chef behind the Osteria Francescana, has been praised and regarded by the culinary world for a number of reasons: for being true to his roots in his style, mission and choice of ingredients, for bringing innovative ideas – literally – to the table, and for creating new dishes that contribute to create a unique dining experience.
Thanks to this, Chef Bottura’s fame has skyrocketed to the Olympus of Italian haute-cuisine, making his restaurant, one of the most exclusive in Italy, and the best restaurant in the world, according to “The World’s 50 Best Restaurants 2016”. The waiting list to book a table is of four months, so if you need to book for a specific date, or period of time (based on the days you’ll be in Modena), you need to be prepared.

How to Book

First of all, as we already established, the restaurant is fully booked, and sold out, for the next 4 months. New reservations start on April for the month of July, and so on.
At this link, http://www.osteriafrancescana.it/reservations/ you can see the reservations’ calendar with available dates and, if you skip forward using the arrows, you can see the instructions about booking a table: reservations open on a certain date and time, so if you want to get in early on the waiting list, prepare to call, or email the staff accordingly.
By making a reservation you are in fact inquiring about booking a table, and the Osteria will get back at you in the next 96 hours – enough time to sort the tables and pick clients from the waiting list for that date. If someone cancels their reservation, that’s all the more chance you have for your request to go through, but it can be though.
Being flexible with dates and times is a great way to get in the Osteria’s “good graces” and your reservation is more likely to be confirmed. A great way to show the staff you’re fine with multiple dates, and okay with going either at lunch or dinner is making a call.
For a successful call, remember to be nice and accommodating. Ask the staff if there’s something that can be done to fit you in, pointing out your availability.

More info can be found clicking on the following Quora and Tripadvisor links. Along with inquiries about how to make a reservation and how to contact the restaurant, you can also find other tips, reviews, and frequently asked questions about the Osteria’s dress-code and more.
https://www.quora.com/How-hard-is-it-to-get-a-reservation-at-Osteria-Francescana
https://www.tripadvisor.co.uk/FAQ_Answers-g187803-d1160010-t918838-I_ll_be_in_Modena_in_a_few_months_how_did_you.html

Alternatives to the Osteria Francescana

Of course managing to find a spot at the Osteria can be done, but if you couldn’t book a table in time, or your reservation didn’t go through, don’t fret: there are more fantastic dining experiences to be had in and around Modena that’ll be sure to leave you a great memory (and after-taste) of your visit to the city.
Here are a couple of alternatives that you can rely on for a great lunch or dinner out, and don’t forget that the internet is always available if you need to look up restaurants and osterie on the spot. Or, you could just look around, and you’ll see plenty of quaint little places with great local and traditional menus.

The Osteria Franceschetta

Chef Bottura also manages this Osteria, with the collaboration of other famous chefs. The menu is rich of interesting, fusion-style dishes that still find their roots in Italian and local, Emilian cuisine, but without forgetting a twist in the presentation, tastes and colors.
Choosing this restaurant will make it so that you’ll still enjoy an incredible experience alongside Bottura’s ideas and creations but in a different ambient, with more affordable options that those of the Osteria Francescana, and a more relaxed booking experience.
Reservation is advised, and can be done through the Osteria’s website:
http://www.franceschetta.it/en/

L’Erba del Re – Award-winning Restaurant in Modena

This restaurant can boast one Michelin star, along with many other awards and great results achieved through the years. If you couldn’t get into Osteria Francescana, the Ristorante L’Erba del Re is an excellent alternative, with traditional and innovative dishes, made with locally sourced and top-quality ingredients. Tasting menus for a well-rounded culinary experience are available.
http://www.lerbadelre.it/

Who is Massimo Bottura?

A true son of Emilia Romagna, the culinary capital of Italy, Massimo Bottura was born in Modena in September 1962 and is one of a growing band of innovative chefs that are pushing the boundaries of food and dining as we have come to know them. Massimo’s first experience of food and ingredients came from the many hours he claims he spent under his grandmother’s kitchen table, where he went to seek refuge from his older brothers. Here, at her knee, his great love affair with all things culinary began, and he took the first steps of his journey to the culinary excellence that would one day see his restaurant receiving no less than 3 Michelin stars.

A bit about his background.

Massimo did not initially set out to become a chef; he was studying law in 1986, when he heard that a roadside trattoria on the outskirts of Modena was for sale. He decided to take a break from his studies, bought and renovated the building and a week later he opened his first restaurant, the Trattoria del Campazzo; the rest, as they say, is history and the law faculty’s loss was the Culinary world’s gain.

It was not an overnight success story for Massimo Bottura, but rather a journey of discovery as he first apprenticed with Chef Georges Cogny, where the foundations of his culinary knowledge were laid down with a good grounding in the principles of regional Italian cooking combined with classic French cuisine. He later worked with renowned chefs Alain Ducasse (Hotel de Paris in Monte Carlo) and Ferran Adria of El Bulli fame in Spain.

Massimo opens his restaurant in his home town: Modena.

In 1995 he opened Osteria Francescana in the medieval city centre of his home town, Modena, with the intention of combining contemporary art, traditional Italian cuisine and his now-renowned innovative genius. In the following years Massimo and Osteria Francescana received numerous awards, including his first Michelin Star in 2002. A second star followed in 2006 and in 2012 he received his third Michelin star, making him one of only 7 Italian chefs to have been so honoured.
In addition, Osteria Francescana was named the Best Italian Restaurant in the world, and the 4th Best Restaurant in the World in 2011, on The World’s 50 Best Restaurant List. In the latest list for 2013, he has climbed yet another rung of the ladder and is placed at no 3!

The signature dishes of Massimo Bottura.

And the food, you may ask… Massimo himself describes each of his innovative dishes as being a reconstruction of an idea, a memory or a smile, and since he has lived in Modena all his life, the region plays an important role in his food. To whet your appetite, here are a couple of the dishes which will be served for his New Year’s Eve dinner – dedicated to his friends around the world with inspiring dishes from all corners of the globe. From Italy comes Sea urchin spaghetti in the Neopolitan tradition with aglio, olio e peperoncino (olive oil, garlic and chilli), from France there is Foie gras and white truffle (a marriage of French and Italian delicacies) in an Emilian ravioli. Nordic countries are represented by the Aurora borealis dish – porcini, black truffles, chestnuts, chocolate and pumpkin beneath a blanket of leaves.

20131214-142053.jpg
Massimo at a recent food event in Modena

Supercars, Super Foods of Modena

Connoisseurs of wonderful cars and superb cuisine will find a holiday in the delightful medieval town of Modena in northern Italy most rewarding.  Modena and near-by Parma are the home of Italy’s greatest exports, Parma Ham, Parmesan Cheese, Balsamic vinegar and, of course, Ferrari and Maserati.  Plan your next holiday to include enough time in this region to get a true taste of some of the best that Italy has to offer.  Here are some of the attractions that you must include in your holiday plans.

Romanesque cathedral
Cathedral of Modena

Hombre Farm – Motorvalley Panini Collection Tour.

Matteo Panini is a young farmer in the region, one of many Parmesan cheese producers, who also happens to  have an amazing collection of motor vehicles which have been passed down to him from his illustrious family which included his father Umberto, who together with his brothers Benito, Franco and Guiseppe, invented the famous Panini stickers.

The motor collection started with tractors, which all farmers needed, and one of the exhibits is a 1934 Landini, still in perfect working order.  After tractors came motorcycles, the most common mode of transport after WWII, and after that came the wonderful cars, featuring examples from Maserati that are thought to be the most important collection of these super cars in the world.  In addition to Italian motor vehicles, there are also many examples from other countries such as British motorbikes from Norton, and even a Messerschmitt car and a Lotus!

A visit to the Hombre farm is an excellent family day trip.  First visit the dairy, where 12 wheels of Parmesan are produced daily, and then enjoy the motor museum.

20120512-214621.jpg
The Maserati Eldorado at the Panini Museum

Osteria Francescana

No culinary visit to Modena would be complete without having a meal at this wonderful restaurant, the brain-child of world-renowned chef Massimo Bottura, who grew up in Modena and developed his love of cooking by watching his mother prepare food.  Massimo has come a long way since then!  His food is a modern interpretation of classic Italian cuisine, but this chef, who has worked with some of the big names of the culinary world, such as Alain Ducasse and Ferran Adrio (of El Bulli) is forever pushing the boundaries.  He won his first Michelin star in 2002, a second in 2006 and a third in 2011, as well as numerous other awards and distinctions.  This year, 2013, La Francescana came in 3rd of the 50 best restaurants in the world.  Of course you have to book well in advance, and of course it is expensive, but it is worth it!  His signature dish for 2013 is called Camouflage – a hare in the woods; it is made up of a thin layer of foie gras decorated with various powders composed of hare blood, chestnut and several herbs – perhaps this dish is not for everyone, but it is an example of the chefs’ innovation.  Of course, there are more conventional dishes to suit all palates.

osteria francescana met Bottura
Chef Massimo Bottura at his restaurant La Francescana in Modena – Source

Traditional Balsamic Vinegar of Modena

Genuine Balsamic Vinegar has been produced in Modena for centuries, and is a unique artisanal product, completely unlike regular vinegar.  The basic ingredient is grape Must (juice) from predominantly Trebbiano grapes (sometimes with the addition of Lambrusco grapes).  The must is simmered (never boiled!) for a lengthy period to reduce and concentrate the liquid.  This liquid is then allowed to ferment and mature for a minimum of 12 years in the case on a “true” Balsamic.  This wonderful product, known as Black Gold, can sometimes be matured as long as 25 years and a new batch is traditionally started to mark the birth of a baby girl, and treasured to become a part of her dowry!  Balsamic vinegar should be used sparingly – just a drop or two to enhance a sliver of Parmesan or a slice of Parma Ham.  Make sure to visit one of the Balsamic producers of Modena during your visit to learn the process of the production, learn how to use it, taste the wonderful nectar and, of course, buy some to take home with you to remind you of Modena.

ACETO2

css.php