Italy – Gintonego and fish in Grado
Grado, the sunny island town on Italy’s Adriatic Sea, exudes a relaxed elegance that instantly puts you in the holiday mood. With its historic center full of narrow streets, Roman remains, and Venetian influences, Grado feels intimate and authentic. The sea is never far away: you can smell the salty water everywhere and hear it gently lapping against the quay, while fishing boats bob peacefully.
Besides culture, Grado is known for its beach life and slow pace. The expansive beaches and thermal baths have attracted visitors for decades, seeking peace and well-being. Around midday and evening, life shifts to the squares and promenades, where locals and travelers gather for an aperitif and end the day with delicious food, preferably fish caught that very morning.
A fixture in this culinary landscape is Trattoria de Toni, a beloved fish restaurant known for its pure cuisine and warm hospitality. No complicated frills here, but dishes that showcase the quality of the ingredients. The atmosphere is relaxed and typically Italian: pleasant tables, the buzz of conversation, and the aroma of seafood wafting from the kitchen.
A few classics immediately catch the eye on the menu. The Antipasto Gratinato al Forno is a perfect starter: a gratinated selection of fish and shellfish, rich in flavor and perfectly prepared. Several fish dishes follow, but a must-try is the Spaghetti alle Vongole, simple yet refined, with clams bursting with the sea and pasta that embraces every drop of sauce. Finish with a homemade tart, small in size but big in flavor, a sweet finale prepared with care and love. In this case, a delicious strawberry tart.
A special feature of Trattoria de Toni is also the son’s own gin: Gintonego. This homemade gin is an ode to the region and is distilled with various local botanicals. Think of herbs and plants you’ll also find in and around Grado, such as juniper, coriander, and angelica. This gives the gin a distinct yet refined character that perfectly complements its maritime surroundings.
Gintonego is often served neat or in a simple gin and tonic, allowing the local aromas to fully express themselves. It’s more than just a drink. It tells a story of place, tradition, and craftsmanship. Just like the dishes from Trattoria de Toni, this gin is a tasteful reminder of Grado: sun-drenched, unique, and inextricably linked to the sea.
