A Detailed Account of All Massimo Bottura's Eateries in Modena
Massimo Bottura's Sustainable Dining Venture, Il Gatto Verde, Opens in Modena
Massimo Bottura, the renowned Italian chef, has expanded his culinary empire with the opening of Il Gatto Verde, a sustainable dining establishment in Modena, Italy. The restaurant, located near the Acetaia Maria Luigia, a space housing 1,400 barrels of traditional Modena balsamic vinegar, officially opened its doors on September 20, 2024 [1].
Il Gatto Verde aims to be one of the world's most eco-friendly restaurants, with its interiors incorporating natural materials, green and earthy tones, and contemporary art pieces [2]. Jessica Rosval leads the kitchen at Il Gatto Verde, offering a menu that fuses local traditions with international flair. The dining experience centers around fire as a key element, with many dishes finished over open flame to enhance flavors [3].
Signature dishes at Il Gatto Verde include Tortellino gratinato al forno with 36-month Parmigiano cream and Montreal-style lamb, representing the Canadian origins of chef Jessica Rosval, cooked on a spit with spices and pear purée [3]. The restaurant offers a cozy indoor dining room alongside a lush outdoor area, with attentive and friendly service [3].
Il Gatto Verde has been awarded one Michelin star for its high-quality cuisine, making it a destination worth visiting [3][4]. The restaurant's sustainable approach and commitment to quality within the Emilia-Romagna region have also garnered recognition [3][4].
Meanwhile, Bottura's other establishment in Modena, Il Cavallino, has undergone a transformation under his guidance. Situated opposite Ferrari's historic manufacturing plant in Maranello, Il Cavallino blends its past with modern design and cuisine [5]. The interiors of Il Cavallino, designed by India Mahdavi, pay homage to the Ferrari brand while the menu celebrates Italian culinary traditions with a modern twist [2].
Il Cavallino offers a hearty celebration of Emilian tradition with a modern twist, featuring dishes that tell the story of the region's rich culinary heritage [6]. Chef Riccardo Forapani, a long-time veteran of Bottura's team at Osteria Francescana, oversees the kitchen at Il Cavallino [7].
The Acetaia Maria Luigia, where Il Gatto Verde is located, features installations by renowned artists such as Ingo Mauer, Kehinde Wiley, and Olafur Eliasson [8]. Mike Bidlo's works, including pieces like "Not Pollock," "Not Stella," and "Not Warhol," are also displayed at the Acetaia and the restaurant, adding a layer of intellectual engagement [8].
Bottura's establishments in Modena offer unique experiences that explore his culinary philosophy, making them essential stops in the heart of Italy. Whether it's the sustainable dining at Il Gatto Verde or the fusion of food and automotive culture at Il Cavallino, Bottura's influence can be felt in various collaborative projects and initiatives in Modena and beyond [1].
[1] Modena Today [2] Modena Life [3] Modena Food Guide [4] Michelin Guide [5] Autoblog [6] Eater [7] Modena Chefs [8] Artnet News
The opening of Il Gatto Verde, a sustainable dining venture by Massimo Bottura, marks a significant expansion in food-and-drink entertainment, offering a blend of local traditions and international flair. Furthermore, the celebrity chef's commitment to eco-friendliness and sustainable practices in cooking also sets a prominent example in lifestyle trends, elevating the experience beyond mere dining.
