Il Gelso Nero - CASTELLUCCHIO

20 minutes out of Mantova, lies a sleepy village of Castelucchio, and hidden off the main street an unexpected find… an elegant entry and table settings, gentle music, and a talented chef with a delightful smile! Confident in his cuisine, but not arrogant in nature, Faruk kept us tantalised as we selected dishes, beautifully composed and gently flavoured. Paired with a fruity sparkling rose, and a white Pinot noir, our journey thru a culinary adventure was surprising and delectable! Sometimes you just luck out and stumble upon a hidden gem! This is one! Well done Faruk!

My friend Fred had indicated that we would have difficulty finding good food in Mantova. We’ve been staying in just outside Castelluchio in a gorgeous agritourisomo farm and rouge into the town and following TripAdvisor previous reports had the most amazing dining and hospitality experience at Il Gelso Nero. The welcome was so warm and once in side we were absolutely astounded at the magnificence of this remote restaurant. Beautiful artworks, sculptures and elegant table settings befitting a multi star Michelin Restaurant. The balletic style of Maître D Giovana the menu explanations from owner/Chef Farouk and the smiling and ever helpful staff setting the stage for a memorable and somewhat theatrical dining experience. Food was delicious and all menu dishes were the the individual interpretation of the Chef a chilled glass of local sparkling rose accompanied a delicious marinated filet of swordfish with liquorice mayonnaise/ a delicate beef tartare with black fish roe; a simple but delicious spaghetti pomodoro my choice for something simple) more local sparkling pinion noir dry and very appropriate) and then a wonderful artistic display of patisserie which by then I couldn’t finish). We were just part of the audience in this dramatic gastronomic staged event. Very much worthwhile if not for the value and quality of the food just to prove how wrong was Fred.

Best experience and the chef was kind, felt like home. Recommend to visitors if u want to eat quality Sea foods! 5 starts! Will visit again with my family for sure

Un viaggio alla scoperta di sapori unici e inebrianti, il tutto incorniciato da una raffinata e attenta cura dell'ospite, mai lasciato solo ma, anzi, sempre seguito e attentamente consigliato dallo chef Faruk, costantemente pronto a rendere l'esperienza dei suoi commensali unica e speciale. Di notevole e apprezzata professionalità anche lo staff del ristorante, di una disponibilità e preparazione ineccepibili. Un'esperienza assolutamente da ripetere molto presto.

Ristorante di alto livello in tutti i suoi aspetti: arredamento, atmosfera, cura dei dettagli e della tavola, professionalità e cortesia del personale, scelta enologica e offerta gastronomica. Piatti che immergono i commensali in un itinerario sensoriale raffinato, con abbinamenti di sapori e composizioni pittoriche delle pietanze che stimolano nel contempo gusto e vista. Un plus di pregio: l'attenzione dello chef Faruk Neziri, titolare del locale, a verificare di persona la soddisfazione dei clienti, prestandosi con disponibilità e competenza ad accompagnarli e guidarli in un meraviglioso viaggio dei sensi.