A love story since 1979 that we will miss dearly
The historic La Libera restaurant, in the heart of the Brera district, had recently changed management. It was one of those changes that is difficult to get used to, but over time, little by little, you learn to accept it, and just the fact that the authenticity of the place has been preserved helps you relive the good times of the past and welcome new ones.
However, last December, Italo Manca, the soul and creator of this fantastic journey, left us. Since then, Brera has lost something of itself.
We therefore wish to pay tribute to him by remembering the history of one of the district’s iconic places, which we are delighted to have known and loved so much.
It was 1979 when Gino Narducci left the historic family trattoria ‘La Vittoria’ to start a new project, supported by Italo Manca, initially a collaborator and partner, and soon a friend.
This is how La Libera, located at Via Palermo 21, came to be: a brewery with a kitchen serving typical, home-style dishes — nothing too elaborate — accompanied by a selection of Northern European beers.
Risotto al salto, cotoletta alla milanese, pasta al pomodoro: simple, unpretentious dishes, ideal for a quick lunch, capable of making anyone feel at home. Completing the experience is the warm welcome from Gino and Italo and the restaurant’s “cult” dish, Il Liberato, a beer risotto.
Italo Manca was a distinctive character in the district; everyone knew him, and his style and impeccable outfits never went unnoticed.
We will miss you, dear Italo. A piece of our city’s history has flown away with you!
