Franceschetta 58, Modena

It all started with the Netflix series "Chef's Table". Massimo Bottura has been in the culinary scene for a long time, but that was when I really learned about his life. Naturally when I learned that he had an affordable restaurant in Modena I wanted to go. We were staying in Bologna, but it took us just an hour long train ride to Modena. It was a small and picturesque town where the best parmesan and balsamic vinegar is made. We had some time to pass before our reservation, so we went to buy some tasty goodies. 

We ended up in the town's food market where Massimo is shopping for his main restaurant Osteria Francescana. This legendary restaurant is on Filip's bucket list, but the reservations are made 2 months ahead.

Italians have a very special approach to life and it was charming to see the market full of old ladies wearing sparkling earring and chic clothes on long queues on their daily shopping for meat and cheese. 

Franchescetta 58 is the sister restaurant and affordable version of Osteria Franscescana. Its a short walk away from the center in a simple but cosy setting. 

They offer a Smart Lunch deal which consists of 3 dishes just for 19 euros. There are two more set menus with 4 or 6 dishes. We chose the Lunch Menu and the Set menu "I <3 Modena" and this way we were able to try most of the dishes on the menu. 

The start on the menu is the Emilia Burger. It's served in its own burger burger box and its Massimo's specialty. A bite of perfectly balanced flavour. 

Then there was the marinated mackerel served with yogurth with herbs, cucumber and green apple. 

Tortellini in Parmigiano Reggiano fondue. 

Roasted octopus with cauliflowers and octopus emulsion. 

Balsamic vinegar pork cheek with potato puree and sautéed spinach.  

The desserts were also great! 

The food was heavenly and very simple yet creative. Every bite was a surprise to the taste buds and a pleasure to the mouth. There were snobby Americans couple on the next table who were clearly not happy with the food and said they could cook this at home. This was so not the case. This restaurant is an experience in itself and a trip to Modena just for that is totally worth it!

After all the good food and a bottle of Italian wine we lost sense of time and almost missed our flight!