You can’t really suggest that you know Chiavenna, if you haven’t tasted the fare served up at Al Cenacolo.
It’s a sentiment that might just seem a little over the top, but it does sum up the philosophy that Silvano Scinetti’s restaurant is based on. Tho’ even finding the place is not to be taken for granted. We are in the Santa Maria district nearby the baroque church in the historic pedestrianised centre. The entrance is distinctly low-key and leads into an unremarkable corridor. Yet once inside, the restaurant envelops each guest in a particularly special atmosphere which over the years has become an integral part of its very identity.
Silvano Scinetti was among the very first to engage in the reworking of recipes based on local traditions, reinventing dishes which have since become genuine classics.
Culinary encounters which were to lead to Al Cenacolo being awarded the first Michelin star in the province. Take the “taroz” for example, a simple dish which epitomises Valtellina’s gastronomy, based on local Alpine vegetables and cheese, or indeed “tagliatelle alle 5 P” involving a recipe which incorporates a deliciously distinct Chiavenna
relish.
Of course the menu also includes pizzoccheri and other local specialities, but it’s certainly worthwhile allowing chef to employ the considerable fruits of his imagination and try some very special creations inserted appropriately in the menu as the seasons run their course.
Another key element at Al Cenacolo is the service. Guests are greeted by staff with a particularly warm welcome, intent on making each and every visitor’s dining experience a special one. The dining area develops on several levels,
however perhaps the most popular feature is the romantic terrace overlooking the river Mera, where in summer you can enjoy a splendid view and a delightfully cooling breeze.
It’s the perfect place for dinner with friends or loved ones, indulged by the melodious murmuring of the water below, whilst enjoying a glass of a quality Valtellina red.
Over the years Al Cenacolo has managed to build a very strong identity, much appreciated by tourists visiting Chiavenna or indeed making their way to other holiday destinations in Italy and Switzerland. A priceless stop-over, invariably
chosen by anyone who has discovered that here at Al Cenacolo they will enjoy that particular combination of elements which make it a testament to quality food and good taste.
