A day trip to beautiful Cesenatico was made perfect by an exceptional gourmet lunch at Marè.
Positioned right by the beach at the end of the canal that sets the town apart from so many others, they are open from morning to night.
When we first took our seats I felt the regular menu was a little bit pricey for our pocket, but then we noticed most of those around us receiving a tray with four dishes - clearly a set lunch. Priced at 23 euros per person, it included a starter, main course accompanied by a salad, and a desert. It looked stunning.
Only possible issue appeared to be that the main course was fettuccine with clams - and I'm gluten free. The waiter informed me they would provide me with an alternative, so all was well.
My companions and I enjoyed an excellent octopus salad (beautifully presented) and my alternative GF main dish was an outstanding king prawn dish that stole the show. We all agreed the food was delightful. Topping that was the arrival of a delicious GF bread (one of the best I've tasted) that meant I wasn't left out when it came to making the most of the superb sauces.
The others moved on to a lovely desert and I left them to it, assuming that I'd have to sit out the final course. Then the manager appeared and presented me with a mango sorbet desert accompanied by meringue, all gluten free.
This was not only a very good value fine dining experience, but the presentation of the food, the sea view and elegant surroundings, and especially the thoughtfulness of the staff made it a lunch to remember.
We will certainly return and build future visits to Cesenatico around lunch at Marè.