Osteria Francescana In Modena

Three Michelin stars, world-class aspirations – and a luncheon brimming with high expectations. Osteria Francescana promises Mediterranean-influenced, internationally inspired Italian cuisine. Unfortunately, the dishes largely lacked the "sapori d'Italia" – the familiar flavors of basil, garlic, rosemary, and olive oil. The concept, which Bottura himself describes so passionately, and the dining experience didn't quite align this time. All the more impressive, however, was the service: exceptionally courteous, attentive, and absolutely top-notch – simply perfect. A team that lives up to the restaurant's reputation in every respect.

Excellence is not described, excellence is tasted.

A truly excellent venue. Extraordinary food (especially the seafood!), extremely friendly service, impeccable customer service, and an excellent wine selection. Absolutely guaranteed! Congratulations!

One of those more than five-star dining experiences. The service was highly professional, creating a welcoming atmosphere, and the ambiance was elegant and sophisticated. The menu was well-thought-out, and the wine was excellent. Everything about the food was superb, though no single dish stood out as particularly outstanding. I definitely want to return to try some of the signature dishes à la carte. I appreciated that these weren't offered as an extra charge on top of the set menu, as is often the case elsewhere, but rather that the menu itself was coherent and seasonal, as described.

Do yourself a favor and experience a three star Michelin restaurant once in your lifetime. Unbelievable...... the artistry that comes with the food. It will access deep parts of your brain for the "food" area that us commoners didn't even know existed.

An experience that requires a certain gastronomic sensibility to be fully understood. The service was impeccable. The atmosphere is intimate, although the decor (despite the interesting works of art) was too neutral for my taste. The cuisine is extremely conceptual and the preparations are highly refined, despite many ingredients being typical of the peasant tradition. Although I'm not an expert in the field, I truly enjoyed the experience. To fully appreciate it, I consider the beverage pairing essential; thanks to it, some dishes were sublime (pasta and beans with chestnut beer, bread and water with gentian). I was impressed by: La Contadina (what a flavor for such an under-loved vegetable!), the refined use of beans in pasta and beans, jazz duck... incredible (the panettone, the duck katsuobushi), the honey dessert, and the "reconstruction" of the pomegranate. A highly renowned restaurant, where mental stimulation goes hand in hand with flavor.

A necessary premise: it's clear that we're talking about a three-Michelin-star restaurant, for years the best in the world. If I had to judge by the common areas, I'd definitely give it 5 stars for everything or more... Instead, I'll base my rating on the other Michelin-starred restaurants I've dined at. Location: Beautiful and elegant, a bit anonymous from the outside, and honestly, it could be made more welcoming. The pest-rejector behind the table is a no-no. Service: I expected better. Friends had praised the service at Osteria Francescana, but I have several complaints. Finding the entire staff lined up at the entrance is intimidating, as is being scrutinized for your tattoos in 2026. We were NEVER served at the same time. We were "catechized" on our choice of an Orange, which we had deliberately chosen (not having a clear idea of ​​what to expect from the menu since the names of the dishes are not self-explanatory) when, during the wine tasting, they themselves suggested the same bottle. Finally, the guys high-fiving each other as they pass each other doesn't seem Michelin-starred to me. (I dare say that despite trying, I believe perfect service doesn't exist and that perception is entirely subjective, because what pleases one person might displease another.) Food: Everything was excellent; every dish is an edible work of art. Every bite tells a story, evokes an emotion, and creates an indelible memory. If I had to find a criticism of this tasting experience (late 2025), only three out of ten dishes truly gave you goosebumps and gave you that famous "WOW" effect you expect from Bottura...

It's the place you'd expect! Refined, sophisticated cuisine with surprising pairings! The rooms are elegant, and the selection of artworks adorning the walls is a welcome addition. It's an experience for almost all the senses. The staff is professional, friendly, and even welcoming. All the accolades are well deserved.

We waited a very long time for a table at Osteria Francescana and traveled to Modena specifically for this reservation. Our expectations were very high; after all, one can usually rely on Michelin and similar guides. However, that evening our disappointment was just as great as the expectations we had. With the exception of two courses, the entire menu was a complete letdown. One highlight, however, was the presentation; each course looked like a work of art. While this delighted the eye, it did not live up to the palate. The service was okay, but nothing special. Of the three-Michelin-starred restaurants we visited, this was the worst.

I went to Francescana a few years ago. Being from Modena, I couldn't help but try number 1. Everything was perfect and impeccable. My only suggestion would be to make the restaurant interior more unique.