La Antigua Vinería

I set out to build in Antigua Guatemala an old Italian taverna of about the 18th century, of a time when travelers went in horse-drawn carriages and at night stopped to dine, to change horses and to rest. 

These types of restaurants were owned and managed by poor folks and did not have much luxury.  One could drink wine that was made from grapes pressed by feet; one could sing and laugh happily. 

People used the walls to write messages, about business, about love, or revenge,  to communicate with travelers following them.  The messages were witnesses of different people , from the poorest to the richest.  The whole taverna was made of simple things, such as bricks, tiles, empty wine bottles, used to hold candles. 

LA ANTIGUA VINERIA was introduced to the colonial town of ANTIGUA GUATEMALA and since it opened its doors in the far distant month of October 1998, has always continued to grow.  

All its successes made it one of the most loved restaurants in all of Guatemala.

Beppe D’Angella

"My town, called Bra, is in the Piedmont region of North East of Italy.  Our cuisine is 100% Italian.  Welcome to La Antigua Vineria."

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Colors of the walls

These colors were created to give the vineria a touch of antiquity and to create an enjoayble and a relaxing environment.

Taking photos

This tradition started as a joke, and it became so successful and our first customers decided that when a new guest comes, their photo is taken and posted on the ceiling.  Now it's a tradition!

Illuminated masks

I wanted to give a touch of local folklore, using different wooden and clay masks made by local people with the idea of using them as lamps.

Different colors of lights

Trying to light the restaurant as best as possible, but without using direct light, gave me the idea of different seccions of lights in different colors, which helps give a very special touch, of romance and relaxation!