Da Fellini

The story

Da Fellini’s Authentic Italian Cooking in Antwerpen | wattafork

The Family Behind the Stove

Da Fellini in Antwerpen anchors its Italian cooking around recipes passed down from Ivan Di Rose and his brother Emiliano. They bring their native Calabrian flavors directly to the Belgian table. Gault&Millau recognized this grounded approach last cycle, praising the Italian kitchen that prioritizes comfort over unnecessary polish. The brothers keep preparations honest, letting regional produce carry the weight of every plate.

Plates Rooted in Tradition

Visitors consistently order the vitello tonnato, where sliced veal meets a creamy anchovy and lemon binder. This Italian kitchen also braises beef cheeks slowly in Barolo until they fracture easily against a fork. Orecchiette arrives coated in crushed Tuscan sausage and sun dried tomatoes, while whole sea bass bakes skin side down beside a sharp citrus reduction. Sweet finishes feature pistachio filled cannoli and dark chocolate tortes dotted with Amarena cherries.

Warmth at the Table

Service revolves around the Dutch concept of samen genieten, focusing meals on relaxed family gatherings rather than rigid timing. Holiday menus let guests alternate between two chef selected courses for each traditional Italian fare. A dedicated sommelier pairs those selections with house curated Soave whites and Umbria reds. Compact outdoor seating stays smoke free to protect conversation, leaving the indoor space entirely for shared plates and quiet evenings.