Where to Eat Between Tuscany Winery Visits
The best winery trips aren't just about wine—they're about the complete Tuscan experience. The wine, the food, the scenery, the conversations with winery owners, the drive through cypress-lined roads, and the unexpected discoveries all work together. Your restaurant section should reinforce that idea.
Some of our most memorable moments in Tuscany didn't happen at wineries.
They happened around a dinner table.
Whether it was a perfectly grilled Florentine steak, handmade pasta served by a family that had been cooking the same recipes for generations, or a simple lunch overlooking the vineyards, the food became just as memorable as the wine.
The best meals aren't always found in guidebooks.
Many of our favorites were restaurants we discovered while driving between wineries—small family-owned trattorias tucked into medieval villages or hidden along quiet country roads. They're the places where the owner greets you at the door, recommends the day's specials, and sometimes says,
"Don't worry about the menu... we'll make something special for you."
Those are the meals we still talk about long after returning home.
When we recommend a restaurant, we're looking for much more than the food.
We consider:
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Incredible views
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Authentic Tuscan cooking
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Florentine steak
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Handmade pasta
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Warm hospitality
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Family ownership
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Memorable atmosphere
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Great wine lists
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Places worth driving out of your way to experience
Some are well known.
Others are hidden gems that we discovered almost by accident.
Both deserve a place on your itinerary.
Because Tuscany is spread across six very different wine regions, we've organized our restaurant recommendations by region to make planning easier.
Each regional guide includes our favorite places to eat nearby, whether you're looking for a memorable lunch between tastings or a dinner worth ending the day with.
Tuscany is large area so see below for our top restaurant picks per region
Pro Tip:
Most Restaurants close mid day and reopen 7-7:30... and most Europeans eat late... so we always book the earliest time possible, and we always end up with one of the best seats in the house.
Our Top Pick's For San Gimignano Restaurants
Fattoria Poggio Alloro
On here twice for winery and restaurant, not to miss
This became one of my favorite lunch stops around San Gimignano. Sitting on the terrace overlooking vineyards with the medieval towers in the distance is exactly what I imagined Tuscany would be. The food is simple, local, and pairs perfectly with their wines, making it an easy place to spend an afternoon.
Le Vecchie Mura
Best Views from the town of San Gimignano
If you're looking for one of the best views in San Gimignano, this is hard to beat. The outdoor terrace overlooks the Tuscan countryside, and sunset here is spectacular. It feels like one of those restaurants where you naturally linger over another glass of wine.
Dulcisinfundo
Feels like eating at Nonna's
Walking into Dulcisinfundo feels like stepping into a cozy Tuscan home. The atmosphere is relaxed, the service is welcoming, and the homemade pasta was one of the highlights of our visit. It's a wonderful place to escape the busy streets outside.
Ristorante Tre Archi
Authentic Tuscan home cooking, handmade pasta, and a quiet village escape away from heavy tourist crowd
Tre Archi has the kind of warm atmosphere that works equally well for couples or families. The portions are generous, the staff makes you feel welcome, and it's an easy recommendation if you're traveling with children or a larger group.
La Mangiatoia
Looking for boar and Florentine steak, and a cozy, romantic historic atmosphere tucked away on a quiet side street
This restaurant has been serving visitors for decades, and you can tell the recipes have been perfected over time. Everything feels authentic without trying too hard. It has that classic Tuscan charm that's becoming harder to find.
Linfa
Looking for something special
A Michelin-starred restaurant in San Gimignano, ideal for a refined modern meal.
Our top Picks of Northern Chianti Restaurants
Antica Macelleria Cecchini
Why eat here... simple legendary Florentine steaks and charismatic eighth-generation butcher Dario Cecchini.
Dinner here isn't just about eating—it's entertainment. Dario Cecchini's passion for food is contagious, and the entire experience feels more like joining a celebration than visiting a restaurant. If you're a steak lover, this belongs on your itinerary.
Ristoro di Lamole
Best sunset in Tuscany. Mountain background and unbelievable art.
The drive alone is worth the visit. Perched high above the vineyards, the panoramic views stretch for miles across Chianti. We found ourselves slowing down here, enjoying every course while taking in the scenery.
La Cantinetta di Rignana
If your looking for classic Tuscan dining experience with stunning vineyard views, and traditional regional cuisin
Hidden among vineyards, this feels like discovering a local secret. It's peaceful, surrounded by classic Tuscan landscapes, and the outdoor seating creates one of the most relaxing lunches you'll find in Chianti.
Officina della Bistecca
Looking for that communal dining, and world-class Florentine steak
If Tuscany had a temple dedicated to Florentine steak, this would be it. The communal tables, nonstop service, and incredible cuts of beef make this one of the most memorable dining experiences in the region.
Enoteca Baldi
To experience an extensive wine list in a charming Tuscan piazza
This is the perfect stop when you want great local wines without an elaborate meal. The knowledgeable staff happily recommend pairings, making it an excellent place to discover smaller Chianti producers.
Osteria di Passignano
Looking for the Elegant evening in a historic Chianti setting next to a medieval abbey, and exclusive Antinori wine pairing
A Michelin-recognized restaurant tied to the Antinori family in the heart of Chianti Classico
Our Top Mid Chianti Area Restaurant Picks
La Bottega di Volpaia
For those that want authentic home-style Tuscan food, enjoy stunning panoramic views of the Chianti hill
Dining inside the tiny medieval village of Volpaia feels like traveling back several centuries. The atmosphere is intimate, the food is wonderfully traditional, and every walk through the village afterward is worth savoring.
Bar-Ucci
Looking for that cozy medieval village atmosphere, that include handmade truffle and wild boar pasta
This was one of the most fun stops during our travels. Locals and visitors mingle together, conversations flow easily, and the casual atmosphere makes it feel like you've stumbled upon a neighborhood gathering.
Osteria Alla Piazza
Looking for authentic Tuscan food, stunning vineyard views, and quiet medieval village setting.
One of those dependable restaurants where everything simply works. Friendly service, traditional recipes, and generous portions make it an excellent lunch stop between winery visits.
La Torre
Looking for an elevated evening Michelin-starred dining, a 12th-century castle setting, and estate-grown ingredients
The views from this restaurant perfectly capture why people fall in love with Chianti. Rolling vineyards surround you in every direction, making it easy to forget about schedules and simply enjoy the moment.
Il Ristoro di Ama
Want top-rated traditional Tuscan dishes, view famous modern art, and relax in an 18th-century historic villa
After exploring nearby wineries, this was the perfect place to unwind. The peaceful setting and seasonal Tuscan menu complement the surrounding wine country beautifully.
Osteria Le Panzanelle
For those that want a cozy family home feel with shaded patio or terrace to look at the green vineyards during warm months
A beloved Chianti classic listed by Michelin is the typical inn among the Sienese hills, where the dishes evoke memories of family cooking.
Our Top Southern Chianti Restaurant Picks
Chianti Soul Kitchen
If you want charming plaza seating, creative updates to traditional Tuscan dishes, and warm, welcoming service
One of the things I appreciated most here was the personal interaction. The owners genuinely enjoy talking with guests, recommending wines, and making everyone feel like they're dining with friends rather than customers.
Osteria Cacio e Pepe
If you enjoy handmade regional pasta like pici cacio e pepe and a warm, welcoming, and casual family-run atmosphere
Relaxed, welcoming, and wonderfully authentic. Families, couples, and locals all seem equally comfortable here, and the homemade dishes reflect traditional Tuscan cooking at its best.
La Taverna della Berardenga
Looking for a cozy spot popular with neighborhood residents rather than just tourists.
This restaurant has the kind of rustic charm that perfectly matches southern Chianti. It's an easy place to slow down after a morning of winery visits and enjoy hearty regional specialties.
Ristorante Quei 2
A welcoming, family-friendly environment with authentic Tuscan food, generous portions, and fair prices
Fun, casual, and full of energy, this became one of those unexpected discoveries that travel.ers remember long after the trip. It's approachable, affordable, and consistently receives praise from visitors.
Anonima X
Looking for elevated creative Mediterranean flavors, with an exclusive vineyard setting inside a historic medieval hamlet
For travelers looking for something a little more contemporary, Anonima X offers a modern twist while still staying rooted in Tuscan flavors. It's a refreshing change of pace without losing the region's character.
Poggio Rosso
A Michelin-starred creative restaurant at Borgo San Felice. is an acclaimed Michelin-starred restaurant located within the luxurious Borgo San Felice Resort in the heart of the Chianti Classico region in Tuscany, Italy
Our Top Montalcino Restaurant Picks & why
Locanda Demetra
If you are looking for a unique farm-to-table dining experience, stunning Val d'Orcia views, and a warm family atmosphere
This felt less like dining at a restaurant and more like being welcomed into someone's home. The warm hospitality, beautiful countryside setting, and cooking classes make it one of the most memorable experiences in Montalcino.
Re di Macchia +39 0577 846116
If you want authentic home-cooked Tuscan food, warm hospitality from owner Antonio, and local specialties like pici with wild boar ragù
A wonderful choice when exploring Montalcino's historic center. The menu celebrates Brunello country, and every dish seems designed to pair perfectly with a local bottle.
Il Pozzo
Do you want authentic, no-frills Tuscan food, peaceful medieval village setting, and warm family hospitality
If you're craving traditional Tuscan meats after a day of wine tasting, Il Pozzo delivers. The atmosphere is relaxed, the portions are generous, and everything feels comfortably authentic.
Il Moro
Do you Prefer a local family where the mother cooks, the father greets guests?
This became an easy recommendation because it consistently delivers excellent food without feeling overly formal. It's simply a dependable place where locals and visitors alike enjoy great Tuscan cuisine.
Vineria Le Potazzine
Do you want to enjoy exceptional high-altitude Brunello wines by the glass paired with authentic local Tuscan dishes in a cozy, family-run setting.
One of the friendliest places we visited in Montalcino. Sitting outside with a glass of Brunello while watching the town come alive created one of those simple travel moments we'll always remember.
Campo del Drago
A high end experience with panoramic terrace overlooking lush green Tuscan hills and sloping woodlands.
A two-Michelin-star restaurant in Montalcino. 9 courses that have as their identity the story of the region with the chef's vision well-balanced land-sea pairings The final explosion of the dessert that combines chocolate with Taggiasca olives and new oil and only the closing of an extraordinary dinner pampered by a young sparkling staff never intrusive but present
Our top Montepulciano Restaurant Picks
La Vineria di Montepulciano
It you enjoy a warm, cozy atmosphere, exceptional local wines, and generous charcuterie and cheese boards
This is exactly the kind of place I hoped to find while wandering Montepulciano. Great local wines, welcoming staff, and a relaxed atmosphere make it easy to stop in for a quick tasting that turns into a leisurely lunch.
Taverna di Fucile
If your looking for authentic, farm-to-table Tuscan food, rustic farmhouse charm, and peaceful countryside views
One of Montepulciano's hidden gems. It's slightly removed from the busiest tourist streets, creating a quieter experience with outstanding food and genuinely attentive service.
Osteria Acquacheta +39 0578 717086
If you want to the best Florentine steak... look no further
Come hungry and be prepared to have fun. The famous Florentine steak is carved right at your table, conversations fill the room, and the lively atmosphere makes dinner feel like an event rather than simply a meal.
Osteria del Borgo
Looking for it authentic Tuscan home cooking, handmade pastas, and exceptional regional wine list?
Few restaurants combine great food with beautiful views as effortlessly as this one. Looking across the Tuscan countryside while enjoying Vino Nobile is an experience that perfectly captures Montepulciano.
Gattavecchi
Want in the town of Montepulciano and authentic homemade Tuscan food paired with four generations of family-crafted Vino Nobile
Dining inside one of Montepulciano's historic wine cellars is something every wine lover should experience at least once. The setting is unforgettable, and enjoying local wines where they've been stored for generations adds another layer to the meal.
Le Logge del Vignola
For a refined evening of a modern twists on traditional Tuscan cuisine, intimate and romantic atmosphere, and an extensive wine cellar
A Michelin-listed Montepulciano restaurant and one of the area’s refined dining choices
