Trattoria Leoni

The story

Antica Trattoria Leoni, San Michele Tiorre – Emilian Cuisine on the Felino Hills

Family Tradition on the Hills of Felino

For fifty years, the Leoni family has run Antica Trattoria Leoni in Barbiano, a small village on the green hills of Felino in the province of Parma. The restaurant sits at via Ricò 42, immersed in the countryside. The family’s deep roots in the area are reflected in every dish, which stays true to the Emilian cuisine of the region.

A Terrace with a View

The trattoria’s strength is its summer terrace, recently expanded with a wooden deck that seats 80 guests. On clear days the panorama stretches across the hills, and in June the sunsets are spectacular. Inside, the recently renovated space holds about 65 guests across two rooms – a larger one for 50 and a smaller one for 15. The atmosphere is warm and straightforward, as a true trattoria should be.

The Recipes of Nonna Ermina

The kitchen follows the legacy of Nonna Ermina, whose recipes are still passed down today. Among her classics are cotiche coi fagioli (pork rinds with beans) and the renowned coniglio alla cacciatora (hunter-style rabbit). The menu changes according to season, but the soul of the cooking remains constant: local, traditional, and honest.

Emilian Cuisine at Its Core

Salumi are a highlight, especially the salame di Felino, aged for at least three months in the family’s own cellar, which adds natural depth. Other house-made cured meats include prosciutto di Parma (aged 30 months), coppa piacentina, and culatta. These appear on the antipasti menu alongside dishes like sfogliatina tiepida ai carciofi e spalla cotta and timballo di melanzane con fonduta di Parmigiano. Pasta is handmade – anolini in brodo, tortelli d’erbetta, tortelli di zucca, and gnocchi di patate al salame di Felino are staples. Secondi range from lepre alla cacciatora to trippa alla parmigiana con fagioli and grilled meats, including a filetto di manzo all’aceto balsamico.

Michelin-Recommended

The kitchen’s consistent quality and respect for tradition earned it a Michelin Recommendation in 2026. This recognition underscores what the Leoni family has been doing for half a century: serving the Emilian table with pride, from the hills of Felino to the plate.