THE IDEA – IL RETROBOTTEGA

Andrea Provenzani

Cooking is the expression of who I am: from thought to the creation of an idea.

I am a chef and the owner of .IL Liberty Milano, born and raised in Milan in 1971.
In 2002, I fulfilled my dream by opening .IL Liberty, a place where tradition and simplicity meet a cuisine that blends classic and contemporary influences.

My cuisine is instinct and creativity: a journey that transforms an idea into a dish, guided by sensations, taste, and pleasure. Curiosity, the desire to improve, and an openness toward new people, places, and inspirations have always been the driving forces behind my growth. For me, human relationships are essential: I consider .IL Liberty a family — an environment where training, energy, respect, and curiosity nourish the daily work of my brigade.

In 2025, together with my staff, I opened .IL Retrobottega, the more informal soul of .IL Liberty’s cuisine.
A space that expresses my most genuine, free, and relaxed essence. .IL Retrobottega goes beyond the concept of a restaurant: it is a dynamic environment, constantly evolving and taking shape according to the occasion.

My idea of cuisine is rooted in conviviality. I believe the table should be a moment to be shared, unhurried and enjoyed together. Generous boards of carefully selected cured meats and cheeses, our house-made giardiniera, freshly baked multigrain focaccia… and then come the mondeghili and the unmistakable baked parmigiana.

Patricio Molina

Patricio is Pato to everyone: a contagious smile and an accent that carries the scent of Ecuador.
Head of the dining room at .IL Liberty for 17 years, he is one of the most beloved faces of the restaurant — he makes you laugh, recommends the perfect wine, and almost always convinces you to try the tiramisù.

Paolo Valentino

Paolo is a pillar of .IL Liberty’s kitchen: serious when needed, with the right joke to lighten even the most intense moments. After years spent in Michelin-starred kitchens and seasons between Como and Cortina, meeting Andrea (same birthday included) felt like it was written in destiny.

Matteo Missaglia

Matteo, born in 1995 and originally from Lecco, went from being a guest to becoming one of the chefs who brings our first courses, fresh pasta, and baked goods to life.

What they say about us

“.IL Retrobottega was a sensational discovery — a place cared for down to the smallest detail, immediately conveying a sense of intimacy and warmth. The cuisine deserves special praise.” It’s a place that captures you: hidden, almost secret, but once you find it, you already know you’ll be back. Highly recommended!

Francesca V.

“A slightly hidden entrance, but after a few steps I find myself in a passageway, then BOOM — a stunning hidden courtyard, followed by a very welcoming venue, kind and helpful staff, and good food? No, amazing. Will I come back? Yes, absolutely!”

Jaqueline S.

“A restaurant that impresses from the very first moment, where the cuisine lives up to the setting: refined, flavorful, and harmonious dishes served in a sophisticated and creative atmosphere. The space is defined by a play of contrasts between deep midnight blue, exposed brick, and modern lines highlighted by touches of yellow plexiglass that give it a unique, elegant, and intriguing character. A true architectural and gastronomic gem!!”

Beatrice Z.

“I was enchanted by the experience at .IL Retrobottega. From the very moment I walked in, I immediately felt at ease. The staff are kind, knowledgeable, and always attentive to every need. The dishes are excellent. I can’t wait to come back and try the rest of the menu!”

Denise R.

“I went to discover this new venue born from Il Liberty, and I can say it offers the same quality, but with a fresh and well-thought-out concept. Genuine, simple, and impactful. My lunch was guided by a glass of bubbly, but they offer a wide selection of wines, so everyone can find something they like — or even enjoy more than one.”

Alanis R.