Ferrari the Film: Modena's Motors and Food

Ferrari (2023) by Michael Mann tells the life of Enzo Ferrari and his Modena, the heart of the Motor Valley. But Modena is not only about motors: it is one of Italy’s gastronomic capitals, a land of flavours known all over the world. Here is the Modena of the film and what to put on the table.

The Modena of Enzo Ferrari, shot (almost) entirely for real

The film breathes the air of 1950s Modena: the streets, the workshops, the passion for racing. A rare detail for a Hollywood production: between August and October 2022, the crew filmed almost entirely in the city’s real locations, with very little CGI. Recognisable spots include Piazza Roma, with Palazzo Ducale in the background, Piazza Grande with the Duomo and the Ghirlandina bell tower, the Teatro Comunale Pavarotti-Freni (setting for the opera scene), the San Cataldo Monumental Cemetery, and even the “Da Antonio” barbershop near the Duomo — the very one Enzo Ferrari really used. The elegant, hard-working Emilian city is the perfect backdrop for the story of “the Drake”.

The flavours of Modena

Here the cuisine is a heritage. Don’t miss:

• Tortellini in broth, the queen of the Emilian table;
• Hand-made tortelloni and tagliatelle;
• Traditional Balsamic Vinegar of Modena PDO, aged for decades;
• Parmigiano Reggiano, Lambrusco and zampone.

Modena is also home to world-famous fine dining: a paradise for food lovers.

An itinerary in the Motor Valley

Beyond the table, the area offers the motor museums (Ferrari, Lamborghini, Pagani) and the art cities of Emilia. A weekend between speed and slowness at the table.

In short

Ferrari is a tribute to Modena, where motors and good food run at the same speed. The perfect destination for those who love cinema and taste. Browse the other films and their food locations.