Bistrot
Forte dei Marmi, Italy
⭐1 Star
The Experience
From Michelin Guide
Despite its name, this is in fact a gourmet restaurant and not a simple bistro. It is run by the Vaiani, a family of professional restaurateurs and hoteliers who have entrusted the kitchen here to talented chef Andrea Mattei. This partnership has strengthened the style of Bistrot, which is somewhere between traditional and modern in feel and where the quality of the ingredients has always been of utmost importance. The restaurant is particularly renowned for its excellent fish, most of which comes from the Tyrrhenian sea, while it also boasts two wood-fired ovens in which the chef bakes different, truly delicious breads and cooks some of his dishes. The wine selection is a further attraction – the beautiful wine cellar is home to just under 2 000 different labels, with the choice of champagnes and Burgundy wines meriting special mention.
Unique Things
From Visitor Experiences
Here are three unique and unconventional aspects of the Michelin-starred restaurant Bistrot in Forte dei Marmi:
1. Open Kitchen with Two Wood-Fire Ovens
Bistrot features an open kitchen where guests can see the preparation of meat and fish dishes cooked using two wood-fire ovens, adding a distinctive rustic and authentic touch to the dining experience.
2. Family-Run with a Labor of Love Atmosphere
The restaurant is family-run by the Vaiani family, known for their professionalism in hospitality, and it is described as a palpable labor of love, combining excellent personalized service with delicately prepared Versilian dishes in a relaxed seaside atmosphere.
3. Blend of Traditional and Modern Culinary Style
Bistrot’s cuisine, led by chef Andrea Mattei, strikes a balance between traditional and modern Italian cooking, emphasizing high-quality ingredients and a gourmet approach despite the restaurant’s unassuming name, which contrasts with its refined dining experience.
Ingredient Stars
From Visitor Experiences
The most honored or signature ingredients at the Michelin-starred restaurant Bistrot in Forte dei Marmi include:
Truffles: Featured prominently in the signature truffle risotto, they add earthy, luxurious notes and are served as fine shavings atop the creamy dish, emphasizing indulgence and regional richness.
Sea bass: Prepared "under salt" to preserve moisture and natural flavor, this fish is a highlight of the menu, showcasing the restaurant’s focus on fresh, local seafood paired with seasonal vegetables.
Seasonal vegetables: These accompany key dishes like the sea bass, providing freshness and vibrant flavors that reflect the Mediterranean coastal terroir.
Local Tuscan ingredients: The chef’s commitment to sourcing from nearby markets ensures the menu reflects the rich culinary heritage of the region, contributing to the authenticity and quality of each dish.
These ingredients collectively define Bistrot’s culinary identity, blending luxury (truffles), freshness (sea bass and vegetables), and regional tradition (Tuscan produce) to create a refined dining experience worthy of its Michelin star.