There are places where history and modernity meet in silent harmony, where architecture and flavour become a single expression of beauty. “Piazza della Riforma”, the beating heart of Lugano, has long been one such place, a symbol of refinement, elegance, and conviviality. Today, it welcomes a new chapter in its illustrious story with the opening of Federale 1855 and Ristorante META, two dining destinations that embody the city’s evolving soul.
Born from the meticulous restoration of one of Lugano’s most distinguished historic buildings, the project breathes new life into the porticoes that have witnessed centuries of encounters and conversation. These two restaurants, distinct in style yet united by vision, elevate the concept of hospitality to a new dimension, one rooted in authenticity, creativity, and timeless taste.
Upstairs, Ristorante META unveils a very different world, one of haute cuisine and quiet refinement. The rooms, designed to recall a gracious Lugano salon, exude intimacy and calm. Every element has been conceived to nurture a sense of belonging and well-being, while the culinary experience itself becomes a true journey through taste and beauty.
Federale 1855, with its outdoor tables and its elegantly appointed interiors across two floors, evokes an atmosphere of understated sophistication. Its aesthetic, contemporary yet warm, mirrors the philosophy of its cuisine: dishes that draw inspiration from local and Mediterranean traditions, guided by simplicity, freshness, and genuine flavour. It is a place designed for every moment of the day, from a leisurely lunch to an evening of shared pleasure.
For Mario Mantegazza, the visionary behind both restaurants, this opening is more than a business milestone; it is a personal evolution. “This inauguration,” he explains, “marks a new chapter in a journey that began in 2009, when we first entered the world of gastronomy in Paradiso. Over the years, Ristorante META has lived a thrilling adventure, creating a cuisine that is healthy, genuine, and open to international influences. Our ongoing pursuit of excellence has been recognised by Gault&Millau and 50 Top Italy, culminating in our first Michelin Star. Now, with these new, modern, and perfectly equipped spaces, we can look toward ever more ambitious goals.”
The culinary direction of both venues is entrusted to Chef Arturo Fragnito, whose philosophy celebrates Mediterranean authenticity enriched by global inspiration. “At the core of my cooking,” he explains, “is the acceptance of Mediterranean principles, fresh, genuine ingredients and simplicity in preparation. On these foundations, I like to layer influences from my experiences abroad, where I encountered some of the world’s greatest cuisines. At Federale 1855, every dish will be cooked to order. For META, we have designed a gastronomic journey capable of both surprising and captivating through flavour and aesthetics. The Tasting Menu will represent the essence of my culinary philosophy.”
To bring these concepts to life, the MarMant Group has been established, gathering under one symbolic “M” the entire universe of Mantegazza’s gastronomic ventures: from the Bistrot of Palazzo Mantegazza to Federale 1855 and Ristorante META. It is a project animated by youth and energy. Evelyn Mantegazza serves as manager, Chiara Mantegazza oversees marketing and communication, and Marco Rossi leads as director. Together, they embody a dynamic new generation of hospitality professionals who see the restaurant not merely as a place to dine, but as a stage for experience, a meeting point where tradition embraces innovation, and excellence feels effortless.
Looking ahead, Mario Mantegazza envisions a broader contribution to Lugano’s cultural life: “With the opening of Federale 1855 and Ristorante META,” he notes, “I believe we can help shape a new culture of hospitality, one that offers a more fulfilling way of living the city’s spaces. We wish to embrace innovation and the future without ever forgetting our traditions and values. In a Piazza della Riforma that is increasingly vibrant and welcoming, we want to gift citizens and visitors alike the joy of those small, beautiful things that hold immense meaning.”
We can definitely say that today, in Lugano, two restaurants have become pure culinary destinations; a reflection of a city that continues to evolve with grace. Federale 1855 and META do not merely serve exquisite food; they invite their guests to rediscover the pleasure of the moment, and the enduring elegance of shared experience.
Discover more @ https://metarestaurant.ch
Photo Credits: Lucrezia Roda
Article edited by Massimo Basile
Editor & Founder