World-renowned chef Massimo Bottura continues to shape Italy’s contemporary food scene with his latest project, Il Gatto Verde (“The Green Cat”). As news spread through Modena’s historic streets, food lovers and culinary professionals alike have been closely following the development of this new restaurant concept.
Inspired by a historic Modena venue, Il Gatto Verde is expected to open in early autumn. While many details remain intentionally undisclosed, Bottura has hinted that the project is still evolving — leaving room for experimentation, creativity and sustainable innovation.
What is already clear is the level of attention invested in building a strong culinary team and refining a modern gastronomic vision that balances creative ideas with uncompromising ingredient quality — a signature approach that has defined Bottura’s career.
Speaking during the 2023 edition of Identità Golose, Bottura described the project as a natural extension of the Osteria Francescana philosophy, suggesting that the new venue will explore contemporary dining while remaining deeply rooted in Modena’s culinary identity.
Today, Bottura stands among the most influential Italian chefs internationally, alongside figures such as Antonino Cannavacciuolo and Carlo Cracco. His restaurants have earned global recognition for both creativity and consistency, making each new opening a highly anticipated event.
A defining chapter of Bottura’s journey began in New York in the early 1990s, where he refined his technical skills and met his wife and creative partner, Lara Gilmore. After further professional development in Europe, including collaboration with Alain Ducasse in Monaco, he returned to Italy to build what would become one of the most celebrated culinary institutions in the world.
His flagship restaurant, Osteria Francescana, located in the historic centre of Modena, has twice been ranked as the world’s best restaurant in The World’s 50 Best Restaurants list. Today, Bottura’s global portfolio includes concepts such as Gucci Osteria da Massimo Bottura in Florence, Los Angeles and Tokyo, as well as Torno Subito in Dubai.
Beyond fine dining, Bottura is widely respected for his commitment to sustainability and the fight against food waste. His social initiatives have received international recognition, and the University of Bologna awarded him an honorary degree in Business Management for his contribution to innovation and social impact in gastronomy.
With Il Gatto Verde in Modena, Bottura aims to explore a new chapter of environmentally responsible dining, potentially positioning the restaurant among the most eco-conscious culinary projects in Europe.
If you’re planning a visit to explore Bottura’s culinary world and Modena’s wider cultural heritage, you may find this guide useful: Things to Do in Modena.
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