If there is one single company which has succeeded in creating a genuine guarantee of qualityin its Brand, it has to be that of the pasticceria Mastai.

Chiavenna is well aware of this. Proud even. Certainly when it comes to introducing the little town to someone less familiar, then Mastai is sure to figure amongst the other recommended gems such as the San Lorenzo Collegiate Church, the Treasure Museum, the old Bottonera Mill and impressive piazza within the historic centre.

A monument in its very own way. Yes indeed, because “il Mastai” is very much regarded as

a local treasure. This has to be down to Luciano and Titta, a vital brother/sister partnership

who with enormous passion and commitment have carried forward the traditions of the family

patisserie founded by their father. It’s no accident that among the many devoted customers to Mastai, a fair number of VIP’s feature, stopping off on their route towards Madesimo or the Engadine for an aperitif or to secure a selection of their favourite dessert. A handful of names suffice: Ruffini della Moncler, the Gucci sisters, Giorgio Rocca, Urbano and Mali Cairo, Veronica Lario and the list could go on.

What Mastai ensures is a very special ambience made memorable by meticulous attention to

detail, and of course by the quality of both product and service. The opening of a second outlet in the town, across from the railway station has helped to revitalise a somewhat marginal area of Chiavenna, creating an increasingly popular meeting place which was lacking, and where friends can enjoy tasty aperitifs, wholesome snacks or perhaps a light-lunch ideal for people on their work-break.

During the winter months Mastai offers tempting and attractive gift packs to take to friends who are not lucky enough to have Chiavenna’s favourite patisserie on their doorstep. But for those of us who do – prepare to be pampered by a typically warm and tasteful Mastai welcome.