ARTFEED — Contemporary Art Intelligence

Bistrot and Gallery Open in Baroque Palazzo Nicolaci, Noto

exhibition · 2026-04-27

On April 6, 2023, a new art space and bistrot named Viva il Bistrot will debut at Palazzo Nicolaci in Noto, Sicily. This venture is a partnership between chef Viviana Varese and gallerist Paolo Perelli from Spazionoto, which highlights queer artists. Varese, who is based in Milan, previously opened W Villadorata Country Restaurant in 2022. The bistrot will accommodate 150 guests, with 70 seats indoors and on the terrace, and will hire around 30 employees. The venue boasts 18th-century architecture, featuring a 1950s-style bar and Lampe de Marseille lamps. A rotating exhibition will showcase artworks for sale, and the bistrot will operate seasonally until November 5, contributing to Noto's inclusive contemporary scene.

Key facts

  • Viva il Bistrot opens April 6, 2023 at Palazzo Nicolaci, Noto.
  • Chef Viviana Varese leads the bistrot, with Ida Brenna as head chef.
  • Galleria Spazionoto by Paolo Perelli curates rotating art exhibitions in the bistrot.
  • Spazionoto exclusively represents queer artists; Pedro Almodóvar has exhibited there.
  • The space was an 18th-century cellar with pointed arches and barrel vaults.
  • Initial artists include Momo, Giuliano Cardella, Pablo Azocar, Daniele Fortuna, and Elica Studio.
  • Bistrot serves up to 150 covers per service, with 70 seats indoors and on terrace.
  • The project is seasonal, open until November 5, then winter break.

Entities

Artists

  • Paolo Perelli
  • Pedro Almodóvar
  • Viviana Varese
  • Matteo Carnaghi
  • Ida Brenna
  • Valentini Rizzi
  • Momo
  • Giuliano Cardella
  • Pablo Azocar
  • Daniele Fortuna
  • Betty Bovina
  • Carlo Pastore
  • Poul M. Volther

Institutions

  • Spazionoto
  • Viva il Bistrot
  • Palazzo Nicolaci
  • Accademia di Belle Arti (Ravenna)
  • W Villadorata Country Restaurant
  • Country House Villadorata
  • VIM Group
  • Nemo Lightning
  • Hay
  • Elica Studio
  • Si può fare (social cooperative)
  • Artribune

Locations

  • Noto
  • Sicily
  • Italy
  • Ravenna
  • Milan
  • Campania
  • Catania
  • Brescia
  • Santiago
  • Chile
  • Bologna
  • Paris

Sources