I castagni

Enrico Gerli’s cooking starts from Lombardy tradition and builds towards a classic-modern style with a clear gastronomic culture. Recognisable ingredients stay at the centre, with technique doing the quiet work: clean sauces, balanced richness, and confident timing. Fish has a real presence here, alongside dishes that speak to the local area, from duck and goose preparations to pasta with depth and character. There is room for thoughtful “digressions” into other regions too, always in service of flavour and the pleasure of the meal.

Wine is part of the experience at restaurant I Castagni. The cellar is curated with the same focus as the kitchen, with more than 600 labels spanning Italy and beyond, giving plenty of room for pairings and unexpected bottles. When the weather allows, the private garden adds another layer to the visit. Ideal for a long lunch or an relaxed evening. It’s the kind of setting that makes you want to stay at the table a little longer.

I Castagni is set in the countryside just outside Vigevano, around 30 km from Milan, so you get space and silence without feeling far from everything. Vigevano itself is full of character, with a historic centre worth wandering and the impressive Sforza Castle as a standout visit. It’s an easy place to pair culture with a great meal, then head back into the fields for a calmer pace.

The atmosphere at I Castagni is shaped as much by the family as by the cooking. The rooms feel lived-in and personal, and the dining room is guided with warmth and ease by Mrs. Gerli. It’s fine dining that still feels human: attentive hosting, a sense of comfort, and a clear aim to make guests feel genuinely welcome while eating and drinking exceptionally well.