With a brand representing all things luxury, the Ritz-Carlton Reynolds, Lake Oconee, anticipate stellar eats at their latest culinary addition Amore del Lago, an authentic Italian cuisine helmed by distinguished Executive Chef Andrea Rodella.
Amore del Lago offers desserts including cannoli with ricotta mascarpone cream, toasted pistachios and mini chocolate chips PHOTO COURTESY OF RITZ-CARLTON REYNOLDS, LAKE OCONEE
Chef Andrea Rodella with a crisp serving of white wine and the ricotta gnocchi PHOTO COURTESY OF RITZ-CARLTON REYNOLDS, LAKE OCONEE
There is an assumed experience when reserving luxury accommodation. For a reason, Ritz- Carlton Reynolds, Lake Oconee (@ritzcarltonreynoldslakeoconee), is one of the leading luxury resorts in the South. With 30 acres of shoreline property, exceeding expectations and delivering value is their strength. Coming off the heels of their multi-million-dollar renovation, the lush green is now loaded with posh accommodations from every angle. This lakeside haven is ideal for an endless summer in Georgia.
The highly anticipated culinary gem on the estate Amore del Lago led by executive chef Andrea Rodella has opened its doors. Chef Rodella, born and raised in Northern Italy, grew up learning the art of crafting Italian dishes from his grandmother, helping her create dishes from scratch and often picking fresh produce from the garden to prepare dishes for family and friends. Influenced by these roots of quality, his culinary philosophy is to use only the freshest ingredients to assemble simple yet delicious plates.
Inspired by his fervency for cooking and the harmony produced by sharing a meal with family and friends, chef Rodella resolved to study culinary arts in his hometown of Mantua, Italy, to further develop his craft. “My goal for Amore del Lago is to create a menu that evokes nostalgia for our diners and provides a dining experience that brings genuine joy and connection among all who dine with us.” Calling him a skilled culinarian is an understatement considering he has perfected his craft at various Michelin-starred restaurants, luxury five-star resorts and exclusive members-only clubs. With a resume as impressive as his, flavor profiles will be nothing short of the créme de la créme featured on the menu of Amore del Lago. Look forward to cultural history being combined with his creativity and skill to showcase the best of Italian cuisine, from Carpaccio di Manzo and Polpette al Sugo starters to the savory Linguine alle Vongole entree option. And no Italian meal would be complete without a treat, especially the cannoli or tiramisu. Fortunately, both are sweetly offered á la carte.
Seafood lovers will appreciate the linguine alle vongole available on the menu PHOTO COURTESY OF RITZ-CARLTON REYNOLDS, LAKE OCONEE
With you in mind, the Ritz added a gift to complement the unbeatable bites. Prepare to also indulge in stunning views of the lake reminiscent of the coast of Italy, alfresco if you fancy. As the sun sets, the ambiance intensifies with jewel tones that dazzle the dining room walls and bounce off the blonde wood floors. The wood-burning oven, deep beams and monochrome Italian depictions enhance the mood of dusk. Grab an expertly crafted cocktail at the indoor-outdoor bar or watch the artisans delicately handmake pasta from scratch in the open kitchen.
“It’s an honor to be joining the incredibly talented culinary team at The Ritz-Carlton Reynolds, Lake Oconee, and to bring a dining concept that is so near and dear to my heart to the resort.” Bring your expectations and an even heftier appetite; this ritzy Italian concept lets your palate take a trip overseas.
Photography by: Ritz-Carlton Reynolds, Lake Oconee
