Tana de 'l Ors

The story

Tana de l'Ors – Michelin-Recommended Modern Cuisine in Forno di Zoldo, Italy

A Historic Locanda in the Dolomites

In the heart of Val di Zoldo, Tana de l'Ors is a historic inn that has been transformed into a destination for discerning diners. Since 2008, brothers Fabrizio and Alessandro Votta have been the owners and hosts, bringing a philosophy of careful, conscious hospitality to this mountain setting. The restaurant is the jewel of the property, offering a refined dining experience that has earned it a Michelin recommendation.

The Kitchen and the Menu

The kitchen is led by Chef Nicola, whose passion for quality ingredients drives a daily-changing menu. The Votta brothers believe that a scrupulous selection of raw materials is fundamental to every dish. The evening menu is a showcase of this commitment, with offerings that change according to season, availability, and the chef’s inspiration.

Sample dishes from the menu give a clear sense of the kitchen’s style. Antipasti might include a chicken liver pâté with saffron brioche and red onion compote, or a black tempura of prawn with mandarin and star anise mayonnaise. Among the primi, a risotto with porcini and chanterelles, mantecato with pine mugo butter, sits alongside an oriental-inspired coconut milk soup with ginger and lemongrass. Secondi feature a pork shoulder cooked low-temperature with mustard and coffee, served with a potato tortino and celeriac purée, or a medallion of venison breaded with cranberries, accompanied by a potato rösti and mountain herbs. Desserts include a gratinated crêpe with lemon mousse and berry sauce, and a ricotta and almond tart with pine, chocolate, and vanilla sauce.

Atmosphere and Setting

Dining at Tana de l'Ors takes place in a warm, welcoming interior dining room with 70 seats. In warmer months, a 50-seat outdoor terrace opens up, offering views of the surrounding Dolomite peaks. For a more casual experience, the wine bar—with its fireplace and outdoor terrace—serves aperitifs, snacks, and quick lunches that do not sacrifice quality. The same attention to ingredients is present here, with options like the "carne salada" (marinated beef rump with salad, citrus, and walnuts) or the house-special Bearburger. The brothers’ approach is simple and genuine, making this a place where the quality of the modern cuisine speaks for itself, backed by the recognition of the Michelin guide.