in Genk – Belgium
La Botte: Where Sicilian Soul Meets Michelin Stardom in Genk
Hidden in the heart of Genk, Belgium, La Botte is more than just a restaurant—it’s a living tribute to Sicilian heritage, Italian culinary artistry, and the kind of hospitality that makes you feel like family. And in 2025, after decades of quiet excellence, La Botte finally received its long-awaited and well-deserved Michelin star.
A Family Legacy Rooted in Sicily
La Botte’s story began over forty years ago when Vincenzo Giacomazza left Sicily to start a new life in Limburg. With passion and perseverance, he built a restaurant that honored the flavors of his homeland. Today, his sons Peppe and Gaspare carry that torch with pride. Chef Peppe Giacomazza crafts dishes that pay homage to tradition while embracing innovation, and Gaspare, the sommelier and host, curates a wine list that’s a journey through Italy’s finest vineyards.
Michelin-Starred, But Never Pretentious
Despite its Michelin star, La Botte doesn’t feel like a typical fine dining establishment. It’s warm, bustling, and joyfully Italian. Peppe himself greets guests at the door with a handshake and a smile, chatting in a charming blend of Dutch and Italian. His motto? “Life’s too short to eat badly.” And after one meal here, you’ll believe it.
Dishes That Sing of Italy
The menu is a poetic ode to Italian cuisine. A vitello tonnato that redefines the classic. A single ravioli—yes, just one—that’s anything but modest, bursting with flavor and reverence for the art of pasta. And a risotto that celebrates the San Marzano tomato in all its glory—risotto ai cinque pomodori San Marzano—a name that rolls off the tongue like a love letter to Italy.
A Place You’ll Want to Return To
La Botte is the kind of place where, halfway through your meal, you’re already planning your next visit. It’s not just about the food—it’s about the feeling. The laughter, the clinking of glasses, the stories shared across the table. It’s a Michelin-starred experience wrapped in the warmth of a family-run trattoria.
Chef: Peppe Giacomazza
Date of visit: August 7th 2025
Website: https://labotte.be/
Michelin: 1 star
Gault & Millau: 16
