Vitis Lounge Winery — Restaurant in Comunità Alto Garda e Ledro

I had the pleasure of finally having dinner at VITIS (it's been a few months since they opened in Villa Italia ((which on its own is a splendid property)). I have been wanting to go, but did not yet have the occasion. I had high expectations and was not disappointed. Actually, they were exceeded! A caveat: they call their plates "tapas" which might connote something much more rustic. I assure you these dishes are not, but the portion sizes are in line with the concept. Also, I am normally not that interested anymore in gourmet-type food because I used to experience a lot of that with my work, but this place is different and I would consider going back. The food is gorgeous to look at, light, creative and clearly each recipe and offering has been carefully studied (and well-executed). The atmosphere is inviting--well lit, squeaky clean, full of art, color and whimsy, but zero pretension. It's rare to find a combination of such high quality food and presentation with such a lovely but COMFORTABLE/RELAXED setting. Even the chairs feel good on your back and legs when you first sit on them, let alone the cozy loveseats and armchairs near the bar area. The service is attentive and professional without being the least bit stiff or formal (their uniform consists of polo shirts). I tasted six dishes and would recommend them all. My favorites, though, were the Sardine, the Suckling Pig, the Watermelon 'Gazpacho,' and the Poached Egg with Morels... all very different, exquisitely plated; portions were perfect for a tasting/tapas-like experience. For the quality, I'd say value is very very high. You will not find prices like these anywhere, especially given the inflation and challenges in the industry right now. If you are debating whether to go, just do it. It does not have to be a momentous occasion because you can simply relax and enjoy. Do check out the little cantina below, too. It's cozy and beautifully maintained. I did not drink lots of wine but my understanding is they have labels you cannot find elsewhere. Worth...

Astonishing and deeply touching! If you love clear tastes and a straight idea in food, by all means go and try their nine-course menu! I know I've used two exclamation marks already, and for a good reason: At a (very) young age the owner is daring enough to offer this bold idea in a traditional Italian environment (a bit like Massimo) and the chef excellently and expertly executes the concept.

The nine courses offer only local produce and a dash of Asia (as an idea and cooking style). While the courses will vary according to the seasons (hence you'll have different dishes), I dare say you'll have a great experience as all nine dishes were very thoughtfully planned and expertly cooked. Among the dishes I'd like to highlight (bear in mind that all were great) were: a delicate sheep tartar in a small taco, a fish tartar in a deliciously tart celery/green apple sauce and with finely fermented radishes, densely smooth local mushrooms in a crispy tempura melting in your mouth, a tender and dense deer with fermented blueberries, and a meringue paired with a foamy creme that left you feeling like you'd just walked through a tasty cloud of cotton candy.

Chapeau! This is one of the best menus we've ever had and it easily beats Tom Kerridge's pub experience! (Sorry, Tom. You'll remain one of my cooking heroes, no worries.) So, go there and enjoy! And thank you so very much for the experience - we had a...

Beautiful dinner at Vitis last night! While in Riva del Garda visiting family, this new restaurant came highly recommended and I’m so glad we tried it out.

We had a beautiful 7 part dinner with wine pairing. Everything from the beautiful interior decor, to the kind staff and owners (who speak English!), to the amazing food - it was all perfect. I was a little worried that some of the food might be too fancy for me, but rest assured, presentation is just as lovely as the flavors. We left full, happy and excited to come back again before leaving Italy. If you can come on a nice day to sit in the patio, it...