Discovering Wood Cervinia: Amanda Eriksson’s Culinary Journey

If you're seeking a unique culinary experience, Amanda Eriksson’s Wood in Valtournenche is a must-visit! Her innovative blend of flavors is simply delightful.

The Journey of a Passionate Chef

Amanda Eriksson, a Swedish chef born in Lapland, first stepped onto Italian soil in 2004. At just 18 years old, she left behind her cold homeland where she mixed cocktails in a small-town nightclub. Answering the call of a friend who needed help at Chalet Étoile near the majestic Cervino mountain, she ventured into Italy’s vibrant culinary world.

Her beginnings weren’t easy; she candidly shared that her first year was quite challenging. However, an unforgettable summer at Phi Beach in Costa Smeralda sparked her creativity while bartending for VIPs. It was also during this formative period that she met her husband, sommelier Cristian Scalco. Together they embarked on an adventurous path leading to the establishment of their acclaimed restaurant, Wood Cervinia.

After ten years dedicated to excellence and innovation in cuisine, 2023 marked their triumphant milestone as they received their first Michelin star—a testament to their hard work and creativity.

A Fusion of Cultures on a Plate

At Wood Cervinia, you’re not just enjoying food; you’re savoring an artistic blend of three distinct cultures: Italian heritage that welcomes Amanda with open arms; Swedish roots reminding her of home; and Asian influences reflecting her adventurous spirit.

She passionately states that "Italian cuisine is the most complete cuisine in the world"—and it shows. Diners can opt for à la carte dishes or surrender to one of three meticulously curated tasting menus: vegetarian delights or options inspired by local traditions or pure creative imagination.

Each dish tells its own story but lets us peek into Amanda’s past—a highlight being the char-grilled reindeer tartare, reminiscent of her childhood when she assisted her father with hunting endeavors. Imagine young Amanda working side-by-side with him—"We called it ‘Reindeer.’ We couldn’t buy it; we hunted and prepared it together." What beautiful nostalgia!

Sustainability Meets Innovation

Wood emphasizes sustainability across every aspect—from sourcing fresh ingredients to incorporating preservation techniques common in Northern Europe.

• They create innovative pairings like smoked perch ravioli served in ponzu broth.
• Desserts are equally exciting; think rice cooked with sea buckthorn and Arctic raspberries kissed by cinnamon—all carefully selected to respect seasonal produce while enticing your palate.

The commitment to sustainability means diners can relish every bite knowing it’s crafted with care for both people and planet.

FAQ Section

What makes Wood Cervinia special?

Wood Cervinia stands out due to its exceptional blend of flavors drawn from Italian traditions fused with Swedish techniques and Asian inspirations—all presented through sustainable practices that honor each ingredient’s origin.

Is reservation recommended?

Yes! Due to its increasing popularity following the Michelin recognition,
it’s best to book your table well in advance for an unforgettable dining experience.

Photo by Louis Hansel on Unsplash