Over 1,000 Food Experts Say This is the World’s Best Restaurant

Already known as one of the world’s prime destinations when it comes to its culinary offerings, Italy is once again home to the best restaurant in the world.

Osteria Francescana has taken the top spot in the 2018 World's 50 Best Restaurants. Rankings are based on votes from more than 1,000 chefs, writers, and restaurateurs in the industry.

The restaurant, which is run by Italian chef Massimo Bottura, was also named the world’s best restaurant in 2016.

Located in Bottura’s hometown of Modena, Osteria Francescana offers diners dishes that pay homage to the local, traditional ingredients, while offering whimsical modern twists on the classics.

For example, the chef will take the ingredients that Modena is renowned for, including its production of balsamic vinegar and Parmesan cheese, and create dishes like the now famed Five Ages of Parmigiano Reggiano (a tasting of the region’s cheese served in varying temperatures, textures, and taste profiles).

One ingredient, five ages, five preparations. One mind blown.

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You’ll also find dishes like suckling pig served with traditional balsamic vinegar from the region and seafood selections like the Adriatic chowder, which combines sea snails, razor clams, blue lobster, and truffle clam chowder into a pie crust.

Bottura’s love of art and music influences his dishes, with contemporary artwork lining the three Michelin-starred, 12-table restaurant.

Osteria Francescana offers menus a la-carte or through a 10-course tasting menu for 250 euros (about $290 per person) and a 12-course tasting menu for 270 euros (about $313 per person.)

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