Chef Massimo Bottura Opens Posh Hotel in Modena

Massimo Bottura wears many crowns. The chef patron of Osteria Francescana has worked assiduously over the years to ensure that the restaurant retains its status as one of the best restaurants in the world. Between creating iconic dishes, Bottura has managed to author five books and also runs a non-profit organization that focuses on creating public awareness about food wastage and homelessness. The world’s best chef is now ready to add another feather to his cap — he has decided to take the plunge into luxury hotel realm, a move he had been contemplating for some time now. Bottura wanted to open an inn close to Modena to make up for the absence of a lavish hotel in the city.

It all began when two years ago Bottura and his wife, Lara Gilmore, rescued a 200-year-old magnificent estate, famous locally as the venue of many lavish parties, from foreclosure. Bottura and Gilmore invested in the property and spent two years renovating and remodeling it with the help of friends with eclectic tastes. Now known as the Maria Luigia Inn, after the name of Bottura’s mother, this three-story property is spread over 12 acres and is located only 20-minutes outside of Italy. The hotel houses 12 rooms, has a tennis court, a swimming pool, a tastefully done music room, and a spiffing sculpture garden.

If you are an art aficionado, Bottura’s new project should be your next stop. The celebrated chef and his wife plan to elevate the luxury quotient of this property by making it home to memorable pieces by many stalwarts of the art world. It is being said that guests will be able to admire the work of the likes of Tracey Emin, Matthew Barney, and Andy Warhol.

For those whose prime motive is to feast on delectable dishes by the world’s best chef, the inn houses an eat-in kitchen. Guests will be able to enjoy a lavish breakfast and light lunch, with menus designed by the chef himself. However, if that brings no satisfaction to the taste buds of guests, they will be allowed to pre-reserve a spot at Bottura’s tour-de-force restaurant, Osteria Francescana. If you haven’t had the pleasure of dining at this place before, make sure to try Tutto, a dining extravaganza that includes 12 meals.

On arrival, guests will be welcomed with half bottles of Lambrusco, the famous Italian wine that ranges from dry to sweet in taste and is a coveted choice among wine lovers world over, and Parmigiano Reggiano, the famous Italian cheese.

Bottura and his wife have not revealed the opening day yet, but if reports are to be believed guests will be able to enjoy this luxurious experience soon. With the owners going out of their way to ensure that a night’s stay at the Maria Lugia Inn won’t be something guests will easily forget, it is but obvious that the rate will be slightly heavier on the pocket. Rooms will cost $519 per night. However, with this move, Bottura and his wife have successfully tapped into the minds of the rich and elite of Italy and the world.