The Locals Table

Introducing The Locals Table

The Locals' Table (financed by the European Union through the SMARTIES FOR SMEs Grant -- Grant Agreement n. 101121576 -- and led by the Camera di Commercio della Toscana Nord-Ovest) is an exciting new initiative from Travel Italy Guru, designed to celebrate the unique agrifoods and rich heritage of rural Tuscany – from native breeds and heirloom produce to authentic local recipes.

Beyond the typical tourist experience, Tuscany is a treasure trove of culinary excellence, home to legally protected agriproducts that reflect the region’s deep agricultural traditions. These terroir-driven foods offer a truly unique and authentic taste of Tuscany, deeply rooted in its history and culture.

Through a series of immersive experiences within The Locals’ Table initiative, travelers will uncover the true Tuscany: crafting unique recipes, meeting local farmers and shepherds, sampling rare products, discovering ancient foods, and exploring a hidden side of the region rarely seen by visitors.

100% Local Cooking Classes and Pasta Workshops

In the coming months, we will launch a dedicated website detailing the various activities and events planned for this project. One of our most exciting initiatives is our cooking classes, where we exclusively use Local, Zero-KM, Seasonal, and Certified Agri-Foods. Forget those "standard" mass tourism pasta classes – we want to share the authentic heart of Tuscany with you in a way most visitors never experience! During these classes, we'll prepare seasonal recipes using 100% regional agri-foods, including rare and unique treasures like heritage fruits and vegetables, transhumance cheeses, and meats from native breeds.

Exclusive Guided Tastings of Rare and Delicious Agrifoods from Rural Tuscany

Another absolutely unique experience we offer is our guided tastings: a rare opportunity to savor special products that sometimes even Italians themselves don’t get to try! In these guided tastings, you'll discover rare cheeses from rural Tuscany, cured meats crafted from native breeds (such as the Cinta Senese pig and others), as well as wines made from autochthonous grapes.

Stay tuned!

We’re “cooking up” something truly special (forgive the pun…), so stay tuned for updates about our Locals’ Table events, cooking classes, guided tastings, and wine events. Something delicious and memorable is on its way, and we'd love for you to be part of it!

More About… The Tuscan Agrifoods

Many of Italy’s most celebrated delicacies hold DOP certification, a mark of quality for traditional agricultural products. Think of Parmigiano Reggiano DOP and Prosciutto di Parma DOP, for example, both of which come from a region called Emilia Romagna. But Tuscany, too, boasts its own unique and esteemed agrifoods, recognized for their excellence and traditional production methods.

One of Tuscany's most well-known certified agrifoods is Pecorino Toscano DOP, a sheep's milk cheese with a history stretching back centuries. Renowned for its nutty and subtly tangy flavor, this cheese is crafted using time-honored techniques and aged to perfection in cellars across the Tuscan countryside. A remarkably versatile delicacy, its flavor profile ranges from creamy and delicate to bold and sharp, depending on its age. It's also delightful paired with local honey or grated over pasta.

Another standout is Prosciutto Toscano DOP, a cured ham that perfectly embodies the region’s artisanal expertise. Made from carefully selected pigs, this prosciutto is seasoned with a distinctive blend of herbs, garlic, and pepper, setting it apart from other Italian cured hams. Its delicate flavor and melt-in-your-mouth texture make it a beloved component of antipasto platters.

Tuscany is also renowned for its Extra Virgin Olive Oil Toscano IGP, celebrated for its vibrant green color and robust, fruity flavor. This oil is produced from olives grown on the Tuscan hills, hand-harvested, and cold-pressed to maintain its freshness. It's a cornerstone of Tuscan cuisine, ideal for drizzling over salads, soups, and bruschetta, or simply enjoyed with fresh bread.

Hidden Treasure Await…

But Tuscany's culinary landscape extends far beyond these well-known classics! The Locals’ Table initiative will spotlight a variety of equally exceptional, yet lesser-known, DOP and IGP products, alongside many unique, under-the-radar gems: cheeses from shepherds who still practice ancient transhumance, rare fruits and vegetables, meats from native animal breeds raised using traditional methods, and recipes passed down through generations. These hidden treasures reveal the region's diverse traditions and deep commitment to quality craftsmanship.

Consider Pecorino delle Balze Volterrane DOP, a rare sheep's milk cheese produced in the scenic hills around Volterra. What makes this cheese unique is that it's made exclusively with raw milk from sheep grazing on local pastures and coagulated using artichoke flower rennet. The result is a delicate, subtly herbal flavor that distinguishes it from other pecorinos. It's a must-try for cheese lovers seeking something truly special.

And did you know that one of Tuscany’s hidden agrifoods is actually considered a superfood? The Farro della Garfagnana IGP is an ancient variety of spelt grown in the Garfagnana region, nestled between the Apuan Alps and the Apennines. This hearty grain, cultivated using traditional methods, is prized for its nutty flavor and versatility, but also for its nutritional value. It forms the base of many Tuscan soups, salads, and risottos, offering a nutritious and flavorful connection to the region's agricultural heritage.

Another highlight is Lardo di Colonnata IGP, a delicacy crafted in the small village of Colonnata near Carrara. This cured pork fatback is aged in marble basins, layered with sea salt, garlic, rosemary, and other herbs. The unique microclimate of the area and the properties of the marble contribute to the lardo’s melt-in-your-mouth texture and rich, savory flavor. Often served thinly sliced on warm bread, it’s a luxurious treat that embodies Tuscany’s artisanal ingenuity.

These are just a few examples from a long list of exceptional agrifoods that truly represent the heart and soul of Tuscan cuisine: authentic flavors, wholesome ingredients, and centuries of tradition.

The Locals’ Table is Our Way of Sharing with You Tuscany’s Authentic Culinary Heritage

At Travel Italy Guru, we deeply believe in the transformative power of slow tourism and the unique role of experiential food and wine activities. We reveal the true charm of Tuscany by celebrating its rich local cuisine, agri-foods, wines, and rural heritage. Our experiences are authentic, heartfelt, and engaging—designed to leave a lasting impression and foster meaningful connections between travelers and locals. We focus on activities that honor Tuscany’s heritage, embrace sustainability, prioritize animal welfare, and support family-owned businesses. In this way, we ensure that every experience resonates with purpose and upholds our values.