Ristorante Montana: Ferrari and flavors of Modena

Ristorante Montana is a place where engines and flavors share the same heartbeat.

Just steps from the Ferrari factory, it blends racing history with the warmth of Modenese tradition.
Every wall tells a story, every plate carries a piece of Emilia-Romagna’s soul.

Sit down, and let the journey begin.

A legendary story rooted in Maranello

Since its inauguration in 1967 as both a restaurant and hotel, Montana has been part of Maranello’s cultural heartbeat.
While the hotel eventually closed, the restaurant only grew stronger, becoming a culinary landmark for locals, travelers, and the Ferrari world.

In 1985, the Paolucci family took over, bringing fresh energy while preserving the soul of the place.

At the center of this story is Mamma Rossella — a woman whose life has been intertwined with Montana’s kitchen since childhood. Learning alongside her mother, she mastered the art of traditional Modenese cooking and became the guardian of family recipes.

Her cooking is defined by patience, precision, and deep respect for the ingredients.
Every tortellino is folded by hand, every ragù is simmered for hours.

For her, food is not just nourishment — it’s a way of honoring the land and the people who shaped her.

The Atmosphere and the Ferrari connection

Walking into Montana feels like stepping into both a family home and a Ferrari hall of fame. The dining room is warm and rustic, with wooden tables, shelves of wine, and walls covered in Ferrari memorabilia — signed photos, racing helmets, and mementos from decades of motorsport history.

Dining with Champions

Over the years, Montana has welcomed some of the greatest Formula 1 Ferrari drivers — from Michael Schumacher and Kimi Räikkönen to Sebastian Vettel.

And here’s the charm: you never quite know who might be sitting at the next table.
One day it could be a young Ferrari rookie, the next you might find yourself sharing the room with Lewis Hamilton or Leclerc himself, quietly enjoying a plate of tortellini.

These encounters are more than celebrity moments — they’re living proof of the restaurant’s role as a crossroads between sport, passion, and tradition.

Pair that with a glass of Lambrusco wine, and you have the perfect balance of speed and slow food — a rare and beautiful combination.

Modena on your plate: Ristorante Montana's menu

At Montana, the menu is a celebration of Modena’s culinary identity.
Starters often include local cured meats and cheeses that set the tone for what’s to come, with occasional seasonal specials that showcase the freshest produce.

Pasta, of course, is the star.

The tortellini are delicate, perfectly folded parcels — sometimes served in a fragrant capon broth, other times enriched with a cream sauce.
Tagliatelle al ragù embodies the soul of Emilia-Romagna: rich, hearty, and deeply satisfying.
And then there’s Gramigna with sausage, a rustic pasta dish that’s both comforting and full of character.

The main courses focus on quality cuts and traditional preparations.
Tender roast veal, aromatic sliced beef with rosemary, and juicy baked spare ribs are regular favorites, often accompanied by roasted potatoes or seasonal vegetables.

For dessert, you might find the classic Tiramisù, the layered Zuppa Inglese, or the indulgent Dolce Mattone.

The exact offerings change with the seasons, and diners are encouraged to ask about off-menu specials — a way to taste something unique and fresh on every visit.

How to make the most of your visit

A visit to Ristorante Montana can be the highlight of a trip to Emilia-Romagna — especially if you plan it well.

• Book in advance: It’s a favorite for locals, tourists, and Ferrari team members.

• Go hungry: The portions are generous, and you’ll want to try both pasta and mains.

• Ask about seasonal specials: Some of the best dishes aren’t on the printed menu.

• Make it part of a bigger day: Combine your meal with a visit to the Modena Ferrari museum.

Final thoughts

From its humble beginnings in 1967 to its present-day fame, Ristorante Montana has remained faithful to what truly matters: heartfelt hospitality, respect for tradition, and a passion for great food.

Whether you come for the Ferrari connection, the handmade pasta, or simply the joy of a meal cooked with love, you’ll leave with a memory that tastes as good as it feels.

But why stop there?

Dive deeper into local flavors with a Modena food tour — a journey that will take you behind the scenes to discover Emilia-Romagna’s most treasured culinary secrets, from aged balsamic vinegar to artisan cheese.

Book your table at Montana, then book your spot on the tour: together, they create the ultimate Modenese experience.