Longiano’s Culinary Gem: A Journey Through Time and Taste

Nestled amidst the picturesque Cesena hills, a haven for cyclists and gourmands alike, lies Longiano. Our culinary explorers, Marcella and Christian, recently visited the Ristorante Dei Cantoni, and their report is a delightful journey through history and flavor. Longiano itself is a captivating glimpse into the past; from its formidable fortress, once a bulwark against barbarian invasions and later a battleground between Rimini and Cesena, to its enduring legacy as a center of traditional craftsmanship and cuisine. This charming village, awarded the prestigious Orange Flag by the Touring Club for its environmental and tourist appeal, exudes a timeless elegance. The restaurant’s name, “I Cantoni,” reflects its humble origins in the medieval town’s poorer quarter. The approach, a picturesque stroll through cobblestone streets, leads to a parking area overlooking the rolling hills and elegant, understated buildings—a testament to enduring style. Seasonal festive decorations, like a majestic Christmas tree adorned with white ornaments, greet visitors, surrounded by local artisan crafts and inviting displays of regional wines.

Established in 1988 by Danilo and Teresa, the Ristorante Dei Cantoni exudes warmth, regional pride, and tradition. The ambiance, from the furnishings to the table settings, mirrors the understated elegance of the proprietors and the village itself. Water glasses evoke cherished heirlooms, and linens recall the artistry of local craftswomen. Teresa’s welcoming smile, her French-tinged greeting, and the graciousness of her staff contribute significantly to the restaurant’s welcoming atmosphere. A glance at the menu reveals the exceptional quality and diversity of ingredients. Seasonal delights abound – baccalà (salt cod), pumpkin, artichokes, truffles, and porcini mushrooms, alongside house-made pasta and piadina (flatbread), including a wholewheat version, all prepared daily using natural sourdough and stone-ground organic flour from the Molino Ronci di Pennabilli mill.

The appetizers are a delightful prelude, whether you opt for land or sea-inspired hors d’oeuvres. The carpaccio of Romagna beef, paired with porcini mushrooms and summer truffle, is a testament to the quality of locally sourced, carefully raised meat – a visually stunning and flavorful dish. For seafood lovers, the fried baccalà fritters with tartar sauce or the creamy baccalà served over roasted polenta offer a delectable blend of land and sea. The cappellacci pasta, filled with rustic herbs and served with a porcini mushroom sauce, is a testament to simple perfection – striking a balance between intense and understated flavors. The meal is expertly complemented by the restaurant’s house red wine or craft beer.

Conversation with Teresa reveals a profound respect for tradition, the authenticity of ingredients, and the passion that drove her and her husband to create this culinary haven. Their success is a testament to word-of-mouth referrals from loyal patrons. Yet, they prefer to let the food and the ambiance speak for themselves. The building itself holds a rich history, once part of the estate of Don Baronio, a wealthy man who renounced his possessions to aid the less fortunate, a story that adds a poignant and fascinating layer to the dining experience.

The main courses are equally impressive, highlighting the region’s culinary heritage. The medallions of purebred Romagna pork, wrapped in pancetta and bay leaf, grilled to perfection, and served with balsamic shallot sauce and fresh artichokes, are a highlight. Tender braised greens, such as chicory and chard, complete the dish. This culinary symphony concludes with a dessert, a truly decadent creamy mascarpone in a glass, topped with chantilly cream, almond brittle, and coffee – a rich and unforgettable end to a remarkable meal.

For over 30 years, the Ristorante Dei Cantoni has championed local traditions, creating a cuisine rooted in memory and regional pride – simple yet deeply satisfying, as the owners themselves attest. As you leave, thoughts turn to springtime, when the hillsides are ablaze with color, promising a bounty of seasonal flavors and the fragrant aromas of the countryside. Marcella and Christian. Stay updated on recipes, events, and festivals! SUBSCRIBE TO THE NEWSLETTER