Food of Passion

In Italy, food is prepared from the heart. A meal shouldn't take all day to prepare. Its customary to have as much fun as possible, then prepare a delicious meal that that the body wants. A women should never spend all morning in the kitchen making lunch or the afternoon creating supper. Meals should be simple, quick, and full of passion, so that the normal day-to-day life does not stop.

Marina and Manlio Signora have owned Il Rifugio for twenty years. Located in Budoia, the restaurant sits high in the mountain after miles of narrow and scenic windy roads. It looks like a tucked-away country cottage with a rustic feel. Less than 20 tables line the narrow restaurant and a outdoor patio has gorgeous views of the hillside.

The Signoras serve a traditional, Italian-style dinner - three to four courses (depending on what you order). You start with a welcome soup - small timbale of mushroom and sage with cream of montasio cheesse. Next, are the appetizers. A full plate of thinly-sliced prosciutto with melon balls. For those who only ordered a first course dish, it arrives now. Gnocchi with smoked ricotta-cheese or crespelle (Italian crepes) filled with cheese and potatoes. Once all first course dishes are consumed, the second course arrives only to those who requested it. Rosticciata con polenta e "l'impiccato" (split with angus beef, deer, pork filet and vegetables) or more simply, veal with polenta and potatoes served in a skillet. For desert, cream of ricotta-cheese with blueberries and chocolate is served in a deep martini glass, followed by coffee. Sampling of dishes is encouraged throughout the meal. Everyone has a plate in front of them, even if it's empty during a course.

According to Manlio, in Italy, a chef's calling to food is stronger than a priest's to the church. This is evident in his dishes, the presentation, and their gracious service.

Fun fact: The Signoras hosted President Clinton on his visit to Italy in 1999.