Essenza

The story

Essenza, Città della Pieve – Michelin-Recommended Contemporary Dining in Umbria

Essenza: Umbrian Flavours, Contemporary Vision

Perched on the rolling hills of Umbria, Essenza is the restaurant at Borghi dell’Eremo, a sprawling estate near Città della Pieve. The dining room is defined by a striking glass wall that floods the space with daylight and, come evening, frames a slow sunset over the Val di Chiana. In summer, the terrace opens to the scent of hay and the chorus of crickets, carried by the Scirocco.

The kitchen is led by Chef Federico, whose cooking is rooted in the territory. He draws on Umbria’s dual traditions—both peasant and noble—and reworks them with a contemporary, essential hand. The menu changes with the seasons, favouring produce from the estate’s own organic farm: extra virgin olive oil, vegetables, eggs, honey, and saffron. The rest comes from small neighbouring producers whose craftsmanship matches the chef’s exacting standards.

This commitment to ingredient quality and place has earned Essenza a Michelin Recommendation for 2026. The recognition underscores a kitchen that lets the land speak, without unnecessary flourish.

The experience extends upstairs to the lounge bar, where a fireplace warms the cooler months and a panoramic terrace welcomes aperitifs. The wine list, curated by the maître, pairs local and national labels with each course, while the bar offers refined cocktails and spirits.

Essenza is fine dining that feels grounded—a clear, confident expression of Umbria, served with a view.