Author: The Smalls

Set directly on the shores of Lake Varese, Ristorante Vecchia Riva offers a refined lakeside dining experience far removed from the crowds of Italy’s more famous lakes. Elegant yet relaxed, the restaurant combines beautiful waterfront views with seasonal Italian cuisine and warm Lombard hospitality.

Whether for a leisurely lunch, sunset aperitivo, or romantic dinner, the setting creates a sense of tranquility that feels increasingly rare in northern Italy.

Hidden within Milan’s creative Tortona district, Langosteria has spent more than a decade redefining luxury seafood dining in Italy. What began on Via Savona as a bold vision has evolved into one of the country’s most influential restaurant groups, yet the original location remains the soul of the brand.

The restaurant combines cosmopolitan sophistication with an unmistakably Italian sense of hospitality. The atmosphere is lively and elegant, attracting an international clientele of fashion insiders, entrepreneurs, celebrities, and discerning travelers who appreciate exceptional ingredients presented with confidence and style.

Seafood is the undisputed star. From spectacular shellfish platters and pristine crudi to signature pasta dishes and Mediterranean specialties, every plate reflects an uncompromising commitment to sourcing and quality. The wine program is equally impressive, while the service strikes the perfect balance between professionalism and warmth.

Langosteria feels less like a restaurant and more like a stage where Milan’s social, fashion, and culinary worlds intersect.

In a city known for fashion, design, and sophisticated dining, Sbunda offers something refreshingly different: a direct flight to Calabria, no boarding pass required.

This beloved sandwich shop and delicatessen celebrates the bold flavors and traditions of Southern Italy. Inspired by the sandwiches of childhood and the recipes of Grandma Caterina, Sbunda specializes in authentic Calabrian ingredients — capocollo, soppressata, ‘nduja, Tropea red onions, sun-dried tomato spreads, local cheeses, and countless regional specialties that rarely receive this much attention in Milan.

The concept is beautifully simple. Guests build their own sandwiches from an extraordinary selection of ingredients, creating combinations that feel personal rather than prescribed. Every sandwich is made fresh, every ingredient tells a story, and every bite transports you 1,156 kilometers south to Calabria.

Part sandwich shop, part gastronomic boutique, and part nostalgia machine, Sbunda has become a favorite among locals seeking something genuine in a city often obsessed with what’s next. Here, tradition isn’t a trend. It’s the entire point.

Set directly on the sands of the prestigious Augustus Beach Club, Bambaissa is one of Forte dei Marmi’s most sought-after seaside dining destinations. Framed by elegant white sails and uninterrupted views of the Versilia coastline, the restaurant feels like an oasis within an oasis. A place where sophisticated beach life and exceptional cuisine come together effortlessly.

The menu celebrates the sea while embracing a contemporary culinary perspective. Local seafood specialties are paired with creative influences and refined techniques, resulting in dishes that feel both distinctly Italian and refreshingly modern. At lunch, the atmosphere is relaxed and sun-soaked, with fresh salads, Tuscan favorites, and light coastal fare designed for leisurely afternoons by the water. By evening, Bambaissa transforms into one of Forte dei Marmi’s most elegant dining rooms, where beautifully presented seafood, thoughtful wine pairings, and candlelit views create an unforgettable seaside experience.

The restaurant’s setting is equally remarkable. Open-air cabanas, beachfront lounges, private dining spaces, and garden retreats allow every meal to feel personalized. Whether arriving for a sunset aperitivo, a romantic dinner beneath the stars, or a celebration with friends, Bambaissa captures the effortless glamour that has made Forte dei Marmi a favorite destination for generations.