Just steps away from the legendary Ferrari headquarters in Maranello sits Ristorante Cavallino, a restaurant steeped in automotive history and culinary innovation. Originally established in 1950 as a modest canteen for factory workers, the space has undergone a luxurious transformation, thanks to the creative collaboration between Michelin-starred chef Massimo Bottura and celebrated architect-designer India Mahdavi. Today, Cavallino stands as a living homage to Enzo Ferrari, and also the world’s first Ferrari-themed restaurant. Here’s all you need to know about it.
Situated strategically between the Ferrari production facility, the Gestione Sportiva racing division, and the marque’s new flagship store, Cavallino offers more than just a meal. A sensory journey into Ferrari’s past, everything at this restaurant is thoughtfully designed to remind you of the luxury car brand. The interiors, expansive garden, and al fresco terrace are thoughtfully adorned with rare artefacts and memorabilia from the company’s archives, thus allowing visitors to experience an intimate slice of the brand’s heritage.
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The restaurant is situated inside an old farmhouse which was once purchased by Enzo Ferrari himself. The land on which it stands has since evolved into the heart of Ferrari’s operations.
The original canteen, frequented by employees, drivers, and even motorsport greats like Bernie Ecclestone and Jean-Marie Balestre, became a full-service restaurant in the early ’50s. It now houses the refined menu of chef Riccardo Forapani, a protege of Bottura, who leads the kitchen with creative precision.
According to Tripadvisor reviews, diners can expect reimagined versions of regional classics. Standouts include the tortellini del Tortellante, a handmade dish rooted in local tradition, and the Mòdna, a modern reinterpretation of a Sacher cake crafted with sour cherries. The wine list is thoughtfully curated, featuring a range of selections by the glass.
The dining spaces inside Ristorante Cavallino
Inside the main dining room, the walls are covered in Prancing Horse-patterned wallpaper, pixelated for modern artistry. The terracotta tile flooring in red and ivory reminds you of the classic trattoria tablecloths, while vaulted ceilings and arched interiors offer a sense of spatial drama. Oak panelling, yellow leather seating, and tables dressed in natural linen lend a warm, inviting tone. The visual elements here are mostly from Ferrari’s archives — from oversized images of Scuderia yearbooks to a mounted front wing from Charles Leclerc’s 2019 Monza-winning car.
Next is The Grill Room, tucked between the primary hall and the garden. This room is to introduce a sense of theatre to the dining experience. With open grilles lining the wall, guests are invited to watch the kitchen in action. Beyond its windows is a Mediterranean-style courtyard with lush seasonal herbs, flowering plants, and greenery under the shelter of a classic pergola. The setting changes beautifully with the seasons, making each visit distinct.
On the upper level, there are two private dining rooms for an immersive, exclusive experience. These spaces are designed to reflect the soul of Ferrari — one inspired by the world of racing, the other by grand touring. From vintage engineering sketches to Ascari’s trophy from the 1952 Monza Grand Prix, each element has been curated to pay tribute to Ferrari’s unparalleled legacy.
At Ristorante Cavallino, world’s first Ferrari-themed restaurant, history and food meet in a setting that celebrates craftsmanship, speed, and the spirit of Ferrari.
