Villa Fontana Relais Suite & Spa

Atmosphere: Guests describe the property as a peaceful and romantic boutique retreat, ideal for special occasions like anniversaries, birthdays, or short getaways.

Our Sunday lunch at Villa Fontana felt like being welcomed into a refined, well-oiled machine — the kind where service is as smooth as the wine and every detail is noticed. From the moment we sat down, the staff’s attentiveness stood out. Something as simple as never letting the water glasses dip below half-full was handled with quiet efficiency, setting a confident tone for the afternoon. The meal began with a generous array of amuse-bouche, followed by soft, fresh bread and focaccia — a welcome surprise in Italy, where bread can sometimes lean toward the dry side. Here, it was everything bread should be: soft, moist, and inviting. For my starter, I chose the tartare — tasty and well-seasoned, though I’d have loved the meat to be just a touch smoother, with slightly less fat. My fiancé’s cold shrimp pasta looked like summer on a plate — fresh and light — but could have used a sprinkle more salt and perhaps a pop of fresh herbs to lift the flavors. We began our lunch outdoors, but for the second course the team discreetly whisked us inside to a table in the cool embrace of air conditioning — thoughtful, and very welcome on a warm afternoon. The pasta course was where things really shone: my gnocchi with rabbit ragù was rich, comforting, and absolutely spot-on in texture. My fiancé’s squid dish was technically flawless, tender to perfection — though, like a few dishes of the day, it could have been pushed just a little further in seasoning or spice to really sing. A sweet bonus: we finished with an extra chocolate praline, the kind of small, unexpected gesture that leaves a lasting impression. In style, presentation, cleanliness, and service, Villa Fontana easily plays in the Michelin league. The technical execution is precise, the creativity is there, and the plating is consistently elegant. If the kitchen dared to be just a bit bolder with seasoning and contrast — adding that extra “wow” factor — it could transform an already excellent Sunday lunch into a truly unforgettable one.

Beauty and the Feast Amazing and beautiful place. Nestled next to vineyards. There is a gorgeous spa amid the historical property. Service was wonderful and the restaurant was Michelin-star worthy. Would highly recommend this place.