Design

Herb

On the wonderful medieval walls of Cittadella, a bistro and cocktail bar with a botanical soul

by Lavinia Colonna Preti
Herb (PD) — Veneto Secrets

Herb is a tasteful oasis located within a truly extraordinary location: the fortified walls of Cittadella, the only medieval walled city in Europe to be completely walkable, at a panoramic height of 15 meters, allowing for a stroll with breathtaking views.

Herb is a captivating project born from the dream of its owners, Federica and Michele, to combine history and contemporary design to create a charming atmosphere where gourmet cuisine and a passion for botany blend with great originality.

Aromatic plants, flowers, and essential oils, in addition to being the focus of the restaurant’s design, are also part of the delicious menu that changes every three months based on the season’s first fruits.

Herb (PD) — Veneto Secrets

The décor is truly spectacular, entrusted to the talent of flower designer Elisa Vanin, aka Anneris, who creates constantly changing themed bouquets. The interiors, designed by Castelfranco-based Change studio, are a mix of natural materials, industrial touches, and handcrafted pieces like the beautiful wrought-iron chairs from Morocco.

The stunning panoramic terrace, open from March to October, allows you to dine or sip a cocktail en plein air while enjoying a romantic view of the majestic fortified walls.

Herb (PD) — Veneto Secrets

All the products used in the kitchen are strictly local, carefully selected to respect the rhythms of nature and strive for the highest quality. The menu is varied and everything is prepared fresh every morning: from the unique dishes, characterized by Herb’s green spirit, which uses green essences to enhance flavors, aromas, and colors, to the gourmet pizzas, and the meat, fish, and vegetable recipes that vary depending on the season and ingredient availability.

Thyme, rosemary, marjoram, sage, and a thousand other spices and herbs characterize the flavorful breads, made with stone-ground Petra whole wheat flour, as well as the unique selection of beers and wines, as well as the refreshing drinks prepared in the beautiful cocktail bar.

More than a restaurant, it’s a unique experience to try at least once in your life, before or after the unmissable circular walk of the medieval walls surrounding the city.

The Secret

In Cittadella, it is said that in the 70ies under Herb there was a very special garage where the precious historic cars of local collectors were kept. Following the disastrous collapse of the structure, the cars were buried under the rubble where today it seems that they still lay, included a mythical Citroen Mehari and other wonders.

Useful Info

Herb
Via Porte Bassanesi 3
35013 Cittadella, Padova
Tel. +39 049 5979474

Appetizers: €14–€17
First courses: €14–€17
Second courses: €17–€22
Pizzas: from €9

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