Washington Restaurant Guide

At Spezie, which means " spices" in Italian, Chefs/ partners Enzo Livia and Cesare Lanfranconi collaborate to present seasonal menus featuring modern interpretations of rustic Italian cuisine. Capturing the essence of Italian cooking, which is the perfect blend of seasonings our chefs use to prepare creative takes on regional dishes using house made pastas, fresh locally-source produce and high quality ingredients only found in Italy; Spezie offers an unusual blend of the old and new in its menu and its ambience. Visually alluring maps of the ancient spice routes are artfully displayed throughout the restaurant that combines a sophisticated and elegant decor with a comfortable, spacious and welcoming setting. Furnished in earth tones, the softly lit wall sconces decorated with pressed herbs and spices add the perfect touch.

Cesare LanfranconiExecutive Chef/Partner, SpezieGrowing up in Lecco, Italy, a small town located in the magnificent Lake Como region, Cesare Lanfranconi developed a great appreciation for farming. "Every household raised their own chickens, and grew vegetables on small plots of land. We would make our meals with what we got from neighboring farms," said Cesare, who is now executive chef/partner at Spezie Ristorante.