Antica Trattoria Cervetta — Restaurant in Modena

I visited Italy (Nov-Dec/23) for an academic conference and a bit of a gastronomic adventure. This restaurant is located on a hidden laneway (via Cervetta) in the old section Modena. So, it must be a destination spot. I 'discovered' it thru a Google search for best restaurants in the vicinity and it turned out to be next door to my hotel.

After 9 days of sampling foods in Modena, Parma, Verona, Sirmione, Bardolino, and Bologna, the Antica Trattoria Cervetta ('ATC') tied with one other for MY MOST ENJOYABLE & DELIGHTFUL FOOD EXPERIENCE !! And, I have the host, Stefano, to thank b/c I arrived late (on my last night in Modena) without a reservation ... but he made room for me. And, am I glad he did.

For the 'come primo' I had the Tagliatelle al Ragù. The meat sauce was distinctive and I had a conversation with Stefano about it. After confirming with il cuoco, he explained the reason and also why it is not called 'Bolognese', as many North Americans expect. But, alas, I cannot disclose the reason as it is the restaurant's (or the chef's) IP. Suffice it to say ... try it - you are unlikely to be disappointed.

Originally, I had planned to eat 'lighter' (in Italy? ... right). But, I was was so delighted with the Tagliatelle, that I had to try more. I needed to balance the evening meal with some vegetables So, for the 'come secondo', I indulged in the Radicchio Al Forno. It was heated perfectly with just the right amount of drizzled XVOO and a healthy sprinkling of Parmesan cheese. The bitterness was a nice contrast to the sweetness of the Tagliatelle and paired nicely with the vino rosso. I do recommend they serve it with a steak knife.

Finally, for the 'come dolce', I delighted in ATC's Mascarpone con cioccolate e amaretti e espresso macchiato. The dessert also includes some cake crumbles which complement the smooth, velvety Mascarpone perfectly.

I will add photos later.

Grazie mille, Stefano, for letting me indulge in ATC's...

We recently had a great meal at this restaurant, and their ribs are absolutely amazing! They cook them for over 72 hours, and they turn out super tender, practically melting in your mouth. The seasoning is just right, adding a lot of flavor. I highly recommend trying their ribs.

We also ordered some ravioli and another pasta dish with ragu and bietole, and they were really tasty too.

To go with our meal, we ordered two glasses of Lambrusco, and it was really nice. The wine had a pleasant taste and went well with our food.

The only downside is that the restaurant's dining area is a bit tight, so it can feel a little crowded and the air might not circulate well. Due to limited space it is not easy for family with...

Modena is known for having some of the best restaurants and food in the WORLD! A friend brought us to this spot for a late dinner and it was probably the best meal of my entire life. If you are ever lucky enough to make it here I beg you to try the steak covered in balsamic vinegar. At first it did not sound appealing at all, but my friend guaranteed me that I would like it or he would buy me any other meal after that. This place is very reasonably priced since we each had 4 course meal and drank like unemployed union steel workers and our bill was approximately $65 US each. This place has the best food I have ever eaten in my life. Period. It would be worth the 20 hours of travel to Italy merely to eat here and...