Ristorante FRE menu overview in Monforte d'Alba Italy Michelin dining experience gourmet seasonal dishes inspired by tradition and innovation local Piedmont cuisine exquisite chef tasting menu wines and cocktails luxury restaurant destination Langhe region culinary journey exceptional starters mains desserts drinks specials
Nestled in the scenic hills of Monforte d'Alba, Ristorante FRE offers an avant-garde gastronomic journey that harmoniously blends Piedmont's culinary heritage with modern French influences by Chef Francesco Marchese. This Michelin-starred gem showcases seasonal menus crafted with precision, elevating local ingredients into memorable masterpieces.
Starters That Spark The Palate With Local Flair and Creativity
Begin your experience with impeccably composed starters that celebrate the region's finest produce and delicate flavor pairings. Savor the Tartare with creamy foie gras, porcini mushroom crisp, and a fragrant hay-infused mushroom reduction , or delight in the fresh crunch of green asparagus paired with vanilla-infused melting apple and a tangy buttermilk and elderberry vinaigrette . Other highlights include the glazed trout with fennel vinegar and smoked roe, and a pea and ginger blend topped with chive royale and caviar, offering layers of texture and taste that awaken the senses.
Mains Featuring Regional Ingredients Elevated To Artistry
The main courses showcase Chef Marchese's mastery in balancing tradition with innovation. Indulge in tajarin pasta accompanied by a terrine of chicken liver and a Barolo vinegar gelée , or the risotto barigoule enriched with stuffed artichoke hearts and steamed lard for a sumptuous mouthfeel. For the adventurous palate, the plin pasta with crispy sweetbreads, milk onion, and dehydrated brewer’s yeast adds a compelling depth of flavor and texture.
Highlight dishes like the glazed sweetbread with parsley cream, capers, and anchovy jus, or the exquisitely plated lamb saddle infused with tonka bean aroma and celeriac cream, complemented by potato crusted shoulder and lamb skewer, embody the essence of luxury dining in Piemonte.
Desserts To Complete Your Culinary Journey
Sweet finishes at FRE highlight local flavors with refined technique. Experience the silky hazelnut frozen cream paired with crunchy caramel coffee notes, or enjoy the bright citrus aspic accompanied by fresh pollen cream and a refreshing sorbet made from oxalis leaves, providing a perfect balance of sweetness and acidity.
Beverages and Specials For A Perfect Pairing
Complement your meal with an expertly curated selection of local and international wines from the Langhe region, skillfully recommended by the restaurant’s sommelier. For those preferring non-alcoholic options, crafted pairings are available to enhance your dining experience. The restaurant also offers a choice of specialty cocktails and fine coffee to round off your visit.
Highlights at a glance
- Starters: Tartare with foie gras, green asparagus with vanilla apple, glazed trout and caviar-topped peas.
- Mains: Tajarin with chicken liver terrine, barigoule risotto, plin pasta with sweetbreads, and refined lamb preparations.
- Desserts: Hazelnut iced cream with caramel coffee and citrus aspic with pollen cream sorbet.
- Beverages and Pairings: Extensive wine list featuring Langhe selections, crafted cocktails, and non-alcoholic pairings for every course.
