Not far from the Città Alta, in an exclusive hillside setting, Villa Elena is one of the most sumptuous residences in the Bergamo hills. A panoramic garden-terrace where, in fine weather, you can start your meal, a medieval tower and a 16th-century main building, in the inner rooms, amidst stuccoes, mirrors, marble and frescoes, Marco Galtarossa's cuisine - developed in collaboration with Italy's most starred chef, Enrico Bartolini - is perfectly suited to such a sumptuous atmosphere. Often highly technical and elaborate dishes, sometimes split into several courses and combined with a skilful use of aromatic herbs, make this restaurant a must-visit address for memorable meals and the most important occasions. If the purple shrimp, served with a combination of medlar and elderflower, is an extraordinary appetiser, at the end of the meal the inspector suggests tasting walnuts and jasmine tea: a dessert that is a splendid variation on the theme of dried fruit.