Il Piccolo Principe
Viareggio, Italy
⭐2 Stars
The Experience
From Michelin Guide
Situated on the ground floor of the iconic Grand Hotel Principe di Piemonte, one of Versilia’s finest hotels, this gourmet restaurant boasts an elegant, contemporary-style dining room which has recently been extended into an exclusive wing adorned with works of art and bespoke designer furniture. Giuseppe Mancino is the name behind the success of this restaurant, a talented chef from Campania who delights his guests with his beautifully presented, “photogenic” cuisine. His dishes are creative and enticing, delicious and at the same time elegant – he manages to find the perfect balance between the fragrant flavours of Mediterranean cuisine and the precision of French technique. His dishes are showcased on three tasting menus, one of which is vegetarian, from which courses can be chosen individually à la carte style. The wine list is also excellent, proudly highlighting labels from Tuscany while at the same time including a selection of French options.
Unique Things
From Visitor Experiences
1. Location and Ambiance: Situated in a Historic Luxury Hotel Veranda Overlooking the Sea
Il Piccolo Principe is uniquely located on the veranda of the ground floor of the Grand Hotel Principe di Piemonte, a historic and luxurious 5-star hotel in Viareggio. This setting offers diners an enchanting view of the Viareggio seafront and promenade, combining seaside charm with elegant, contemporary design and bespoke art pieces, creating a refined yet intimate atmosphere.
2. Culinary Philosophy: A Journey Through Italian Regions with a Blend of Sea and Land
The restaurant’s cuisine, led by Chef Giuseppe Mancino, is distinguished by its philosophy of showcasing the highest quality ingredients sourced from the sea, Tuscany’s interior, and various Italian regions. The tasting menus are designed as a "real journey into taste," blending sea and land dishes that reflect both Mediterranean flavors and French culinary precision, including a vegetarian tasting option.
3. Artistic and Photogenic Presentation of Dishes
Chef Mancino’s dishes are noted for their creative, elegant, and visually striking presentation, often described as “photogenic.” This artistic approach to plating is not merely aesthetic but serves to enhance the dining experience, balancing the sensory appeal of Mediterranean cuisine with refined technique.
Ingredient Stars
From Visitor Experiences
The most honored or signature ingredients at the Michelin-starred restaurant Il Piccolo Principe in Viareggio are:
Red mullet: Featured in the pizzaiola-style red mullet dish, this local seafood is a highlight of the menu, showcasing the freshness and Mediterranean flavors central to the restaurant's cuisine.
Tuscan bread: Used in various dishes, this ingredient reflects the regional culinary tradition and adds rustic texture and flavor.
Mozzarella: Incorporated in signature dishes, mozzarella brings creamy richness and is a staple of Italian gastronomy emphasized by the chef's refined techniques.
Capers, tomatoes, and black olives: These Mediterranean ingredients are combined in dishes like the pizzaiola-style red mullet, contributing bright, briny, and savory notes that define the local flavor profile.
Butter and anchovies: Used notably in the spaghetti creamed with butter, anchovies, and smoked tea, this combination exemplifies the chef’s skill in balancing umami and creamy textures with a smoky twist.
These ingredients are significant as they represent the restaurant's dedication to local, sustainable sourcing and the fusion of Tuscan and broader Mediterranean culinary traditions, elevated by French technique and creative presentation.
Menu & Pricing
Current Offerings & Prices
Tasting Menu
- 7 courses (primo, secondo, contorno, dolce): €180
- 8 courses (primo, secondo, contorno, dolce, antipasto, formaggio, digestivo): €220
A La Carte
- Spaghetti: €22
- Tartare: €25
- Marinato: €28
- Risotto: €32
- Pasta 1: €20
- Tortelli: €24
- Triglia: €30
Desserts
- Agrumi e zafferano: €18
- Cioccolato, peperoncino e ibisco: €19
- Lamponi e sesamo nero: €16