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The Bistrot de Venise takes you through an intriguing and fascinating journey through the history of Venetian cuisine and fine wine. Open since 1993, this charming place is the epitome of a uber chic and trendy restaurant, but the touches of class are equally present, making this one of those rarities where classical and contemporary come together in a most beautiful harmony.

Since the time it has thrown its doors to the public, the Bistrot de Venise has attracted various writers, poets and other well known personalities who have lent it the air of being a cultural epicentre. There?s also a sense of soothing calm; the décor is understated and elegant and the dimly lit rooms, stained glass paintings, dark wood, and cream walls with old framed photographs and posters help to create a convivial and welcoming atmosphere. The al fresco arrangement is true to its name, providing a beautiful setting in the gently unfolding dusk, perfect for a romantic and intimate dinner.

A look at the menu will surprise those who are expecting typical Italian fare, because their basic premise is to introduce the tastes of historical Venetian cuisine, going back by quite a few centuries, to the 14th onwards. Naturally, the tastes are unique and pleasing and something you will remember with delight. Consider the old fashioned pasta with saffron, lamb meat and offal sauce followed by the veal liver with onions and polenta and ending with an almond and pistachio pudding with candied lemon as an excellent example of the sampling menu.

An à la carte in this section could bring you hors d'oeuvres such as carpaccio of marinated sturgeon on artichoke; duck breast confit with mango chutney and fennel jelly or a duet of salt cod fish with chick peas. For first course, there's homemade large ravioli filled with game and pumpkin sauce; tagliatelle with lagoon eel and aromatic herbs, or risotto with dried stock fish.

As the meal progresses, the main courses may include venison fillet with eggplant flan and sautéed vegetable pie; fish baked with potatoes, tomato, olives and caper fruits or baked veal tongue with spices and stewed savoy cabbage. End with fresh cheese and pine nut fritters with wine and cinnamon sauce; glazed beetroots, mascarpone cream and macaroons or crème brûlée with pumpkin and ginger ice cream.

As part of the venture of delving into historical food, the wines at Bistrot de Venise also mirror this fascination with the past and you can spot many a rare wine in their enoteca. Their research has been deep and accurate, helping them uncover unique gems of the wine tradition. Some of the finds include Bianchetta, Rabosi and Oseleta varieties as well as the great classics of the North East and they have over 60 wines by the glass with more than 200 highly select Italian and French labels. Regular wine tasting sessions and other events make this a well loved hub. More information can be found on their Website.

Located 15 km from the centre of Milan this restaurant, an old post office which has been fully restored, offers creative cuisine in a classic and elegant atmosphere inspired by the region and its traditions. In addition to the ?à la carte? menu there are 3 ?themed? taster menus all accompanied by a wide selection of wines.

Since 1873 the Canton family have promoted the culture of taste and hospitality. Chef Andrea Canton is assisted by his mother Lidia and his aunt Daniela. In the dining room the chef's sister, Emanuela, and her husband Piero welcome guests in an intimate and elegant atmosphere where you can taste refined dishes and precious wines. On the upper floor you will find a three-star hotel with 7 rooms, all en-suite.

The restaurant is located in a panoramic position, overlooking the vast Alpago valley and the Santa Croce lake, whose clear blue waters meet the blue of the sky on bright sunny days. Riccardo represents the fourth generation to run the restaurant. He is meticulous in sourcing local produce, such as beans, potatoes, lamb and beef, respecting local traditions but adding a modern touch. Alongside the most modern cookery techniques, Riccardo offers his own cheeses, made in his own small dairy, as well as a selection of his own cold pork meats from the animals he breeds and butchers himself. You can go for walks in the green woods around the restaurant or hang-glide from Monte Dolada. You can also surf in Santa Croce lake and play golf nearby in Altopiano del Consiglio, where you can also visit the shepherds' huts.

The Oasis - Sapori Antichi restaurant, run by the Fischetti family, which has of 21 members, offers cuisine inspired by the region: every dish originates from family traditions or from information gathered in the region by word of mouth. The preference for simple and genuine things combines with refinement for the more demanding palates brushing up the memory of kitchens filled with fumes and grandmothers busy at the stoves.

The restaurant is located on the beach with a wide veranda where guests can listen to the sound of the sea and enjoy the stateliness of Monte Conero. Roberto's cuisine is a joyful compromise between creativity and tradition.

A few km from Milan, four brothers run this comfortable restaurant. The two young chefs offer creative cuisine comprising meat and fish with special attention to the dishes and territorial products. The wine cellar offers a vast selection of Italian and foreign wines, a wide assortment of cheeses and to complete your stay, a fine choice of excellent spirits and cigars.

Elegant restaurant in a mansion at the historical centre of Parma, which has been run by the Parizzi family since 1946. Creative cuisine that ranges from meat and fish to traditional dishes. Multi-prize winning wine list offering over 1100 Italian and international wines. Seasonal menu.