About us
About us
Welcome to La Dogana! Located on the border between Tuscany and Umbria, where the Tuscan hills stretch out before you and the view immediately makes you feel you are in the right place. Here, in the heart of Italy, we combine the best of two worlds: the rich flavours of Tuscany and the surprises of Umbria.
In March 2024, Boet Berendsen and Lieke Hogenkamp took over the restaurant. With their experience and passion for Italian cuisine, they set out to revive this beautiful corner of the world.
They combine their love for local products and the region and are happy to share it with you.
Simplicity in the kitchen.
What will you find on our plates? Almost exclusively local products, fresh from the producer, with a Mediterranean touch. We work with the best producers in the region—think of delicious olive oil, fresh vegetables, and of course outstanding wines from small, often undiscovered wineries that we are delighted to introduce to you.
Simplicity is our guiding principle: good food, good wine, and an atmosphere that makes you feel at home. We are not interested in pomp and ceremony, but in creating a place where you can relax, enjoy, and fully immerse yourself in the flavours and atmosphere of these beautiful regions.
So come and visit us, reserve a table with a view, and be surprised by what we have in store for you. Buon appetito!
BOET BERENDSEN
The magic in our kitchen comes from Boet Berendsen, our chef with Dutch roots who has fallen in love with Italian cuisine. After cooking in Michelin-starred restaurants in the Netherlands, where he received a Bib Gourmand from Michelin in 2019, Boet decided to continue his adventure in Italy. In 2022, he moved to Castiglione del Lago to deepen his knowledge of Italian cuisine.
Boet’s approach is simple: honest, high-quality ingredients combined with a creative touch. Every meal he prepares is a tribute to Italian tradition, always marked by his personal signature. He loves simplicity, enriched with the creativity needed to turn the region’s offerings into something special. And you can taste it in every bite, on every plate.
LIEKE HOGENKAMP
Lieke Hogenkamp is the hostess of La Dogana and the driving force behind the guest experience.
In 2023, she decided to give her life a new direction and moved to Castiglione del Lago to fully focus on her passions: food, wine, and organising special events.
Since 2023, she has been co-owner of the restaurant together with Boet and is mainly responsible for the wine selection and event organization.
Her experience in planning events is invaluable, whether it’s an intimate dinner or a large celebration. With her natural hospitality and attention to detail, Lieke ensures that every visit to La Dogana is not only a culinary experience, but also a unique and unforgettable one.