Ristorante Giardino

Ristorante Giardino brings a refined sensibility to the cooking of Fano, the Roman-founded port town at the mouth of the Metauro river, on the northern Marche coast. The kitchen bridges the Adriatic and the inland Metauro valley, drawing on the day's catch and the produce of the surrounding hills to build elegant, seasonal menus. A centrepiece is brodetto alla fanese, the local version of the Adriatic fish stew, which Fano celebrates with its own festival and which differs from neighbouring ports in its choice of fish and the use of vinegar. Handmade pasta such as passatelli dressed with seafood, carefully sourced fish, and seasonal vegetables round out a menu that respects tradition while reaching for polish. The dining room is comfortable and contemporary, and service is attentive without stiffness, making it a strong choice for a special meal on the northern coast. The wine list leans on Marche labels, with Bianchello del Metauro, the crisp white of the valley behind Fano, a natural local pairing. Fano sits on the main Adriatic railway line a short hop from Pesaro. Independent travellers should reserve on weekends and in the summer season.