Amanda & Jesse

Restaurant Recommendations

Here are some of our favorite restaurants we ate at and loved! Some notes 1. Most restaurants in Italy close in the afternoon, think around 2:30/3-5. Plan lunches accordingly. Jess and I recommend doing something touritsy in the AM, having lunch and then doing something touristy in the afternoon. 2. A few things on wine; A good bottle or glass of wine does not need to be expensive, often the house white or red are exceptional. DOCG is the designation given to the best bottles in Italy, the menu should denote this, they only end up being a few euros more than non DOCG bottles. If you are unsure what to order, ask! Everyone we encountered recommended a great bottle for us.

Ristorante Le Volte

5r Via dell'Orto, Firenze, Toscana 50124, Italy

We went here for lunch in Florence it was absolutely fabulous! It was far enough from the most touristy areas to feel authentic while close enough to not be annoying to get to! We had the Meatballs and Beef Tartare for apps and then the Cappellacci and Risotto for entree.

Regina Bistecca

14r Via Ricasoli, Firenze, Toscana 50122, Italy

Took Jesse here for his birthday dinner! A great vibe as it is was once an old bookstore! Very close to the Basilica of Santa Maria Novella. The Steak Florentine is to die for.

Ristorante Alla Vecchia Bettola Firenze

3/5/7 Viale Vasco Pratolini, Firenze, Toscana 50124, Italy

Jesse and his family had an unforgettable meal here 20 years ago and when we went back it was just as special (not just because their standard house wine only comes a liter and a half at a time). Make a reservation or be prepared to sit at a communal table.

Sottosotto

1 Piazza dell'Anfiteatro, Lucca, Toscana 55100, Italy

This is in the main square of Lucca! A great restaurant in a very trouristy area. We had the pumpkin flan and mortadella bruschetta and the gnocchi with sausage and dill ragu. The tiramisu is one of the best Jesse has ever had!

Da Rosolo

3 Corte Campana, Lucca, Toscana 55100, Italy

A very cozy vibe. The wild boar ragu we both agreed was exceptional!

Osteria Parlascio Lucca

44 Piazza dell'Anfiteatro, Lucca, Toscana 55100, Italy

In the same main square as SottoSotto. A great place for a quick snack and a glass of wine. They have a fried burrata ball which is what mozzarella sticks wish they were

Buca di Sant'Antonio

3 Via della Cervia, Lucca, Toscana 55100, Italy

A truly special place to have a meal. We both agreed this was our fave dinner we had in italy! The leek and potato pie was amazing and Jess loved the sweetbread. The ravioli with meat sauce had us fighting over the plate. The truffle pasta was so light, and the chocolate mousse was the perfect way to end the meal. If you are wanting to go here definitely get a reservation!

Alimentari di Castelfalfi

Castelfalfi, Toscana 50050, Italy

Not far from florence (about an hour), an absolute banger of a spot for wine and cheese. The owner is so nice and the view is can't miss.

For all the days along the way

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