The story
Ai Lares occupies a converted barracks at 1,400 meters above Auronzo, where the stone walls now frame a focused Italian country cooking program. The kitchen prioritizes local sourcing and straightforward techniques that let regional ingredients speak clearly. This dedication to honest preparation earned the establishment a 2026 Faccino Contento + rating from ilGolosario.
Hearty regional staples dominate the seasonal menu, reflecting a practiced approach to Alpine country cooking. Diners usually begin with the antipasto del bosco, which combines foraged wild mushrooms with house-cured meats. Large bread dumplings arrive beside a melted cheese fondue, while slow-cooked goulash settles over thick polenta rounds.
Wooden tables rest under dense canopy shade, creating a sheltered spot for travelers finishing long ridge hikes. Staff serve local grappas and valley wines directly from glass bottles, matching the unpretentious style of rural country cooking. The building preserves its original structural layout, allowing natural timber and stone surfaces to guide the pacing of the meal.
Recognition
Location