“Sawmill turned restaurant?” you might ask. That’s exactly what the Segheria is. This unique Milanese establishment offers a dining experience unlike any other.
The Segheria is more than just a restaurant. It is a brilliant work of scenography. It cleverly combines industrial history with modern design. Once a neglected sawmill, the Segheria has been transformed into a stylish space. It retains its industrial roots while setting a high bar for elegance.
Tanja Solci, the artistic director, is the visionary behind the Segheria. She treated the neglected facility as an important historic building. Solci painstakingly cleaned the masonry walls. She also replaced the wood roof. For almost 15 years, Solci used the space for her office. She also held special events during Milan’s Design Week. Clients included Bang & Olufsen and Ross Lovegrove.
Solci partnered with Michelin-starred restaurateur Carlo Cracco. Together, they created Carlo e Camilla in Segheria. The name itself is ironic, referencing British royalty.
Inside the Segheria, two long rectangular tables dominate the main space. These tables can accommodate over 60 diners. Guests sit communally. Angular masculine chairs line one side. Curvy feminine ones line the other. The tables are set with mismatched vintage Richard Ginori plates. Crystal chandeliers hang above, creating a magical atmosphere. However, they don’t provide the main light. A modular metal grid houses the real luminaires. This gives the illusion of floating bodies. Trompe l’oeil lighting tricks guests into thinking sunlight pours in.
The external courtyard displays ancient woodworking machinery. This completes the industrial architecture feel. The whole complex exudes aristocratic decadence. It is shielded from the street by an imposing gate.
The menu features Italian dishes with a modern twist. Chef Emanuele Pollini uses fresh, seasonal ingredients. The cocktail bar offers innovative drinks. Bartender Nicola Romiti adds haute cuisine techniques to classic mixes.
The Segheria also functions as an event space. Customers can rent rooms for private parties. They can also book it for corporate meetings and fashion shows.
Tanja Solci’s design inspiration came from various sources. These included a long table at a New York event and the film “Babette’s Feast”. She wanted to create a special and poetic atmosphere. The idea was to evoke a Sunday lunch in the countryside. A long table full of friends enjoying an informal dinner. The imaginary royal couple adds to the decadent atmosphere.
Solci’s favorite aspects of the Segheria are the tables and lights. She aimed for a theatrical atmosphere. Guests feel like they are out of time. She also enjoyed choosing the plates. She wanted a mix of aristocracy and decadence.
The Segheria is a place where design and food walk hand in hand. It’s a unique Milanese experience not to be missed. Remember to book well in advance. Reservations are hard to come by. The Segheria awaits offering a unique dining experience steeped in history and style.