"The Scalinata has been in our lives for thirty plus years. It has wonderful memories. This typical grotto has been run by the Balemi family ever since I 've know it and some more. Today Livia and Marina supervise its running. I would say it has had a few tough years recently adjusting to a changing world, age catching up with the sisters and keeping up the standards. With renewed help from two Chefs it has emerged back as offering good food. As we were a party of three we each chose something different, partly to test, partly to remember and compare. They all came up good. We had a portion of Coniglio (rabbit), Brasato (pot roast) and Vitello (veal) Spezzatino con piselli (Veal stew and peas), with Polenta- all very healthy portions- part of what I have always loved about the Scalinata. As you used to arrive into the parking area of the Scalinata you were always greeted by a thriving, bulging vegetable garden, but sadly no more. Thankfully their vineyards are still around and provide the local table wine to go with the meal The big change has been in the Menu, a little more 'fancy ', a pushing up of the prices that make you look a little more critically at the end result but our return after a few years came up well. The challenge for the Scalinata is to rebuild its former position as a Grotto that really stood out. A tough road for a family that does not have the infusion of the next Balemi generation taking over. For both Livia and Marina who have the Scalinata running through their veins you still see life commitment, love and devotion. With the combination of the two Chefs of Chris Gottraux and the recent infusion of Waldis Ratti there will be this continued loosening of the old, adjusting to the changing time and seeking out a middle way. I hope it continues to return to that former position for me- a absolute must to go place each year at different times. It is on its way thankfully."
