Osteria Santa Marina - PREDAPPIO

Some of the most delicious food eaten in a long time. Imaginative, and perfectly executed. A perfect combination of traditional Venetian cuisine and fine dining. Great service too.

This place is worth a visit. Service was professional and warm. Food was amazing. The eggplant Parmesan was flavorful without being chewy or overly smoky. The fish that we tried (total 3: turbot, John Dory, and branzino) was cooked and seasoned perfectly, with generous amounts of olive oil and salt (without oversalting) and welcome, light, vegetable accompaniments. The new tiramisu was tasty and interesting, although the croquant on top was a little unnecessary. The millefoglie was probably the only disappointment in the meal as the crème overwhelmed the dessert. Wine was fabulous, an unfiltered Italian white, and quite inexpensive.

If you are travelling through the Appenines between Tuscany and Romagna don't blink or you will miss this cosy little traditional eatery by the roadside between Strada San Zeno and Predappio. It's family run which means home-cooking and mamma is called Marina. Home-made cappelletti, tortelli (ravioli filled either with herbs or pumpkin and potato), tagliatelle etc and grilled or roast meats with grilled, roast veg and salads are great value €20-25 for a two-course meal with wine. The local wine is on tap, unless you ask for a bottle (c.€10). Willy, the owner/son/waiter and his wife, Luana serve you themselves and if you fancy something a little more adventurous will suggest snails, frogs, tripe and other local traditional country dishes...