This hidden gem can be hard to find as it is through an arched entry way, off the the main street of via Roma. There is a sign, but it's small and not on the main street, but rather tucked about 5 feet into the archway. I found this restaurant on google and thought I was lost when the directions took me too this archway until I saw the sign. You will walk into a driveway that is surrounded by residences, but don't let that fool you to thinking you've wondered into a hole in the wall eatery.
The restaurant is very unassuming from the outside and it's surroundings, but once inside, you will be surprised by its sleek and modern decor. I ate here a few times and it's always been the same guy that works handles everything in the front of house. He's friendly but doesn't speak too much English, so we didn't have too many conversations. They have a Menu di Stagione (menu of the season) so it will change periodically he told me. Although the menu was the same during my 5 weeks in that town, there was enough variety for the few meals I had there.
The food is refined and beautifully plated, not rustic traditional and authentic Italian as small towns usually serve. My partner and I wanted to get a few different things to share, so he had the kitchen half the portions and plate then equally beautiful each as if we had both ordered individual plates. This was definitely an unexpected but most welcomed surprise. And they don't charge you a penny extra for that, unlike back here in the States where it is common to be charged extra for splitting/sharing an entree.
The Tartare di Vitello al Gin was delicious and very different than other tartares I've had. The Blecs di Grano Saraceno was also wonderful. We tried a couple of different steaks, from the few times dining there, and they were well grilled & seasoned. The desserts were solid, as expected. This restaurant was one of my first meals here in Maniago and I made sure it was the last lunch I had before flying home. read more