Le Calandre

About

Le Calandre, located in the tranquil village of Sarmeola di Rubano just 6 kilometres from Padua, is a culinary landmark that has consistently challenged culinary conventions since its opening in 1981. Run by siblings Massimiliano and Raffaele Alajmo, the restaurant earned its first Michelin star in 1992 and achieved the coveted third star in 2002, making Massimiliano the youngest three‑star chef in history. The menu is divided into three tasting routes – Classic, Max, and Raf – each seasonally re‑interpreted, allowing diners to experience a curated journey through the “accademia” of flavors that define contemporary Italian cuisine. The restaurant’s philosophy embraces lightness, depth, and respect for seasonal ingredients; Max Alajmo’s kitchens are famed for their meticulous technique and playful refinements such as saffron risotto with licorice dust and squid cappuccino. Beyond the Table, Le Calandre is part of the larger Alajmo Group, which offers a boutique selection of wines, artisanal products, and dedicated events. Visitors can book an evening through the group’s online portal, where the restaurant is available for dinner‑only reservations on Tuesdays (8 pm–10 pm) and Monday‑Friday (12 pm–2 pm and 8 pm–10 pm) and Tuesday‑Saturday (8 pm–10 pm), with limited daytime service on Wednesday‑Saturday. The modern interior, designed by the Alajmo brothers with local artisans, provides a quiet and sophisticated atmosphere that invites diners to explore the culinary exploration in every dish.

At a glance

• Verified listing
• Typical visit: about 1 hour