Satricum: A Restaurant's Whimsical Culinary Journey with Pinocchio

Posted by Rowena Dumlao Rowena Dumlao - Giardina 1/28/2025

Satricum: A Restaurant's Whimsical Culinary Journey with Pinocchio

First came Alice in Wonderland, and now it’s Pinocchio, a natural continuation of Satricum’s signature blend of creativity, whimsy, and flavor. Dining here is an immersive experience, where Chef Max Cotilli wields his culinary ingenuity to craft exceptional dishes that are as imaginative as they are delicious. Complementing his artistry is Sonia Tomaselli, whose expertise in wine pairing and her warm, professional hospitality elevate every meal into an unforgettable journey.

At Satricum in Le Ferriere, Max and Sonia once again push the boundaries of fine dining with their latest themed menu inspired by Carlo Collodi’s The Adventures of Pinocchio. Following the resounding success of last year’s Alice in Wonderland menu, this new creation delves into the allegories and wisdom of Collodi’s timeless tale. For Max, this menu is deeply personal: “It’s about navigating life’s obstacles, finding joy in simplicity, and staying true to oneself—both in life and in the kitchen.”

Pinocchio Through Art: Leo Mattioli’s Legacy at Satricvm

Satricum proudly collaborates with Giovanni Mattioli, son of the late Florentine illustrator Leo Mattioli (1928–1999), to bring the artist’s timeless interpretation of Pinocchio to life. The exhibition features 20 original illustrations, created between 1953 and 1954 for a Vallecchi Editore publication of Carlo Collodi’s masterpiece.

Leo Mattioli’s work offers a fresh and modern perspective on Pinocchio, drawing inspiration from Futurism, Cubism, and the geometric stylings of Fortunato Depero. His compositions, dominated by soft tones of blue, orange, ochre, and brown, evoke the rustic charm of Tuscany, with a focus on artisan and rural life. These poetic and almost metaphysical works capture the essence of Collodi’s world in an entirely unique way.

C’Era Una Volta Un Pezzo Di Legno: Mastrociliegia Nocerino cheese and cherries, Geppetto — Panforte with fennel salami, Pino Bianco — Mushrooms and chestnuts

Ragazzino Per Bene: Seed cantucci | Vin santo

As part of the collaboration, panels featuring additional illustrations by Giovanni Mattioli will remain on display at Satricum, enriching the restaurant’s atmosphere and adding a visual narrative to its new Pinocchio-inspired menu. This partnership beautifully intertwines art, storytelling, and culinary innovation, creating a memorable homage to Collodi’s enduring tale.

Nella Pancia Del Pesce-Cane: Chianti-style tuna | Rabbit | Garum

Campo Dei Miracoli: Chestnut cake | Laura Peri pigeon

The Pinocchio Menu

The Pinocchio menu, available until spring 2025, is a seasonal showcase of the finest ingredients, designed to bring Collodi's timeless tale to life. Diners can select from an à la carte menu (single dishes €26, desserts €15) or opt for two thoughtfully curated tasting options: “Piccole Bugie” (Small Lies) with five courses (€70, or €100 with wine pairings, water, and coffee) and “Tutta la Verità” (The Whole Truth) with eight courses (€90, or €130 with wine pairings, water, and coffee).

Grillo Parlante: Spherified ribollita | Mantis shrimp extract | Tuscan black kale

All’Osteria Del Gambero Rosso: Livornese-style red mullet

Every dish is an imaginative nod to the whimsical world of Pinocchio. Standout creations include spaghetti with lupini clams and orange zest, turned blue with spirulina in homage to the Blue Fairy, and Livornese-style red mullet, inspired by the Red Lobster Inn. The menu balances culinary artistry with storytelling, guiding diners through a journey of transformation, creativity, and discovery, much like the beloved tale it celebrates.

Fata Turchina: Spaghettone with aglione | Lupini clams | Mélange from the Tyrrhenian Sea

The Restaurant

Located in Le Ferriere, in the heart of the province of Latina, Satricum is the creation of Maximiliano Cotilli and Sonia Tomaselli, a husband and wife duo dedicated to redefining fine dining in the Agro Pontino. The restaurant is housed in a beautifully restored 1960s villa, surrounded by an elegant Oriental-inspired garden. Inside, the minimalist design blends slate, wood, and iron, creating a warm and inviting space that harmonizes with the natural surroundings.

Satricum’s cuisine is deeply rooted in the rich cultural history of Agro Pontino, shaped by the diverse influences of settlers who arrived during the land reclamation period. Chef Cotilli’s dishes reflect this heritage, highlighting the region’s biodiversity through seasonal, locally-sourced ingredients from small-scale farmers and fishermen. Complementing his culinary creations, Sonia Tomaselli, a skilled sommelier, curates an impressive selection of biodynamic wines, rare labels, craft beers, and cocktails. Together, they deliver a dining experience that seamlessly weaves tradition with modern innovation, making Satricum a true culinary destination.