Il Torchio Antico In Lugo di vicenza

A white-haired man in a wine-colored jacket was standing next to the open gate. I assumed he was the caretaker or a ticket clerk. Then I saw him chatting with two other people to his left and concluded they were a small group of tourists like us. My wife and I entered. We had booked a tour of the Villa Godi-Malinverni and lunch at the Torchio Antico restaurant, located in what had once been the stables. I gave an almost imperceptible nod, which, to anyone waiting, could have been interpreted as a greeting. At the ticket office, a lady explained to us the route to take to visit the villa and then the two adjacent museums. The wide staircase was strewn with faded rose petals, remnants of a recent wedding celebration, and a cleaner was sweeping them away. All the rooms are furnished and all, except the service rooms, are splendidly frescoed. The large windows offer views of a gentle green landscape. The paleontological museum alone, with its fossils, is worth more than a visit, and the adjacent historical museum bears witness to the role the residence played during the Great War. As we left, it started to rain, so we headed straight to the restaurant. The ancient wine press, from which the restaurant takes its name, is immediately visible, imposing, to the left as you enter. Signora Lidia welcomed us and showed us to a table under the portico. Signora Lidia herself served us: the dishes were carefully presented and the food was truly well-prepared. The service was prompt, but not rushed, friendly, yet elegantly and professionally discreet, as befits. I again saw the gentleman in the wine-red jacket wandering among the tables: he wasn't a customer, I think he was helping serve. When it came time for the bill (which seemed absolutely reasonable and appropriate for the location and the quality of the food), I asked Signora Lidia if, by any chance, he was Mr. Andrea, with whom I had spoken on the phone. No, it was… Count Christian Malinverni, the villa's current owner! In conclusion, an excellent experience with a pleasant and informative exploration of architecture, art, history, and gastronomy, and a final lesson in the ability to be rather than appear.

I had lunch in this beautiful place with a group of 25 friends: we were served under the portico, tables set impeccably, delicious food. As a first course they brought fresh pasta flakes with pears, sautéed with gorgonzola and walnuts: a delight! The second course was a wonderful braised beef with Merlot di Breganze that melted in the mouth, with doré potatoes and vegetables. Finally, fruit salad with ice cream. Both white and red wines of excellent quality. Reasonable price, given the location and the quality of food and service. Definitely recommended. Just a note: when you book, give the right number of participants, to avoid unpleasant misunderstandings.

Yesterday with a group of university students and professors from UNIPD we had lunch at the Torchio Antico restaurant. Compliments to Dr. Malinverni and his staff, we ate divinely well, excellent service and spectacular location! Thank you so much! Alice Battaglia

Abbiamo pranzato benissimo in questo ristorante annesso alla Villa Godi Malinverni, ottimo cibo e servizio di qualità.

In attesa di visitare Villa Godi Malinverni ci siamo fermati in questo piacevole locale, accogliente, luminoso, elegante. Gustato eccellente piatto di radicchio e gamberoni in tempura, risotto mantecato e baccalà alla vicentina. Tutto ottimo, ben presentato, servizio cortese.