Locanda 4 Cuochi

Locanda 4 Cuochi is a modern Veronese restaurant on Via Alberto Mario, a quiet street near the Roman Arena in Verona, in the Veneto region of northern Italy. It opened in 2012 and has built a reputation as an accessible way to experience contemporary cooking in a city where the best-known fine-dining addresses carry much higher prices. The kitchen works with Veneto ingredients and presents them in a lighter, modern style, and the menu leans on tasting-style formats. Its set lunch menu is the best-known offer and is popular with visitors and locals who want a multi-course meal at a mid-range price. A seasonal tasting menu is available for dinner for those who want to see more of the kitchen, and the contents change with the produce available through the year. Dishes draw on the province's rice, vegetables, freshwater fish and meats, with regional pasta and risotto often appearing. The room is relaxed and contemporary rather than formal. Tables are set with care but the mood is friendly, noise levels are moderate and there is no strict dress code, so smart casual clothing is fine. The wine list focuses on Veneto producers, including Valpolicella and Soave, with bottles from elsewhere in Italy and a selection by the glass. Prices are in the middle to upper-middle range for Verona: the set lunch is the most economical route, while the tasting menu at dinner costs noticeably more. The restaurant is closed on Mondays and serves lunch and dinner on other days, though hours should be confirmed on the website. Reservations are recommended, particularly for weekend dinners and during the summer opera season, when the streets around the Arena are busy. Booking can be done through the website. The location, a short walk from the Arena and Piazza Bra, suits visitors who want a considered meal before or after an evening performance.