Fontanaviva italian food Giuseppe Jijios — Restaurant in Maharashtra

Tucked away inside a quiet bungalow, Fontanaviva isn’t your regular pizza place — and that’s exactly what makes it special. Run single-handedly by Chef Jijo, an Italian gentleman with a love for honest food and a no-nonsense attitude, this place is minimal, homely, and absolutely charming in its own way. Don’t go expecting fancy interiors — the “restaurant” is actually Jijo’s living room with just three tables. But once you step in, you’ll realize that the simplicity is part of the charm. It’s the kind of place that feels like a secret — and one you’re glad to be in on. We tried our all-time favourite Margherita pizza, a zucchini white sauce pasta, and ended the meal with a classic tiramisu. Every bite tasted genuinely Italian — no frills, no shortcuts, just honest ingredients cooked right.

The pizza had a thin, crisp crust with tomato sauce spread beautifully to the edges (a personal favourite detail!). The taste was pure margherita — and then we added a dollop of basil pesto that Chef Jijo gave us, which took it to a whole new level. Pure joy.

The pasta was a white sauce base — but not the soupy kind you find elsewhere. The sauce just coated the pasta, letting the parmesan, cream, and parsley do their job without being overpowering. You get to choose your pasta type too — we went with spaghetti, cooked perfectly al dente.

For dessert, we asked for tiramisu without alcohol, to which Jijo reluctantly agreed — not before teasing us a little! He insists that tiramisu is meant to be savoured with a hint of martini or rum for that signature aroma. Fair point, Chef — we’ll take your word next time.

What really stood out was Jijo himself — warm, a little grumpy in the most endearing way, and incredibly passionate. He does everything on his own — from taking calls and cooking to cleaning and serving. We even overheard him correcting a nearby table for asking for ketchup with their pizza (“Pizza is never eaten with ketchup!” he declared in his thick Italian accent 😄). And don’t expect menu suggestions — he’ll tell you straight up: “How can I know what you like?”

Some dishes like ravioli, lasagna, croissants, and cakes need to be pre-ordered hours or a day in advance. We’re already planning to return for that mushroom-stuffed ravioli he mentioned! In short — if you’re used to commercial pizza chains, this might not be your cup of tea. But if you love real, soulful food with a side of personality, Fontanaviva is worth every bite (and moment). We’re already craving that...

Edit: We were loud, but not rowdy. We kept to ourselves, while your dog was roaming around the table making it unhygienic for all.

You insulted my friends, fed the cake we gave to you to your dog.

Please elaborate on what did we do to offend you? My friend's bike was stuck because you are unable to get your parking space leveled, it was filled with construction material when we had visited.

It was a waste planning the birthday celebration at your place, we wasted 15k for nothing.

Updated review: RUDE CHEF. RUINED A BIRTHDAY. NEVER AGAIN.

Visited on 5th April 2025 to celebrate a birthday — and I deeply regret choosing this place. The chef here is not just rude, he’s downright disrespectful.

One of us asked how a dish was made — out of curiosity, politely. Instead of answering like a normal human being, the chef insulted my friend’s MOTHER. Completely uncalled for.

Later, we asked which ravioli was veg and which was non-veg. Simple question. The chef storms out and snaps, “Can’t you see?” — no, we can't, genius, because you didn’t bother labelling or describing anything.

And here's the final slap in the face — we included him in the celebration and even offered a slice of cake. Instead of a basic thank you, he turned his nose up and fed it to his dog. That’s the level of arrogance you’re dealing with here.

Absolutely pathetic behaviour. This place is not just unwelcoming — it’s offensive. If you want your special day ruined by an egoistic, bitter chef with no manners — go ahead. Otherwise, stay far away. ZERO stars if I could.

This is my previous review, should be somewhere in November or December. Chef Jijo knows how to elevate a normal dinner to an exotic and indulgent dinner. Special mention of the Disco Volante pizza, as all my friends loved it.

Thank you chef Jijo, for the excellent fine...

Sooo this was in my bucket list but honestly this isn't for everyone. Insta pe dekhke mat aao, kyuki not everything is rosy. Some of the points I observed-

Location is very far off. I had to keep rickshaw at bay because it was lonely and scary. I wouldn't wish anyone to go there at night except if they've got their own vehicle.

Guiseppe the chef was decentish. A bit grumpy and talkative but lacks warmness. He did have a word or two but honestly i didn't enjoy the conversation. Always had a negative vibe.

His dog is very cute and active, if anyone's afraid of dogs they should be made aware. The setup is very basic and tables, chairs are not much sturdy.

Now coming to the food- pasta and tiramisuu were the highlights. Tiramisu was the best, however pasta had too much mushrooms. The mushrooms were very salty and the sauce was also not cheesy. Pasta were cooked al-dente, which can be a bit katcha for general audiences.

Pizza was not good. The pizza was very basic, The base was a bit kacha and the vegetables on top were very salty. Cheese was also decentish. Expected a lot more.

Overall bill came around 2500, which is quite expensive. Even though he might say they were imported ingredients, the price doesn't make much sense...

See overall it's not worth going outskirts especially wouldn't suggest someone to go at Night.

I can understand guiseeppe has faced loads of problems in his life, closing off his baner restaurant, getting peasant offer from hyatt, but warmness is regarded during hospitality.

I wish him the best but I was a bit disappointed after lunch. I would always wish him to start a new venture, but I feel his attitude is a big...