A traditional dinner at the well-known Villa Piccinetti in Fano, Marche, turned into a public health incident last weekend when 100 out of 800 guests fell sick with gastrointestinal symptoms.
Among the attendees were regional election candidates Matteo Ricci and Marta Ruggeri, who were not affected.
By the next morning, dozens reported vomiting, diarrhea, and stomach pain, prompting a rush to local pharmacies and emergency medical services.
What puzzled guests and the restaurant alike was that “the menu was the same for everyone, yet only some people became ill.”
Restaurant owner Antonella Piccinetti told Corriere Adriatico:
“Thirty-six waiters, the chefs, and my own children ate the same food and felt fine. We genuinely don’t understand what happened.”
Following the incident, several guests demanded refunds, while social media filled with criticism and jokes about the evening. Authorities are now investigating the cause — whether it was a foodborne pathogen or accidental contamination remains unclear.
📌 History of food poisoning incidents in Fano