Casa Buono
Ventimiglia, Italy




The Experience
From Michelin Guide
This unexpected Ligurian gem is situated in Trucco, a small village in the Val Roia just inland from Ventimiglia. There’s no à la carte here, just the “Orto e Mare” tasting menu to which guests can also add a meat dish and a selection of cheeses from the well-stocked cheese trolley. Although the dishes are occasionally influenced by Ligurian traditions, they are for the most part creative, surprising and beautifully prepared. Given its success, the restaurant has recently been extended while at the same time retaining its simple, colourful and welcoming ambience. The high-quality service comes courtesy of the chef’s friendly wife, ably assisted by her professional and capable staff.
Unique Things
From Visitor Experiences
Family Heritage
- Casa Buono is deeply rooted in family traditions, with the current owners, Antonio and Valentina, continuing the legacy of Antonio's grandmother and great-aunt, who were influential figures in local agriculture and cuisine.
Seasonal and Local Focus
- The restaurant's menu, particularly the "Orto e Mare" tasting menu, emphasizes the use of seasonal and local ingredients, showcasing the unique flavors of the Ligurian region while blending traditional and contemporary cooking techniques.
Intimate Atmosphere
- Casa Buono is known for its warm and welcoming ambiance, creating a familial dining experience that allows guests to feel at home while enjoying high-quality, Michelin-starred cuisine.
Ingredient Stars
From Visitor Experiences
Signature Ingredients
- Fresh seafood: Sourced from local fishermen along the Ligurian coast, the seafood is celebrated for its quality and flavor, forming the backbone of many dishes in the menu, particularly in the 'Orto e Mare' tasting menu.
- Seasonal vegetables: Grown in the nearby Valle Roja, these vegetables are picked at their peak ripeness, ensuring vibrant flavors and nutritional value, and are often featured in innovative preparations that highlight their natural taste.
- Liguria's aromatic herbs: Including basil, rosemary, and thyme, these herbs are integral to the region's culinary identity and are used to enhance the flavors of both seafood and vegetable dishes, reflecting the restaurant's commitment to local traditions.
- High-quality olive oil: Produced from the family-owned olive groves, this oil is a staple in the kitchen, used for dressing dishes and enhancing flavors, showcasing the rich agricultural heritage of the region.
- Local meats: Such as pigeon and partridge, which are prepared with care and creativity, often featuring in the tasting menu to provide a taste of traditional Ligurian cuisine with a modern twist.
Menu & Pricing
Current Offerings & Prices
Tasting Menu
- Orto e Mare: €100
- Additional Meat Dish: €125
Signature Dishes
- Cheese Tasting from the Cart: Price varies