Under the Apron Strings: A Trip to Modena
On October 12th, Alton and I set off to Italy for a much needed vacation. Our first stop: Modena.
We stayed at Casa Maria Luigia, an elegant bed and breakfast in the Emilian countryside. Started by three Michelin Star chef, Massimo Bottura, Casa Maria Luigia offers a first class culinary experience. Before you get to any of the restaurants Maria Luigia is known for, you are met with delicious breakfast and ample food and drink. After our fill of coffee, breakfast food and light snacks, we spent our time in Modena eating our way through three of Massimo’s four restaurants.
First, lunch at Francechetta58, Massimo’s bistro, pictured above. Here, they pay homage to the land and traditions of Modena while bringing in contemporary experiences. For dinner, we had the opportunity to experience the Francescana at Maria Luigia, tasting menu. Nine courses took us through a seasonal taste of Italy and a look inside the creative mind of Massimo Bottura, executed and expounded by Jessical Rosval. I had a chance to talk to Jessica and watch her in the kitchen – her talent and kindness made our dining experience.
Pictured below, from left to right: Massimo and Alton, "Oops I Dropped the Tart" lemon tart, and Jessica Rosval
The next day, we headed to the Ferrari Museum before lunch.
Lunch at Ristorante Cavallino takes the spirit of Ferrari and reimagines it within the dining room. The restaurant takes the marriage of quality, technology, craftsmanship and performance that Ferrari is known for in their cars and channels it into a dining experience.
We will see you in Bologna in the next blog, with more food and fun in Italy.