In Bassano del Grappa, the 18th-century Palazzo Fracca hosts the world of La 5Essenza composed on the ground floor of a bistro and wine bar and in the frescoed main floor of a cultural hub hosting exhibitions and private parties.
Paola and Ada Rizzello and her husband Stefano Zen returned home to Bassano del Grappa after more than 30 years in the United States, where they had significant experiences, from the Pelican to Casa Tua, from Soho House to Dylan’s Candy Bar (owned by Dylan Lauren, Ralph Lauren’s daughter).
In the vibrant Venetian town, they were looking for a place where they could create a cosmopolitan home, dedicated to all their passions: good food, first and foremost, but also wine, spirits, and art. Their encounter with Palazzo Fracca, one of the most beautiful corners of Bassano, was love at first sight, and the name itself, with its profound resonance, made them realize it was the right place to open their business.
We wanted La 5Essenza to be a place where you can feel at home, a space without limits for creativity.
(Ada, Paola and Stefano)
The recently restored Palazzo offers a unique experience where history, culture, and flavors intertwine in a magical atmosphere: the ground floor houses the bistro, Chef Stefano’s domain, while the refined main floor houses the cultural hub, divided into three rooms hosting exhibitions and parties.
The charm of the frescoed ceilings, wooden floors, and antique fireplace, reminiscent of a glorious past, is complemented by a giant LED screen for projections and a state-of-the-art audio and video system, perfect for any type of event.
La 5Essenza is ideal at any time of day, from a quick lunch break to an aperitif, all the way to dinner, where Ada always welcomes you with a smile.
Stefano, drawing on his extensive international experience, presents a creative cuisine that reinterprets the local flavours, based on quality ingredients sourced from carefully selected suppliers, wineries, and artisanal businesses, which is also reflected in the refined drinks menu.
The menu is perfect for pairing with a glass of wine and includes tapas, cold meat platters, and focaccias, as well as delicious dishes like crostone with whipped ricotta, porcini mushrooms, and truffle honey, eggplant parmigiana, classic Chianina beef tartare, or pork cheeks braised in red wine.
L 5Essenza is one of those always welcoming places, a key player in the social and cultural life of Bassano del Grappa, whether you’re looking for a fine wine, an art exhibit, or a celebration.
The Secret
By coincidence, Stefano, once back in Bassano del Grappa, learned about the location by chance thanks to a friend who had been the interior designer for the renovation of Palazzo Fracca.
Useful Info
La 5Essenza
Via Giacomo Matteotti 3
36061 Bassano del Grappa
Tel. +39 0424 1958101
Glass of wine: from 4 euro
Dishes: from 12 euro
Tapas: from 2,5 euro
