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Day: 31 July 2023

New in Saint Tropez: Noto promises stylish Sicilian cuisine

by: Stephanie Horsman
31/07/2023
noto saint tropez

On the back of a successful venture in Paris, the Annie Famose Group has opened a new Noto in Saint Tropez that is being headed up by a former Four Season chef, Emilio Giangnoni. 

The Annie Famose Group has made an art out of hospitality. With nearly 40 establishments in some of the world’s poshest locations – think Avoriaz, Biarritz, Courchevel, Megève and Saint Barts – the company is a key player in exclusive French catering.   

This summer, the Group is adding a new address to its already prestigious list.  

Noto, situated right in the heart of Saint Tropez, is set to be one of the town’s most sought-after hot spots, and just like its successful sister restaurant in Paris, this French Riviera eatery is serving up stylish Italian cucina, a strong Sicilian vibe and all the charm of la dolce vita. 

The setting is pure bliss, facing the yachts of the port and overlooking the glittering bay, while the interior is inspired by the Italian Mediterranean, with lush baroque fabrics and stylish Italian-designed furniture.   

Sicilian gastronomy 

The cuisine is pure Southern Italy, and the kitchen is being led by former Four Seasons chef Emilio Giangnoni, who has crafted a menu made for sharing and lingering over on long summer afternoons and in balmy evenings.  

Vitello tonnato, Pugliese burrata, sautéed clams and caviar are some of the appetising starters on the menu.   

This can be followed up with a hearty pasta dish, such as tagliolini with truffles or a classic spaghetti with tomatoes and burrata. Freshly caught fish, including roasted sea bream with a fresh Mediterranean-style sauce, features heavily on the menu alongside meat dishes like lamb chops with quintessential herbs and sundried tomatoes. 

“At Noto, I serve an Italian cuisine with a bit of a twist,” says Chef Giagnoni. “One that is generous, modern and favouring local produce. Noto is first and foremost a warm and welcoming cuisine to be shared.”   

For more information about the new restaurant and for reservations, click here. 

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Photo credit: Virginie Garnier / Noto

Summer shutdowns: why do France and Italy all but shut down in August?

by: Stephanie Horsman
31/07/2023
summer shutdowns

It might seem counterproductive to shut up shop when all the tourists come to town, but it’s a tradition that is deep-rooted in this part of the Mediterranean. Monaco Life explains the phenomena of “summer shutdowns”. 

Known colloquially as the “summer shutdowns”, many businesses – large and small – in Southern Europe shutter their doors for the entire month of August. This tradition has long perplexed holidaymakers from other parts of the world, who wonder why, in the midst of such a huge month for tourists, they would close up shop, missing out on potential big financial gains.  

The short answer is habit, but the reality is a bit more involved and has to do with several factors that have evolved and changed with each passing generation. 

WEATHER 

This may surprise many, but one of the primary reasons people in France and Italy shut their doors in August is the heat. Whilst many flock to these countries specifically for the warmth, by the time August rolls around, the heat, coupled with higher humidity, has taken a toll on locals.  

CUSTOM 

There was a time when factories closed in August, putting many people on the same holiday timetable. As the years passed, and the economies of France and Italy became more diversified, this was no longer a forced vacation, but it did become a habitual one.  

The idea that summer is for relaxation and play, and not work, has been deeply ingrained in the collective psyche, and this unshakable belief has led to most people thinking it inconceivable to not take the month off.  

The idea that all French go away in August isn’t exactly the case, though.

In fact, there are two distinct camps, namely the juilletistes who leave for July, and the aoûtiens who opt for August. For example, if someone grew up going away in July, then as adults, they tend to stick to that routine. A quirk, indeed, but one not without its charms.  

IT’S NORMAL 

Another reason for the closures is that the French and Italians like a good holiday just like everyone else. It’s rather silly of outsiders to think that just because they want to visit these wonderful places in summer that locals don’t want to get away with their families during this period too.  

Tourists can take comfort in knowing that even though a fair few shops, restaurants and facilities are closed, the big tourist attractions, like museums and churches, tend to remain open, so even if it’s trickier to find a baguette, a trip up the Eiffel Tower can still be had, no problem! 

 

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Photo source: Loic Barré, Unsplash