The story
Ciao sits at the crossroads of an Enoteca and a Bistro, offering a genuinely fine Italian cuisine in a warm, refined yet relaxed atmosphere. Located at Place Poelaert 6 in Brussels, the restaurant is part of TheMerode, a private members’ club, but it is open to both members and non-members. The space is designed as a convivial table where Italian gastronomy feels both demanding and accessible, simple and comforting.
Originally from Tuscany, Chef Leonardo Iacometti was shaped by his grandmother’s restaurant and training in starred kitchens. For him, taste is paramount. His cooking centres on authentic, fresh, seasonal ingredients, and he is focused on delivering the most refined and tasty gastronomic experience possible. “Passion and curiosity drive me every day to seek excellence,” he says, describing cooking as an act of love.
The menu evolves with the seasons, inspired by simple, authentic ingredients treated with uncompromising ethics. Ciao’s culinary philosophy is firmly rooted in the Italian tradition of seasonality and ingredient integrity. Whether for a business lunch, a romantic dinner, or a night out with friends, the kitchen offers an ever-changing selection of dishes that highlight the best of what is available. The restaurant’s approach has earned it a Michelin Recommended distinction, a recognition of its consistent quality.
Restaurant manager and sommelier Sonia Capriolo, originally from Piedmont, brings a lifelong passion for wine to the table. She steers clear of technical jargon, preferring to tell stories that bring each bottle to life. The Enoteca offers a wide range of Italian wines, from crisp whites to bold reds and sparkling delights, meticulously selected to complement each dish. Guests can also purchase bottles to take home, extending the Italian dining experience beyond the meal.
Ciao embodies a modern, uninhibited vision of Italian cuisine – one that is both demanding and joyful, and always welcoming.
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