Wine Hotel Retici Balzi

This simple yet welcoming family-run restaurant is situated on the wine route that wends its way through the hills behind Sondrio, less than 5km away. The dining room boasts a cheerful open fireplace (also used as a grill), while an attractive outdoor terrace offers fine views of the valley. The cuisine focuses mainly on local recipes and ingredients, with some main courses cooked over the grill.

This long-established restaurant just outside Sondrio has been run for the past decade by Gianluca, whose experience injects new life into traditional dishes from the local region, as well as introducing the occasional Mediterranean twist. There’s a simpler menu at lunchtime, plus a good selection of local wines and cheeses on sale at takeaway prices near the restaurant entrance.

Situated in the upper part of town, surrounded by woods and vineyards, this simple, family-run restaurant is highly inviting. Salumi, meat and cheeses make a frequent appearance on the menu, together with dishes inspired by old regional recipes, such as chisciöi, sciatt and taroz. In summer, make the most of the beautiful panoramic terrace.

This typical family-run restaurant serves typical mountain cuisine, although a few fish dishes also feature on the menu. Highlights include game, cheese and the delicious homemade pizzoccheri pasta. Ask the young son for recommendations from the wine list, which includes labels from Valtellina.