Lanterna Verde

The story

Lanterna Verde: Michelin-Starred Modern Cuisine in Villa di Chiavenna, Italy

A Family Story, Rooted in the Valley

The story of Lanterna Verde is the story of the Tonola family. It began with the grandfather, who returned to Italy from Switzerland and took over a small trout farm fed by the crystalline waters of the stream bordering San Barnaba. What started as a simple kiosk for those prized trout grew into a destination for fine dining. Today, the restaurant is helmed by Chef Roberto Tonola, the third generation and the only second-generation member of JRE in the family. He works alongside his father Antonio, who divides his time between the kitchen, dining room, and cellar, while Cecilia and Giovanna look after the guests.

A Cuisine of Place and Precision

Lanterna Verde’s modern cuisine is defined by the bounty of its immediate surroundings. The kitchen draws on local trout, chestnut flour from the family’s own grove, mountain herbs, milk, cheeses, eggs, and meats from small local producers. The results are dishes that balance taste and refinement, staying true to the restaurant’s long-standing philosophy of healthy, flavourful cooking. This dedication to quality and territory has earned the restaurant a Michelin star, a recognition of its high-quality cooking.

Dining Spaces for Every Occasion

The restaurant offers several settings: a spacious main hall, a veranda, and a cool outdoor terrace. These spaces, along with an interesting wine list, make Lanterna Verde suitable for both intimate dinners and larger events, from weddings to private parties and themed evenings. The atmosphere remains reserved and welcoming, with a focus on an exclusive, award-winning cuisine served with cordial service.