08/10/2025: A truly beautiful restaurant with authentic Italian feel. The food was first class with waiting staff who spoke beautiful English was helpful and courteous.
Will definitely return when in Modena next .
07/10/2025: In the heart of Modena, just steps from the imposing Ghirlandina Tower, the city's undisputed symbol, lies the small trattoria Il Fantino, nestled in one of the city's semi-hidden alleys.
The location boasts retro furnishings, tables, and old-fashioned chairs, typical of 1940s taverns, but inexplicably irrelevant and poorly coordinated. Walls are entirely covered with prints depicting still lifes, vehicles, or abstract elements, which have little or nothing to do with the typical concept of historic trattorias. This doesn't affect the atmosphere, which nevertheless remains warm and pleasant.
The cuisine follows Emilian tradition—and more—and does not disappoint:
the fried gnocchi accompanied by delicious prosciutto are excellent;
the tortelloni with ricotta, butter, and sage are delicious; the pumpkin, butter, and sage ravioli are a cut above the rest; and dessert: miniature walnut and chocolate pastries (decent) round out the tour.
The portions are adequate.
The wine cellar is small and primarily focused on local wines. Two or three labels in total are dedicated to other regions.
Service: Informal, but slow and not always attentive to customers.
Bill: Fair. (€30.00 per person, excluding drinks)
Price/Percentage in line and reasonable.
Some elements lower the bar slightly (especially the ambiance, service, and wine cellar; despite the strict criteria, the site has been recommended by Gambero Rosso) but they do not detract from a rating that is largely positive.
A rustic, informal, and touristy place, but recommended for the quality of the food and fair prices.
4.0