Zurich has a new destination for lovers of Italian Alta Cucina: «Il Tartufo», located near the Rietberg Museum, is the first independent venture by Federico Finessi.

Already known as a hidden gem from his time as head chef at «Rigiblick» on Lake Zug and later at «Puro» on Fraumünsterstrasse, Finessi now unveils his personal vision of Italian culinary artistry as both chef and host.

A Room With Character

The stage is as elegant as it is inviting: high ceilings, a harmonious mix of cream and brown tones, plenty of light, and classic stucco details. Despite its sophistication, the setting remains understated – a comfortable backdrop for precise, confident cooking.

Even the amuse-bouche, a savory profiterole filled with warm Parmesan cream, reveals a kitchen committed to product quality and meticulous technique.

Currently a menu highlight: Tagliolini al Tartufo. (Image: supplied)

Roots and Substance

Finessi is a graduate of the prestigious ALMA culinary academy near Parma, where he absorbed the philosophy of Italian haute cuisine: using the finest ingredients, prepared with care – without fuss or pretense.

This spirit is immediately tangible at «Il Tartufo». Classics such as «Tagliolini al Tartufo» or a ten-hour braised «Brasato al Barolo» transport diners straight into the cultivated traditions of northern Italy.

A Creative Touch

Yet Finessi is not content to stay within tradition. One standout is the black toothfish – among the world’s most prized and sustainably sourced species. At «Il Tartufo», it arrives with almond sauce, basil, and a hint of vanilla-lemon – so finely composed and precisely cooked that one might be tempted to order it twice.

Seafood, unsurprisingly, is a house strength: Finessi grew up near Venice in a family of fishmongers.

Served with almond sauce, basil, and vanilla-lemon: Finessi’s toothfish creation. (Image: supplied)

Fine Value for Money

Despite its ambition, «Il Tartufo» remains accessibly priced. Lunch menus range from 30 to 40 francs – well within Zurich’s upscale business lunch bracket, an offer that’s likely to resonate with the area’s insurance and financial professionals.

With «Il Tartufo», the city’s classic Italian dining scene gains a welcome new contender – alongside establishments like «Ornellaia», where Finessi once began his Swiss career, and «La Zagra» near Tiefenbrunnen station. It’s certainly not just another Italian restaurant, but a fine-dining venue with individuality, depth, and uncompromising quality.

Restaurant «Il Tartufo», Lavaterstrasse 87, 8002 Zurich – open Monday to Saturday, for lunch and dinner.

Events:
– November 30, 2025: «Festival del Tartufo e del Piemonte»
– November 27, 2025: «Champagne Dinner»
– December 31, 2025: «Golden Night» New Year’s Eve