The story
Osteria la Fontanina occupies one of Verona's oldest buildings, tucked between Ponte Pietra and the Teatro Romano. The site has been an osteria for over two centuries — traces of that long history remain visible in the weathered walls and antique furnishings that the Tapparini family has collected since taking over in 1984. Nicola and Marta Tapparini now run the restaurant with a passion for both food and the objects that surround their guests.
The kitchen at Osteria la Fontanina turns out creative cuisine centred on meat and fish, each dish carefully detailed. The restaurant has offered what it calls "iconic dishes" since 1999, and the menu changes to reflect the seasons and the best available ingredients. The wine list is notably vast, giving diners ample room to explore pairings from Italy and beyond.
The Michelin guide recognised Osteria la Fontanina with a Recommendation for 2026, citing the quality of its classic Italian cuisine and the evocative setting. The dining room, filled with the family's antiques, opens onto outdoor seating in warmer months, letting guests enjoy the quiet lanes of Santo Stefano. The restaurant serves lunch and dinner, and can accommodate private parties and catering.
The Tapparini family's warmth runs through every part of the meal. Nicola and Marta greet guests with a simple "Buon Appetito" that feels genuine rather than rehearsed. In a city known for its Roman arena and Shakespearean romance, Osteria la Fontanina offers something older and quieter: a place where the layers of Verona's past are still very much alive, and where the food honours that continuity.
Recognition
Ambience
Details
Location
Facebook
Instagram