We met Marta, founder of L'altro, at its charming new location that just opened in Milan this month. What's on the menu? Venetian Tramezzini of course, and so much more.
Who's Marta?
I confess a part of me is still very childlike and I have fun expressing it—having been raised by my grandparents until I was eighteen allowed me to preserve a genuine childishness that still expresses itself in my use of diminutives and playful sensibilities that remain with me daily. Simultaneously, I carry a strong feminine strength passed down from my mother, who essentially raised me herself. Watching her example taught me resilience and independence that I've incorporated into my own identity. These dual aspects—the perpetual child and the determined woman—coexist and define who Marta truly is.
What brought you to your work?
I arrived at my current path pretty spontaneously. While my education and early career were firmly rooted in fashion, a series of circumstances led me to take over a Venetian sandwich - Il Tramezzino - business my stepfather had started in Milan. The business needed someone passionate to truly develop it, and I found myself uniquely positioned with both my natural transparency on social media and my family's longtime culinary enthusiasm. What began as rescuing a struggling venture evolved into a perfect blend of my authentic communication style, fashion industry connections I already created, and our family's tradition of food appreciation.
How would you define your personal aesthetic in few words?
That's a hard one! I guess effortlessly and understated?! I gravitate toward simplicity, unconcerned with elaborate makeup or styled hair, preferring a low-profile naturalness. I look for casual spontaneity in how I present myself, not meticulously curated but possibly guided by an inherent sense of taste. Elegance to me never appears forced or constructed. It's about being comfortably authentic rather than deliberately trying to stand out. My mother and grandmother, for example, have always naturally embodied this kind of spirit.
Designers, artists, entrepreneurs: any figure you got and get inspired the most?
Kate Moss profoundly influenced my young self as she represented a pivotal shift in beauty standards with her imperfect teeth and more attainable beauty—despite being gorgeous, she wasn't considered conventionally perfect at the time. I even tattooed myself "kate" on my ankle as a teenager! On the entrepreneurial side, Miuccia Prada stands as a north star to me. Her unflinching authenticity in never altering her appearance, her formidable business acumen while remaining distinctly feminine, and her brilliant horizontal diversification across fashion and food realms. She embodies an unapologetic power that gives me chills.
What catches your attention the most in people/spaces?
What draws me to both spaces and people is authenticity stripped of pretense. I appreciate places where substance takes precedence over ornamentation, where what's served or presented is genuine rather than contrived. Similarly, with people, I'm drawn to those who are sincere, unaffected, and transparent—individuals who embrace simplicity and authenticity. Essentially, I guess I value realness a lot!
Do you find a connection between fashion, design and food, especially nowadays?
Absolutely —particularly in today's creative landscape. These disciplines have become beautifully intertwined, Food has become fashion, fashion is art, and art influences food in an endless dialogue of creative expression. What's fascinating is how these intersections generate unique harmonies and energetic collaborations across sectors.
What is your favorite place ever?
I should perhaps answer 'L'altro' as my favorite place and I guess it is! Apart from it, I confess I have a secret sanctuary I spend time at every single year, a simple wooden cabin surrounded by nature. At least once a year, I feel this profound need to retreat to such a minimal, natural setting—it's one thing I absolutely couldn't give up. Another favorite place—though it would be first if it still existed—was my grandparents' home.
What does a Relaxed attitude mean to you?
Authentically being yourself without changing to accommodate others' expectations. Though I do care what people think, I don't let it alter who I am. It's about moving through life with genuine ease: dressing comfortably, speaking freely, listening earnestly to others' stories, and seeing people as potential collaborators rather than competitors. It's the absence of jealousy and instead finding joy in others' successes and opportunities. t's an approach I strive to embody and greatly appreciate in others."
Name 3 favorites/must haves in your wardrobe and in your fridge
I can't live without well-worn jeans, comfortable long-sleeve t-shirts, and an oversized button-down that elevates any look. In my refrigerator, you'll always find almond milk for my daily matcha latte, a selection of quality cheeses and ready-made quality broth—a surprising kitchen hack that definitely outperforms bouillon cubes when homemade isn't possible.
