I didn't know it yet upon arrival, but this would become one of my favorite meals in Italy. In the quiet village of Concesio, near Brescia, lies Miramonti l'Altro, a hidden sanctuary among Italy's revered culinary destinations. The 20-minute drive from Brescia--past olive groves, villas, and hills--was a perfect warm-up. Arriving at the villa-style entrance, framed by boxwoods and iron gates, felt like visiting a warm, welcoming home. A minimalist room in black, grey, and red greeted us, backed by a lush garden. With two Michelin stars and Chef Philippe Léveillé at the helm, this elegant restaurant offered more than a meal--it was timeless culinary artistry, blending classic technique with modern flair. Tableside presentations introduced bold, signature dishes. Each offered a simple takeaway: delicious, time after time. Open for 55 years, with two Michelin stars for 24, the restaurant's service was always warm and lively. *Not to Miss Menu Items* "#Iwantedtobeatomato!!" A vibrant red dome hid delicate prawn tartare and buffalo mozzarella, topped with gazpacho. Yes, that really is the name listed on the menu. "Triumph of Onions Almost Venetian Style" This dish elevates humble onions, pairing them with foie gras and a rich reduction--velvety, sweet, and earthy. Comfort food in haute couture. "Signature Mushrooms & Cheese Risotto" The family recipe risotto: the best I've ever had. Creamy yet al dente, packed with mushrooms and sweet mountain cheese. A menu staple for decades; now I know why. *A Cheese Cart That Stops Time* The legendary double cheese cart is a mobile museum of Europe's best fromageries. Dozens of varieties are presented with expert narration. It's a generous, indulgent, edible masterclass. *Cream Ice Cream* Just when I thought I'd tasted it all, Cream Ice Cream appeared. Made with local milk, eggs, Lake Garda lemons, Tahitian or Madagascar vanilla, and untreated sugar, it's scooped tableside. Heaven. Final Thoughts: A Meal Worth the Journey Miramonti l'Altro is a pilgrimage for food lovers. From experimental (#Iwantedtobeatomato!!) to traditional (risotto and ice cream), Miramonti honors its roots while embracing the future. If you're in northern Italy, make the detour. You'll talk about this meal for years. Bravo, chef! Fan forever. read more

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If I could give it 6 stars I would. Hands down the best meal I have had in years! We drove through a very residential neighborhood which had me believing we took a wrong turn somewhere. Out of nowhere this lovely Villa behind gates and lighted up in the evening appeared. It was beautiful! The atmosphere is a mix between old world beauty and modern cuisine and service. The servers were everywhere they needed to be and nowhere they did not. They were not fussy, stuffy, just perfect. This is yes, what I describe more as fancy food or meal experience....not somewhere to just go and have some pasta, although, I am sure you could! I was delighted to see several menu options, tasting, and ala carte. Our table of three choose a tasting menu with 3 main components. However, there were several courses the chef brought out to compliment the meal. For example an amuse bouche, another course of bread/sardines with a metal tube of green herbed sauce, and an unbelievable after the dessert/cheese mini pastry tray. Hands down the best cheese carts (yes 2 full carts) I have ever experienced anywhere. If I could have put more food in my mouth I would! I had found this 2 Michelin star on a blog and our local Host had not been for 15 years. He said it was completely different and he proclaimed it the best restaurant in the Brescia region! Keep doing what you are doing Miramonti L'altro because you are killing it! read more

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A 15 minute taxi ride from the Brescia train station (40 minutes from Milan Central station - one stop) to this little neighborhood in an adorable town and a restaurant that looks much more like someone's home....no doubt with the amount of time they likely spend in the kitchen to prepare such Oh My Yummy God ("OMYG") food, they feel like it is home! Folks, if you are in Italy, then you MUST parachute into this town and visit this restaurant. Frankly, if you are reading this post, you need to book a flight to Milan, hop the train and taxi and sip 'n snack at this oasis of France meeting Italy cooking! Quite a crowd filing in at 1pm, mostly well-dressed. We are a little under-dressed, but there ya go! No doubt they are coming from Christmas Day church, which I missed for the 30th plus year now! ..... read more