Inspired by UNESCO Recognition of Italian Cuisine, Cape of Senses Celebrates a New Era of Italian Dining

Following UNESCO’s historic recognition of Italian cooking traditions as Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity in December 2025, Cape of Senses on Lake Garda is entering a new era of Italian dining with the appointments of Resident Chef Gioele Grienti and Sous Chef Michele Rizzi. 

For Cape of Senses, the luxury five-star adults-only retreat, this recognition, alongside the new appointments, reflects a philosophy already deeply embedded within the hotel’s culinary identity: authentic Italian cuisine rooted in territory, seasonality and craftsmanship. Together with Restaurant Manager Gianfranco Csorba, the culinary team brings a shared vision focused on elevated hospitality, regional authenticity and emotionally resonant dining experiences inspired by the surrounding Veneto landscape.

“The recognition of Italian cuisine as UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage significantly raises expectations among international guests,” say Grienti and Rizzi. “Guests increasingly seek cuisine that tells a story, where heritage, craftsmanship and contemporary creativity coexist harmoniously.”

A Culinary Identity Rooted in Lake Garda and Veneto

At Cape of Senses, this philosophy comes to life through cuisine deeply connected to Lake Garda and the Veneto region. A signature example is the hotel’s dish “Mosaic”, a refined composition of lake fish and seasonal vegetables designed to express balance, precision and harmony between tradition and innovation.

Local ingredients also remain central to the hotel’s culinary identity, with menus highlighting asparagus, Veneto radicchio varieties, Garronese Veneta beef, Garda olive oil, local herbs and seasonal vegetables sourced through close relationships with regional producers.

Two Restaurant Concepts, One Philosophy

Cape of Senses expresses its gastronomic vision through two distinct restaurant concepts. La Pergola, the hotel’s osteria-style restaurant, celebrates traditional Italian recipes and comforting flavours inspired by home cooking, while Al Tramonto offers a more refined and creative interpretation of Italian cuisine through a modern dining perspective.

“In both concepts, seasonality, lightness and clarity of flavour remain central, together with a strong and authentic connection to Lake Garda and the Veneto,” says Csorba.

The Culinary Team Behind the Vision

Leading Cape of Senses’ evolving culinary direction are newly appointed Resident Chef Gioele Grienti and Sous Chef Michele Rizzi, whose combined experience includes Michelin-recognised restaurants such as Hotel Cipriani’s Oro Restaurant in Venice and Ristorante Quadri by the Alajmo Group.

“Throughout our professional journey, we have learned to value and respect ingredients, with the goal of creating a guest experience that goes beyond simply serving a meal,” say the chefs.

Located in Torri del Benaco on Lake Garda, Cape of Senses is a five-star adults-only luxury retreat focused on wellness, design, gastronomy and authentic Italian hospitality, offering immersive experiences connected to the surrounding Veneto landscape.

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Editors notes

Cape of Senses imagery can be found here. 

About Cape of Senses

Cape of Senses is a five-star, adults-only spa hideaway situated 240 metres above Lake Garda overlooking the picturesque village of Torri del Benaco. Offering spectacular views and year-round relaxation and regeneration, Cape of Senses encourages guests to slow down and reconnect with their senses in nature. Designed by architects Hugo and Alessia Demetz, the hotel is etched into the hillside to create a seamless integration with the surrounding landscape, whilst the curved structure allows for panoramic lake views and unrivalled sunsets. The family-owned property features 55 suites with six suite options, where guests can expect spacious rooms with sophisticated, minimalist design and modern details. Creating a connection with the outdoors, floor-to-ceiling glass windows bring the Mediterranean scenery inside, complimented by soft colour palettes, warm lighting and contemporary, handcrafted furnishings.   

The 2,000sqm Lùmea Spa offers a holistic spa concept with an extensive range of facilities and treatments that use natural, sustainably sourced products. It is complete with an indoor-outdoor infinity pool, a second heated outdoor pool, saunas, steam rooms, a fitness area, treatment rooms and relaxation rooms. Guests can also enjoy the spa library or spa garden which includes a yoga platform. There is a choice of two restaurants, the Osteria La Pergola and lake-view Al Tramonto (translating to ‘at sunset’), named to pay homage to its privileged position on the lake. Guests can also enjoy breakfast at the rooftop terrace or in their own private suites, plus the lounge Il Bar and bistro serve light refreshments. The lake hideaway offers an extensive range of year-round, on-site activities and local experiences, available to book through the hotel’s concierge service. Cape of Senses was awarded a Michelin Key consecutively in 2024 and 2025, recognising it as one of the world’s most outstanding hotels. 

For more information on Cape of Senses, please visit: https://www.capeofsenses.com/en/   

Prices & Transport:  

1. Prices: from 470€ per night for 2 people including breakfast (approx. £416)  
2. Nearest Airport: Verona, 41km from Cape of Senses  
3. Nearest Train Station: Peschiera del Garda, 22.3km from Cape of Senses  
4. Nearest Ferry Port: Torri del Benaco, 4.6km from Cape of Senses (Lake Garda only)