Ristretto In Modena

A restaurant in the center of Modena, nestled in a narrow street reminiscent of a narrow alley, with a splendid and unexpected view of the Ghirlandina. Inside, the elegant, contemporary, minimalist style dominates. The service is immediately attentive and courteous, as well as thoroughly professional. We begin with a small amuse bouche (we appreciated the gesture more than the dish itself, which we thought should have been avoided) followed by a delightful and tasty selection of breads, focaccias, and breadsticks. Among the starters, the scallops certainly stand out, which, combined with the vegetables, wafer, and sauces, deliver a rounded yet delicate shellfish flavor. The salmon marinated in beetroot juice is also exceptional, with tzatziki made with samphire and fennel, which unexpectedly prolongs the delightful sensation of the fish. The egg with panko and asparagus is perhaps more of an exercise in contemporary cuisine, less memorable but excellently executed. The octopus and potato lasagna with caper mayonnaise was excellent, giving the dish its unique character. The tagliatelle with wild boar ragù was also truly intense and flavorful, but in my opinion, it didn't quite reach the level of the pork saddle, which remained tender and juicy, with a fatty and comforting flavor that was never cloying. The crispy snow peas were a fitting accompaniment. The lamb tagliata is recommended for those who don't appreciate the irony of lamb, which I find a bit too delicate, but definitely delicious. The zuppa inglese and crème brûlée were also good, as was the pumpkin ice cream. For four of us, for two courses plus dessert each, including a bottle of wine, water, coffee, and service charge, we spent €54—well worth it!

We had a very nice dinner. The interior is very well-kept. We sat in the second room where no one was present, so we could chat without having to shout since the first room was full. On the wall, there were lots of funny pictures, all egg-based. Fast and precise service. Very good food; we had two appetizers, two first courses, and one dessert. All very good. The outdoor seating is certainly very nice in the summer, but if there's a lot of people passing by, given the narrowness of the alley, it's not the most comfortable, at least not for a meal. For an aperitif, they're definitely the best places. Highly recommended for romantic dinners.

Although I had been to Modena several times, I had never tried this place until I read an article that said some of the cooks from Osteria Francescana would come here after work. I know why. Massimo is a wonderful host and the food is excellent. I have been here several times now, and have always enjoyed the food and the hospitality. Six months ago, I ate here three time during my visit to Modena. One of those times was with my daughter. When I visited this time, Massimo asked me about her. It's the little things... Try this place, the food and the hospitality are worth it.

A charming and intimate restaurant in the city center, the staff is particularly friendly and helpful. The main course I ordered wasn't as satisfying as I would have liked, but the tortellini were excellent.

An excellent experience during the Philosophy Festival weekend. We went on Sunday for lunch. The restaurant is located in a beautiful alley overlooking the Ghirlandina Tower. We had a portion of gnocco fritto with culaccia, two excellent tortellini with parmesan cream, and two glasses of excellent Pinot Noir recommended by the sommelier. The only downside, but one that didn't affect our overall rating, was the delivery time. We waited over half an hour; they probably hadn't calculated the flow of diners; the restaurant was packed inside and out. Despite all this, the food and service were excellent! We highly recommend it!

We had a great dinner here. Definitely recommend to others. I had the pork cheeks and they were fantastic.

Hidden up a narrow street this restaurant is well worth looking for. Great service and food, with the help of our cheery waiter we soon selected our dishes and accompanying wine. The food was fabulous and the presentation was top notch. I would certainly visit this one again.

Stumbled on this little gem in Modena, it was close to where we were staying. The food was outstanding, every bite, we both had the tortellini in pana & parmigiana, I had the Pranzetto, so tasty, even for a salad. It was the meal I had been searching for for 2 weeks.

Great lunch, lovingly prepared with top ingredients. Very nice waiter who gave good recommendations. The tartare di manzo (handcut) was beautiful, pickled red onion - ansjovis and mustard to spice it gave great tasting sensation. Scallops nice as well. Then came beautiful lamb for my husband who loved it. I had the spaghettone which was a fantastic dish, raw red shrimp tartare on spaghetti was a revelation. Accompanied by a nice bottle of red wine advised by the waiter. And the dolci were also great. We sat outside as weather was nice, but inside looks great as well! Thanks for a memorable lunch guys!!

Very well-kept place. Truly excellent food. I'll definitely be back to eat there 🌸✨