Top Italian Trattoria Opens in a Boutique Hotel on Sila

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Discover Calabria's hidden gem, La Tavernetta al San Lorenzo si Alberga—a culinary haven blending tradition and innovation with locally-inspired dishes and fine wines.

The Renaissance of Calabria's Culinary Scene: A Journey Through La Tavernetta

In the heart of Calabria, where rugged mountains meet the Mediterranean, a culinary revolution has been quietly brewing. At its forefront stands La Tavernetta al San Lorenzo si Alberga, a gastronomic gem that has redefined regional dining while preserving its storied traditions. Here, the Lecce family has woven together history, innovation, and hospitality to craft an unforgettable experience.

From Vision to Legacy: The Lecce Family's Culinary Odyssey

The Lecce family's journey began in the early 1980s when Pietro Lecce, a visionary chef with an unmatched flair for creativity, and his wife Denise Miglietti opened La Tavernetta. Nestled in the picturesque town of Spezzano della Sila, this trattoria quickly became a cornerstone of Calabrian cuisine.

Over the decades, La Tavernetta evolved from a humble restaurant into a celebrated institution. Today, Pietro and Denise’s sons, Emanuele and Biagio, helm the establishment with equal passion. Emanuele orchestrates flavors in the kitchen, while Biagio curates an impeccable dining experience in the sala. Their latest endeavor—a full restyling of the restaurant—seamlessly marries contemporary elegance with historical authenticity. This transformation includes their new trattoria concept within San Lorenzo si Alberga, an adjacent hotel owned by the family.

"We wanted to honor our roots while embracing modernity," says Biagio Lecce. "Our goal is to create something timeless yet innovative—a true reflection of Calabria."

A Menu Rooted in Terroir: Celebrating Calabria's Bounty

At La Tavernetta al San Lorenzo si Alberga, every dish tells a story steeped in regional pride. The menu is a love letter to Calabria’s diverse landscapes—from the fertile plains to the lush forests of Sila.

Signature Dishes:

• Tortello di anatra: Duck tortelli paired with hints of anise and earthy beet greens.
• Sformato di patate della Sila: A delicate potato flan enriched with truffle and creamy fonduta.
• Ravioloni di porcini al tartufo: A time-honored favorite featuring porcini mushrooms and truffles, delighting patrons since 1988.

The culinary team places emphasis on seasonality, crafting soups like hearty bean stew or indulgent potato 'nduja cream topped with caciocavallo cheese. Proteins range from wild game to Podolica beef—an indigenous breed prized for its rich flavor—served alongside locally foraged vegetables and aromatic wild herbs.

The dedication to showcasing local ingredients extends to their curated selection of salumi and cheeses sourced from nearby producers. Even desserts pay homage to Calabrian tradition by incorporating regional dairy specialties.

Wine as Storytelling: An Internationally Revered Cellar

No fine dining experience is complete without exceptional wine pairings, and La Tavernetta delivers on all fronts with its meticulously curated wine cellar. Spanning both local gems and international rarities, their collection offers something for every palate.

• Calabrian Highlights: Labels featuring native varietals like Gaglioppo or Magliocco provide guests with a taste of Calabria’s viticultural heritage.
• Global Treasures: Hard-to-find vintages from Bordeaux or Barolo add depth and sophistication.

"Our cellar reflects our philosophy," says Emanuele Lecce. "We aim to celebrate our roots while embracing global influences."

Guests are guided through their wine journey by knowledgeable sommeliers who share anecdotes about each bottle’s origin and character. This personal touch enhances the immersive dining experience.

Tradition Meets Innovation: Redefining Hospitality

Beyond its exquisite cuisine, La Tavernetta excels in delivering warmth and authenticity through its hospitality—a hallmark of the Lecce family ethos. Whether it’s Pietro welcoming long-time patrons or Biagio ensuring every detail is flawless, diners are treated like family.

This philosophy extends into their recent expansion at San Lorenzo si Alberga. The revamped spaces blend rustic charm with modern sophistication—wood-beamed ceilings juxtaposed against sleek furnishings create an ambiance that feels both intimate and refined.

"Calabria has so much untapped potential," remarks Pietro Lecce. "Through food and hospitality, we aim to show people what this region truly has to offer."

Calabria's Hidden Gem: Why It Matters

La Tavernetta’s success is emblematic of a broader shift within Calabria—a region historically overlooked in Italy’s fine dining scene but now gaining recognition for its rich culinary heritage. By championing local ingredients, traditions, and artisanship, establishments like La Tavernetta are putting Calabria firmly on Italy’s gastronomic map.

For travelers seeking more than just a meal but rather an immersive cultural experience, Spezzano della Sila offers breathtaking landscapes that complement the culinary artistry found at La Tavernetta. From exploring ancient forests to savoring dishes infused with centuries-old traditions, visitors leave not only satisfied but deeply connected to this unique corner of Italy.

In celebrating both past and present, La Tavernetta al San Lorenzo si Alberga exemplifies how one family’s passion can elevate an entire region—proof that when tradition meets innovation under skilled hands, extraordinary things happen.

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"Dining here isn’t just about eating; it’s about storytelling," says Biagio Lecce with pride shining in his eyes. And indeed it is—a story written plate by plate amidst the enchanting backdrop of Calabria.

Photo by engin akyurt on Unsplash