Note - this post is part of a series of posts dedicated to excellent and reasonably-priced restaurants in Tuscany.
Experiencing exquisite and authentic restaurants is one of the greatest pleasures of going on a trip, espeically in a country like Italy. Eating at local restaurants while vacationing will not only allow you to enjoy the regional cuisine, but also give you a sense of the local traditions, tastes and customs.
That is why traveling and testing out different restaurants is such an important part of our work. We spend a great deal of time hunting for the most unique and authentic spots in Tuscany, so we can recommend with confidence the best restaurants in Florence, Lucca, Montepulciano, Siena, Pisa and the Tuscan countryside to our readers.
This is us, working hard.. credit: Ariela Bankier/Tuscany for the shameless Hedonist
One of the best things about the Tuscan culinary scenes is its variety. We’ve had memorable meals in family-owned and operated restaurants, which have been serving the same delicious dishes for over 30 years, and we’ve enjoyed remarkable culinary experiences at Michelin-starred restaurants, too. We’ve also enjoyed the food in little sandwich shops and food markets that are usually frequented exclusively by locals, and on serene farm restaurants (agritursimi), tucked away in the countryside. This is to say that in a land like Tuscany, you really never know when your next exciting meal will come from, and you should never be too quick to judge. That tiny food hall run by two grandmothers may just make the best Bistecca Fiorentina (Florentine steak) you’ve ever tasted.
When we first decided to write this series of blog posts, we were somewhat undecided about which kind of restaurants to include in the list. After much debate, we decided we would compile a varied list of restaurants and eateries, ranging from the tiniest bars (famous for their delicious panini) to the most acclaimed chef-led osterie in the region, and let our readers choose whichever restaurant suits them the most. We also decided to dedicated some extra attention to small, family-run trattorie, that serve homely and delicious food for reasonable prices. These restaurants are, after all, the heart and soul of Tuscan cooking, and will provide travelers with an authentic encounter with the Tuscan cuisine.
Naturally, these posts only review a small fraction of what is on offer. For a more complete list - consult our travel guide, Tuscany for the Shameless Hedonist. And now, let's get to the review itself!
Volterra - or as we like to call it: San Gimignano’s older, more sensible sister - is a great place to visit. The streets are a joy to explore and are filled with historic palazzi and monuments, some of which date back to the Etruscan times. There is even a historic 1500 year old Roman Ampetheater, to tempt history-lovers. Volterra is also world famous for its alabaster industry. The town is brimming with workshops that sell beautiful and handcrafted items made from this delicate stone. (Read more on where to find the best quality alabaster items on Tuscany for the Shameless Hedonist.)
After you have explored the history and shopping of Volterra, you will surly want to enjoy the food. Volterra does offer a variety of fun little trattorias, but our favorite restaurant is actually located just outside of Volterra, in Agriturismo Villa Felice.
As soon as you pull up to Agrturismo Villa Felice, it will become clear why this spot is so popular (booking in advance, especially on the weekends, is essential) – Villa Felice enjoys a coveted and spectacular panoramic view, that immediately sets it apart from the competition. Although the menu is simple, it is very well executed. The pasta is delicious and the meat dishes are a point of pride for the owners, making this eatery a top choice for avid carnivores.
On our last visit, for example, we enjoyed a delicious plate steaming gnocchi, mozzarella, basil and sun kissed tomatoes, as well as a flavor packed plate of ravioli, served in a butter and sage sauce.
For dessert, skip the usual Tuscan fair and try the Sebada, a typical Sardinian pastry (the owner of the Villa is of Sardinian descent), made with flaky dough, filled with ricotta, deep fried and then coated with honey. Delicious!
As always, you can find out more about the very best restaurants, wine tours & wine tastings, spas and events in Tuscany, as well as secret spots and best outlet shops, medieval carnivals, horseback rides and wonderful B&Bs and hotels in our popular travel guide, Tuscany for the Shameless Hedonist.
If, on the other hand, you are visiting Tuscany with you kids, don't miss our popular guide Florence & Tuscany with Kids 2015 - it contains everything you need to know to build a perfect family vacation in Florence and Tuscany, as well as detailed step-by-step itineraries, top activities and attractions for kids, and much more.