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Cercemaggiore

Contrasto, located in the picturesque village of Cercemaggiore, offers a culinary experience that blends traditional Molise flavors with modern techniques. The restaurant is helmed by Chef Lucio Testa, who has returned to his native village to open this establishment in a former sheepfold at an altitude of 937 meters. The ambiance is elegant and intimate, featuring exposed beams and contemporary-style lamps. The menu showcases reinterpretations of traditional recipes, combining local and seasonal ingredients with culinary techniques acquired from Chef Testa's time in France. Dishes like the 'Millemetri' tasting menu, consisting of eight courses that narrate the region's culinary heritage, and the 'Anatra Mulard' menu, highlighting the rich flavors of duck, are highly recommended. Patrons frequently commend the restaurant for its impeccable service, with detailed explanations of each dish enhancing the dining experience. The wine list is diverse, featuring both local and international selections, with a focus on natural wines. Overall, Contrasto offers a unique and memorable dining experience that artfully marries tradition with innovation.

Discover Contrasto: Molise's Culinary Gem in Cercemaggiore 

Nestled in the picturesque Italian village of Cercemaggiore, Contrasto offers a dining experience that masterfully blends the vibrant traditions of Molise cuisine with refined modern techniques. Under the expert guidance of Chef Lucio Testa, who returned to his native village to transform a former sheepfold perched at 937 meters altitude into an elegant restaurant, Contrasto has become a must-visit for food lovers seeking innovation rooted in local heritage.

A journey through local flavors and modern mastery

Contrasto’s menu is a curated selection of dishes that reinterpret classic Molise recipes with fresh, seasonal ingredients and culinary techniques inspired by Chef Testa's experience in French kitchens. The acclaimed "Millemetri" tasting menu, featuring eight courses, offers a delicious narrative of the region’s rich culinary heritage, including delicacies like quail, tripe, and unique pasta preparations with raisins. Another highlight is the "Anatra Mulard" menu, showcasing rich, flavorful duck dishes that reflect the chef’s passion and creativity.

An unforgettable ambiance and impeccable service

Step inside Contrasto and you are greeted by an ambiance that perfectly balances rustic Molise charm with contemporary elegance. Exposed wooden beams, soft lighting from modern lamps, and carefully chosen decor create a warm, intimate setting ideal for savoring every bite. The attentive service, often praised for its white-glove finesse, includes personal table visits from Chef Testa himself, who shares the unique stories behind each dish, enriching your culinary journey.

 Yes, pets are warmly welcomed at Contrasto, so you can enjoy your meal with your furry companions.

 Yes, the menu includes thoughtful vegetarian choices, ensuring all guests find delightful dishes to enjoy.

What are the operating hours of Contrasto?

 Contrasto is open Wednesday through Sunday for both lunch and dinner services, closed on Mondays and Tuesdays.

 Yes, reservations are welcomed and recommended. You can book by phone for a seamless experience.

 Yes, convenient free parking options include both a parking lot and street parking nearby.

Community sentiment and why Contrasto stands out

The community sentiment towards Contrasto is overwhelmingly positive, with guests consistently praising the restaurant’s innovative fusion of traditional Molise flavors and high-end culinary craftsmanship. Reviews highlight the exceptional ingredient quality, meticulous plating, and the restaurant’s unique ambiance enhanced by attentive white-glove service. Many diners describe their meals as unforgettable journeys through local culture, elevated by Chef Testa’s storytelling and culinary mastery. Contrasto is recognized not just as a restaurant, but as a destination that beautifully captures the essence of Molise’s gastronomic soul.

Europe

Italy

Nestled in the picturesque village of Cercemaggiore, Italy, Contrasto is a culinary gem that beautifully marries traditional Molise flavors with modern French techniques. The restaurant, located at Via Roma, 55, is not just a place to eat; it’s an immersive experience that tantalizes the senses. With its stunning decor featuring exposed brick and timber finishes, the ambiance is both refined and inviting, making it a perfect spot for food lovers and travelers alike.

At Contrasto, the menu is a carefully curated journey through the flavors of Molise, featuring standout dishes like the Millemetri tasting menu. This exquisite selection includes seven meticulously crafted courses, showcasing local ingredients in innovative ways. Highlights include tender quail paired with a rich, savory sauce and spaghetti infused with raisins, offering a delightful balance of sweet and savory. Each dish is presented with artistic flair, making every bite a feast for the eyes as well as the palate.

The dining experience is elevated by the impeccable service, where waitstaff dressed in white gloves attend to guests with a level of professionalism rarely seen in the region. A unique touch is the chef’s personal visit to each table, sharing the stories behind the dishes and the inspiration drawn from local traditions. This connection to the culinary heritage of Molise adds a personal touch that enhances the overall dining experience.

Conveniently located in the heart of Cercemaggiore, Contrasto is surrounded by the stunning landscapes of the Molise region. Visitors can explore nearby attractions such as the ancient ruins of Sepino and the breathtaking views of the Matese Mountains. This makes it an ideal stop for those looking to combine a culinary adventure with cultural exploration.

Contrasto is renowned for its innovative tasting menus that blend traditional Molise cuisine with modern French techniques, offering a unique dining experience.

The combination of exquisite food, exceptional service, and a charming atmosphere makes Contrasto a must-visit destination for food enthusiasts.

Visitors can explore the nearby ancient ruins of Sepino and enjoy the scenic beauty of the Matese Mountains, making it a perfect blend of culture and nature.

Whether you are a local or a traveler, make sure to experience the culinary artistry at Contrasto. With its unique blend of flavors, exceptional service, and breathtaking surroundings, it promises a dining experience that you will cherish. Book your table today and embark on a gastronomic journey that celebrates the rich heritage of Molise.

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUNCaGJEMlZ3EAE&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJ7ShgIZcNOhMREdgNirEw-18/reviews/ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUNCaGJEMlZ3EAE

This restaurant is truly exceptional! I loved the attention to details starting from the decor, the table set up and the food presentation. The exposed brick and wood are perfectly matched with unique and modern choices for the lamps and decorations on the table to make it for a high-end, but relaxing, dining experience. The service is probably something that this region has rarely seen before. The servers have white gloves and the chef comes table side to explain the unique history and concept of every dish. We chose a tasting menu that offered a taste of the French cuisine perfectly mixed with local flavor and tradition. This is a must try if you are in Molise!

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSURWMEpTUmNnEAE&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJ7ShgIZcNOhMREdgNirEw-18/reviews/ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSURWMEpTUmNnEAE

One of the best meals I have ever eaten in Molise, in fact in Italy. World class cuisine with many tasting plates and traditional Molise food, reimagined for a new generation. We had the the Millemetri tasting menu, with 7 dishes. Wow! Before the actual meal began, we were served 5 antipasti bites, including mushrooms made of eggplant and genovese cream and caper berries with apple cider vinegar. The tasting menu was a delicious journey through Molise, with Quail, spaghetti with raisins, tripe, the yummiest carrot cake I’ve ever had, and so much more! I love the modern, simple decor with gorgeous views of the mountains, and the staff was exquisite. Really can’t say enough great things about Contrasto!

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUNMZ3ZIOEVBEAE&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJ7ShgIZcNOhMREdgNirEw-18/reviews/ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUNMZ3ZIOEVBEAE

Possibly the best food experience in the region, and worth all the money (€60/65 for the tasting menus). Impeccable service and a gorgeous, refined location.

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUR1NDg2QVNnEAE&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJ7ShgIZcNOhMREdgNirEw-18/reviews/ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUR1NDg2QVNnEAE

This restaurant is an absolute jem, situated in the most picturesque village of Cercemaggiore in Molise.
The restaurant itself is a very skillfully renovated old house which was built attached to a rock formation. The exposed rocks, the timber finish and the soft lights create an ambience second to none.
The chef is exceptional and the service at the table is excellent. The food presentation is all about attention to details.
We chose a degustation menu, of which every course was of the highest quality and flavour.
Prices was better than appropriate to the context.
Congratulations chef Lucio Testa, we wish you all the best, you deserve every recognition that your industry can offer.

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUN2OTVQUy1RRRAB&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJ7ShgIZcNOhMREdgNirEw-18/reviews/ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUN2OTVQUy1RRRAB

Ci sono stato per la seconda volta dopo una prima visita nel 2023. Un posto di altissimo livello sotto ogni punto di vista. Lo chef è disponibile, gentile e preparato anche nelle risposte a diverse domande che gli ho posto... nei piatti c'è la sua impronta così come si sente il territorio, portato a livelli molto alti. Un viaggio che si deve fare, se ci si vuole veramente bene. Super consigliato.

I was there for the second time after a first visit in 2023. A place of the highest standard from every point of view. The chef is helpful, kind and prepared even in the answers to various questions I asked him... his imprint is in the dishes as well as the territory, brought to very high levels. A journey that you must take if you truly love yourself. Super recommended.

Experience Fine Dining at Contrasto in Cercemaggiore, Molise

Contrasto was established by Chef Lucio Testa in his hometown of Cercemaggiore, Molise, Italy. After extensive training at ALMA and experience in renowned Italian and French kitchens, Chef Testa returned to his roots to open this restaurant in a former sheepfold at an altitude of 937 meters. The restaurant is known for its innovative approach to traditional Molise cuisine, blending local ingredients with modern techniques.

A rich culinary journey at Contrasto in Cercemaggiore, Molise, Italy.

Nestled in the picturesque village of Cercemaggiore within the Molise region of Italy, Contrasto is a culinary beacon founded by the esteemed Chef Lucio Testa. Established in 2019, this exquisite restaurant emerged from Chef Testa's deep passion for his hometown and his dedication to elevating traditional Molise cuisine through a modern lens. The venue itself is a skillfully renovated former sheepfold perched at an impressive altitude of 937 meters, creating an atmosphere that perfectly balances rustic charm and contemporary elegance.

Chef Lucio Testa honed his culinary expertise at the prestigious ALMA International School of Italian Cuisine and through extensive experience in celebrated Italian and French kitchens. His return to Cercemaggiore marked the beginning of a gastronomic adventure that marries local Molise ingredients with refined, contemporary techniques. This innovative approach has drawn both locals and international visitors, eager to experience a unique fusion of tradition and modernity on their plates.

Contrasto was founded by Chef Lucio Testa in his hometown of Cercemaggiore, establishing a new standard for fine dining in Molise.

Contrasto earned recognition in the prestigious Michelin Guide, highlighting its creative culinary excellence and innovative use of regional flavors.

The restaurant's acclaim is built on meticulous attention to detail, from the striking blend of exposed brick and timber interiors to the sophisticated presentation of every dish served. Contrasto has become a must-visit destination for travelers and food enthusiasts seeking an authentic taste of Molise reinterpreted with a world-class culinary vision. Each dining experience is enhanced by exceptional service, including personalized explanations from Chef Testa himself, ensuring guests appreciate the rich history and innovation behind each creation.

Now firmly established, Contrasto continues to push the boundaries of regional Molise cuisine while maintaining a warm and inviting atmosphere. Located on Via Roma in Cercemaggiore, the restaurant offers stunning mountain views that complement its sophisticated yet welcoming decor. Whether indulging in a meticulous tasting menu or savoring traditional dishes with a creative twist, visitors can expect an unforgettable culinary journey that honors the heritage and natural bounty of Molise.

Via Roma, 55, Cercemaggiore, Molise, Italy, at an altitude of 937 meters.

Innovative Molise dishes blending local tradition with French culinary techniques.

Featured in the Michelin Guide in 2025 for outstanding creative cuisine.

Il ristorante Contrasto offre una cucina che fonde tradizione e innovazione, utilizzando ingredienti locali e stagionali per creare piatti unici e raffinati.

Funghi, carciofo e radici

Tra il lago e il fiume, pesci d’acqua dolce ed erbe

Riso in bianco, asparagi e primo sale

Ziti, cavolfiore e alici

Gnocchi di patate cotte sotto la cenere, spugnole, lumache e burro bianco

Il baccalà

Il maiale in 5 portate

Piccione, cardamomo scalogno e carote (per due persone)

Selezione di formaggi

Riso al latte, limone e alloro

Brioche, yogurt di capra e conserve

Grano, cannella e caramello

Menu del Ristorante Contrasto

At the heart of Cercemaggiore, Contrasto presents a sublime culinary journey where tradition meets innovation through locally sourced, seasonal ingredients. This menu boasts a refined selection that invites food enthusiasts to explore rich flavors and exquisite presentations in every course.

Begin your meal with a selection of thoughtfully crafted starters that showcase the bounty of Molise’s natural landscape.

A harmonious medley of mushrooms, artichokes, and roots that captures earthy, vibrant flavors.

Tra il lago e il fiume, pesci d’acqua dolce ed erbe: 

Delicately prepared freshwater fish paired with fresh herbs, evoking the serene waters between lake and river.

The main courses are a celebration of regional specialties and creative finesse, offering both traditional and reinvented classics.

Creamy white rice with fresh asparagus and primo sale cheese, a simple yet elegant dish.

Ziti pasta paired with cauliflower and anchovies, delivering a playful balance of savory and tender textures.

Gnocchi di patate cotte sotto la cenere, spugnole, lumache e burro bianco: 

Potato gnocchi cooked under ashes, complemented by morel mushrooms, snails, and a rich white butter sauce.

Expertly prepared salted cod, showcasing its delicate flavors with finesse.

A sumptuous five-course pork tasting that explores diverse preparations and flavors.

Piccione, cardamomo scalogno e carote (per due persone): 

Pigeon with cardamom, shallots, and carrots, designed as a perfect dish to share between two.

End your meal on a sweet note with desserts that blend traditional ingredients and refined techniques to delight the palate.

A curated selection of fine cheeses from the region, perfect to savor slowly.

Creamy rice pudding infused with fresh lemon and bay leaf, a refreshing twist on a classic.

Soft brioche paired with creamy goat yogurt and house-made preserves for a delightful balance.

A comforting dessert featuring wheat, cinnamon, and caramel, blending warm spices and sweetness.

Complement your meal with an excellent selection of wines and beverages thoughtfully chosen to pair with the menu’s diverse flavors. The chef’s specials, including tasting menus, offer an exceptional exploration of French culinary artistry infused with the essence of Molise’s traditions.

Indulge in authentic Italian cuisine at Contrasto in Cercemaggiore. Savor delicious dishes in a charming atmosphere. Book your table now!

Authentic Italian Dining at Contrasto, Cercemaggiore

Cercemaggiore Municipality

Contrasto

Otto portate che raccontano la cucina del nostro territorio in un movimento tra passato e futuro, un intreccio tra tradizioni e tecniche moderne.

Menù degustazione Millemetri

Un viaggio lungo il Molise, un omaggio alla nostra terra tra conoscenze, tradizioni e contaminazioni.

Menù degustazione Tratturo

L’unione di sapori decisi, una materia dal gusto avvolgente per un incontro tra il lontano e il vicino.

Menù degustazione L’Anatra Mulard

Discover Contrasto: Molise's Culinary Gem in Cercemaggiore Italy's Hidden Treasure of Fine Dining and Tradition 

Nestled in the picturesque village of Cercemaggiore, in the heart of Molise, Italy, 

 stands out as a beacon of refined dining. This exceptional restaurant offers a unique blend of French culinary finesse and authentic Molise flavors, creating an unforgettable gastronomic journey.

A Feast of Flavors: Signature Tasting Menus That Tell a Story

At Contrasto, dining is an immersive experience where every dish narrates the rich history and vibrant future of Molise cuisine. Choose from meticulously crafted tasting menus that showcase the region’s culinary heritage with a modern twist:

Experience eight exquisite courses that weave together tradition and innovation, offering a dynamic taste of Molise’s culinary landscape for €70.

Embark on a flavorful journey across Molise with this homage to local traditions and influences for €65.

Savor bold flavors in a harmonious blend that brings together distant and local tastes for €70.

Unparalleled Ambience and Impeccable Service

Contrasto is housed in a beautifully restored historic building attached to a rock formation, where exposed stone walls and timber finishes blend seamlessly with modern lighting and tasteful decor. This creates an intimate yet sophisticated atmosphere ideal for both casual lunches and elegant dinners.

From the white-gloved servers to the chef’s personal table visits explaining the inspiration behind each dish, service at Contrasto is consistently praised as exceptional and attentive, elevating your dining experience to new heights.

Planning your visit is seamless with amenities such as free parking, comfortable dining facilities suitable for children, and multiple payment options including contactless NFC payments and major credit cards. Contrasto operates with reservations encouraged to guarantee your spot in this sought-after dining destination.

Via Roma 55, Cercemaggiore, Molise, Italy

French-inspired with Molise traditional influences

Recommended to secure your dining experience

Why Contrasto Should Be Your Next Culinary Destination

Contrasto isn’t just a restaurant; it’s a celebration of Molise’s rich culture and culinary excellence. Its dedication to quality ingredients, innovative dishes, and exceptional service makes it a must-visit for food lovers, digital nomads seeking a memorable meal, and travelers eager to explore Italy’s lesser-known gourmet jewels.

Book your table at Contrasto and indulge in an extraordinary taste experience that bridges tradition with modern culinary artistry in the heart of Molise.

Molise Region

Experience exquisite French-inspired cuisine at Contrasto in Cercemaggiore. Savor our tasting menus and book your table for a gastronomic journey!

Contrasto: Luxury Dining in Cercemaggiore, Molise

Plan your visit to Contrasto! Discover nearby attractions and tips to enhance your dining experience in beautiful Molise.

Itineraries & Tips for Visiting Contrasto, Molise

Learn about Contrasto, where Chef Lucio Testa blends tradition with innovation in Molise cuisine. A must-visit for food lovers!

Experience Fine Dining at Contrasto in Cercemaggiore, Molise

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