Appartamenti Monte Selce

“Clean”, almost naive dishes full of clear and defined flavours take centre-stage at Incàlmo, where the cuisine is distinctly unfussy with no unnecessary frills. As a result, ingredients are clearly recognisable (as is the way they are prepared), allowing guests to focus on their contrasting textures and flavours. In the chef’s view, “if one element does stand out, it’s probably the bitter flavours that we enjoy playing with,” says the chef, “while at the same time balancing this with other elements. We also prioritise the use of vegetables.”

Situated in a town famous for its thermal baths, this classically elegant restaurant serves meat and fish cuisine including specialities from the Veneto such as Berico ham, bigoli pasta with sardines, and veal liver with onions.

At this restaurant, the two brothers (the owners) who work together front of house come from a family of farmers whose meat features on the menu, while two other brothers, originally from Rome but settled in the Veneto for many years, are at the helm in the kitchen. The original and colourful cuisine aims to please both the eyes and the palate, with dishes showcased on tasting menus and an à la carte – the quail served with a caponata of apricots, yucca and porcini mushroom mayonnaise was particularly memorable. Housed in the Villa Lussana, with its seven Art Nouveau-style guestrooms, the rest

Il Baretto on the outskirts of Padova is a must for anyone who loves classic, traditional fish and seafood, thanks to its menu which includes a number of typical Venetian dishes. The top-quality fish is skilfully prepared to bring out its full flavour and distinctive characteristics, providing a real treat for the tastebuds in this inland temple to the sea.

Recognized as the only “Historic Establishment of Italy” in the province of Rovigo, this inviting, family-run trattoria offers traditional cooking with a strong emphasis on meat dishes, served in typically generous portions. The menu is enhanced by daily specials, shared verbally, which can be enjoyed in the warm, welcoming dining rooms or on the charming terrace at the entrance. A park with a natural pond and swimming pool provides an ideal setting also for events.

Occupying old stables in the square where the town’s livestock market was once held, this restaurant boasts charming views of the Prato della Valle gardens. Also home to a bistro serving aperitif snacks and a cocktail bar for post-dinner drinks, the main restaurant is very much the focal point here, with its dark-coloured, contemporary decor and colourful, modern cuisine. In summer, don’t miss the summer terrace with its fine views.