La Finestra in Cucina: A Masterclass in Italian Gastronomy
Located in the heart of Prague’s Old Town, just a stone’s throw from the Charles Bridge, La Finestra in Cucina is more than just a restaurant; it is a culinary institution. Opened in 2009 by the visionary Italian chef Riccardo Lucque, it represents the pinnacle of “Italian-born, Prague-perfected” fine dining.
The Concept: “The Window” into the Kitchen
The name La Finestra (The Window) refers to the restaurant’s signature feature: a massive open kitchen where guests can witness the synchronized “dance” of the culinary team. Led by Executive Chef Roman Kintler, the kitchen emphasizes transparency, letting the sizzle of the grill and the aroma of fresh herbs serve as the evening’s entertainment.
The Culinary Focus: Aged Meats & Adriatic Treasures
While many Italian restaurants focus on pasta, La Finestra has carved a niche as a premier Italian Meat Specialist.
Dry-Aged Beef: They source organic, grass-fed beef from top-tier farms in Italy (specifically the Marche region), Spain, and the USA. These cuts are dry-aged in-house to achieve a depth of flavor and tenderness rarely found in Central Europe.
Seafood: Freshness is non-negotiable. Seafood is flown in three times a week directly from the Adriatic coast, ensuring the Branzino and Calamari taste as if they were prepared on a Venetian pier.
The Atmosphere: Refined Rusticity
The interior strikes a perfect balance between high-end elegance and rustic warmth. Think exposed red brick vaulted ceilings, dark wood floors, and soft lighting. For those seeking privacy or a deeper dive into oenology, the restaurant features a massive underground wine cellar one of the largest collections of natural Italian wines in the Czech Republic available for private tastings and corporate events.