The story
Locanda Leon d'Oro is a Michelin-starred restaurant in Pralboino, a small town in the province of Brescia. The Martini family—Franco, Emma, and their parents Erminio and Mari—carry forward a tradition that began in 1942, when the building was restored to its former glory as a respected inn. The restaurant itself sits in an ancient country house, with a crackling fireplace for cold winter evenings and a fragrant garden for summer dining. The atmosphere is one of genuine hospitality, rooted in the values of the past but open to change.
The kitchen at Locanda Leon d'Oro is described as "the mirror of the house," an expression of tradition dedicated to renewal. This approach to country cooking is showcased in two tasting menus. "La Cucina in Cascina" (the farmhouse kitchen) offers dishes like their signature "Ciarighi" and a slow-cooked kid goat with roasted polenta. The "Marenostrum" menu turns to the sea, with courses such as a cut of amberjack and a cannolo of baccalà. The à la carte selection is equally broad, featuring Brescian classics like casoncelli pasta with a grana fondue and black truffle, alongside inventive plates like a venison tartare with green pepper and a berry infusion. Each dish is carefully composed, balancing deep flavors and surprising combinations.
The restaurant has carried the pride of a Michelin star for years, a recognition that aligns with its meticulous attention to detail and continuous culinary research. For the Martini family, this star is not an endpoint but a reflection of their daily dedication to a craft that has consumed the most important part of their lives. Whether you choose the "Cucina in Cascina" or "Marenostrum" path, the meal is a journey between land and sea, served with the warmth of a family that has been welcoming guests for generations.
Recognition
Ambience
Details
Location
