Discovering Chianti: Authentic Flavors and Dreamy Stays

The Chianti region is one of the most fascinating destinations in Tuscany, a landscape of rolling hills, centuries-old vineyards, and medieval villages rich in history and tradition. Beyond its breathtaking scenery and excellent wines, Chianti also boasts an extraordinary culinary heritage, with unique flavors and intimate eateries far from the typical tourist routes.

On this journey of taste and hospitality, we’ll guide you to 10 restaurants and trattorias in Chianti where you can enjoy authentic cuisine away from the crowds, while also recommending the best historic accommodations in the area, so you can experience the perfect blend of food, culture, and relaxation.

1. Osteria Le Panzanelle – Radda in Chianti

A simple yet authentic osteria, mostly frequented by locals. Here, you’ll experience the atmosphere of a true Tuscan trattoria, with genuine dishes prepared using fresh, local ingredients. The menu features classic Tuscan specialties like ribollita and bistecca alla fiorentina, perfectly paired with excellent wines from the region.

2. Trattoria della Fonte – Panzano in Chianti

Tucked away in the hills, this trattoria is famous for its homemade pasta and wild boar dishes. Its rustic, family-run atmosphere makes it the ideal spot for those looking to savor authentic Chianti cuisine away from the tourist hustle.

Discover our hotels in Chianti for a unique weekend getaway! 🍷🏡

3. La Taverna della Berardenga – Castelnuovo Berardenga

A family-run restaurant with a warm and welcoming atmosphere. Here, you can enjoy specialties like pici cacio e pepe and a selection of local pecorino cheeses, served with honey and artisanal jams. 

4. Ristoro di Lamole – Greve in Chianti

Perched in a breathtaking panoramic location, this restaurant offers refined Tuscan cuisine made with top-quality ingredients. The pappardelle with hare sauce is a must-try for those seeking intense and authentic flavors. 

5. Il Fondaccio dai Dottori – Castellina in Chianti

A rustic yet refined venue, featuring an excellent selection of wines and a seasonal menu that changes based on the freshest local ingredients. It’s the perfect spot for those who love pairing traditional flavors with the best local wines.

Discover our hotels in Chianti for a unique weekend getaway! 🍷🏡  

6. L’Antica Scuderia – Badia a Passignano

Next to the ancient abbey, this restaurant blends tradition and innovation with dishes like Chianina beef fillet with truffle. The exclusive location and high-quality cuisine make it a must-visit for lovers of Tuscan gastronomy.

7. Osteria Il Papavero – San Donato in Poggio

A small hidden osteria nestled among the village alleys, known for its homemade cuisine and warm hospitality. Its intimate atmosphere and lovingly prepared dishes make it the perfect spot for a romantic dinner.

8. Officina della Bistecca – Panzano in Chianti

If you’re a meat lover, this is the place for you: Dario Cecchini’s legendary bistecca alla fiorentina is a true institution. This unique culinary experience is enhanced by a theatrical presentation that makes the meal even more special.

Discover our hotels in Chianti for a unique weekend getaway! 🍷🏡

9. La Cantinetta di Rignana – Rignana

Nestled among vineyards, this trattoria boasts a stunning view and serves traditional dishes made with farm-to-table ingredients. The combination of breathtaking landscapes and authentic flavors makes it the perfect place for a relaxing lunch.

10. Il Carlino d’Oro – Gaiole in Chianti

A small hidden restaurant in the hills, perfect for a peaceful lunch with spectacular views and unforgettable Tuscan dishes. The cuisine reflects local traditions, using only the freshest ingredients.

A Journey Through Flavors and History

Chianti is more than just a destination; it’s a sensory experience of aromas, flavors, and unforgettable landscapes. Exploring its authentic culinary tradition also means immersing yourself in its rich history and timeless hospitality.

If you want to experience Chianti in the most authentic way, we recommend choosing one of the region’s stunning historic residences. After a perfect dinner at one of these recommended trattorias, there’s nothing better than unwinding in a historic relais, surrounded by the rolling Tuscan hills.

Discover our exclusive accommodations in Chianti and book your unforgettable stay! 🍷🏡

10 Places to Eat Well Off the Tourist Track in Milan

Milan is a city full of restaurants, but tourists often end up in the usual well-known spots—crowded places where the food doesn’t always live up to expectations and, more importantly, where they miss out on hidden gems that offer truly authentic experiences. These are the places where you can savor traditional flavors and aromas that tell a story of history and tradition.

If you're looking for the 10 best spots in Milan to eat and drink well while avoiding tourist traps, here are ten must-visit addresses.

1. Trippa

If you love traditional Milanese cuisine with a modern twist, Trippa is the place for you. It has a relaxed atmosphere, reinvented classic dishes, and a frequently changing menu that ensures fresh and high-quality ingredients.

2. Osteria del Treno

Just a short walk from the Central Station, this historic osteria serves classic Lombard dishes in an authentic setting. Here, you can enjoy risottos, cassoeula, and braised meats paired with excellent wines.

3. Mangiari di Strada

A small temple of gourmet street food, offering top-quality ingredients and flavors inspired by both Italian and international cuisine. Perfect for a quick yet high-quality meal.

For a complete experience, pair dinner at one of these restaurants with an overnight stay in a Dimore d'Epoca hotel, where you can relax and soak in Milan's unique atmosphere.

4. Al Mercato

This restaurant blends the best of Italian and international cuisine with a street food soul. Known for its gourmet burgers, it also offers creative and well-crafted dishes.

5. Trattoria Mirta

Tucked away in the Casoretto district, this trattoria offers seasonal and genuine cuisine, with a daily-changing menu. The warm service and cozy ambiance make it the perfect spot for a relaxing lunch.

6. Ratanà

Located in a former Milanese tenement house, this restaurant specializes in modern Milanese cuisine using high-quality local ingredients. Chef Cesare Battisti brings authentic dishes to the table with a contemporary touch.

7. Il Brutto Anatroccolo

A no-frills, authentic osteria where you can eat well without spending a fortune. The menu changes often and features simple yet flavorful traditional Italian dishes.

For a complete experience, pair dinner at one of these restaurants with an overnight stay in a Dimore d'Epoca hotel, where you can relax and soak in Milan's unique atmosphere.

8. Antica Osteria Il Ronchettino

A countryside escape in the heart of Milan, serving traditional Lombard dishes made with fresh and genuine ingredients. The rustic and welcoming ambiance makes the experience even more enjoyable.

9. Osteria Conchetta

If you want to try one of the best risottos alla Milanese, this is the place to go. The osteria is famous for its risotto al salto, where the rice is pan-fried to create a delicious crispy crust.

10. Il Santo Bevitore

A casual bistro with an excellent selection of natural wines and creative dishes, perfect for those looking for something different from the usual dining experience.

Milan is full of authentic, high-quality restaurants off the beaten tourist track. Try one of these spots and let yourself be surprised by the true flavors of the city!

Discover more and book your stay for an authentic and unforgettable experience!

Florence is one of the most beloved cities in the world, with its extraordinary history, Renaissance art, and, of course, Tuscan cuisine. However, between crowded restaurants and tourist traps, it can be challenging to find authentic places to enjoy excellent food without falling into the usual "tourist pitfalls." If you want to eat well and have a more genuine gastronomic experience, here are 10 off-the-beaten-path spots that are absolutely worth a visit.

1. Trattoria Mario

📍 Address: Via Rosina, 2r
🍽 Why go: A Florentine institution since 1953, with a daily changing menu and a lively, no-frills atmosphere. Perfect for tasting an authentic bistecca alla fiorentina (Florentine steak) or a hearty ribollita at fair prices.

2. Ristorante Cibrèo Trattoria

2. Ristorante Cibrèo Trattoria

📍 Address: Via del Verrocchio, 8r
🍽 Why go: The more casual version of the famous Cibrèo, offering the same excellent quality in a simpler setting. The fish soup and meatloaf are among the most popular dishes.

3. Osteria Vini e Vecchi Sapori

📍 Address: Via dei Magazzini, 3r
🍽 Why go: A small restaurant with just a few tables and lovingly prepared home-style dishes. Don’t miss the fresh pasta and rabbit alla cacciatora.

To enjoy a complete experience, pair dinner at one of these restaurants with an overnight stay at a Dimore d'Epoca hotel, where you can relax and immerse yourself in the city's unique atmosphere.

4. Da Burde

📍 Address: Via Pistoiese, 154
🍽 Why go: A historic trattoria outside the city center, loved by locals. It offers an excellent selection of wines and traditional dishes such as peposo (slow-cooked beef stew with black pepper) and lampredotto.

5. Trippaio del Porcellino

📍 Address: Piazza del Mercato Nuovo
🍽 Why go: A historic food stall serving lampredotto sandwiches, a true Florentine street food institution.

6. Ristorante Persé

📍 Address: Via di Mezzo, 24b
🍽 Why go: A modern take on Tuscan cuisine, featuring top-quality ingredients in a cozy and refined setting.

To enjoy a complete experience, pair dinner at one of these restaurants with an overnight stay at a Dimore d'Epoca hotel, where you can relax and immerse yourself in the city's unique atmosphere.

7. Trattoria Sabatino

📍 Address: Via Pisana, 2r
🍽 Why go: A family-run trattoria offering simple yet delicious dishes. The low prices and authenticity make it a hidden gem.

8. Osteria Tripperia Il Magazzino

📍 Address: Piazza della Passera, 2
🍽 Why go: Specializing in offal-based dishes, this is a must-visit for those who want to taste real Florentine food. Their lampredotto sandwich is a standout.

9. Ristorante La Vecchia Bettola

📍 Address: Viale Vasco Pratolini, 3/5
🍽 Why go: This place embodies the true spirit of old Florence, with a down-to-earth atmosphere and rich flavors. Their pasta alla Bettola is a must-try.

10. Alla Vecchia Maniera

📍 Address: Via dei Serragli, 108r
🍽 Why go: A small, family-run osteria perfect for those looking for an intimate and authentic experience. The wild boar stew is a real treat.

Exploring Florence through its food is an experience that goes beyond the typical tourist trails. These restaurants and trattorias are perfect for savoring authentic dishes in a genuine atmosphere, away from the crowds. If you want to experience Florence like a true local, take your time and enjoy a memorable meal in one of these hidden culinary gems. Buon appetito!

Celebrate Love in Verona, the City of Romeo and Juliet!

This Valentine’s Day, let Verona cast its spell on you. Known as the city of Romeo and Juliet, Verona is a timeless destination for romance. Picture yourself strolling through charming cobblestone streets, sharing moments on historic bridges, and discovering hidden corners steeped in history and passion. Are you ready to make this Valentine’s Day unforgettable with these unique and romantic experiences?

3 Unique and Romantic Things to Do in Verona:

A Private Dinner on Top of Torre dei Lamberti

1. Elevate your Valentine’s Day—literally—with an exclusive dining experience atop the Torre dei Lamberti. Indulge in fine Italian cuisine as you take in breathtaking panoramic views of Verona’s twinkling lights. The 84-meter-high tower offers the perfect backdrop for a declaration of love or even a proposal!

A Secret Tour of Giusti Garden

1. Escape into a serene and enchanting world at Giusti Garden, one of the most romantic hidden gems in Verona. Stroll through its Renaissance pathways, lose yourself in its maze, and enjoy intimate moments surrounded by lush greenery and historic sculptures. Don’t forget to visit the terrace, where you’ll find a stunning view of the city—perfect for a photo with your special someone.

Leave Your Love Message on Juliet’s Wall

Follow in the footsteps of countless lovers and write a heartfelt message on Juliet’s Wall, near her legendary balcony. It’s a symbolic gesture that links your story to Verona’s legacy of love. Pair this with a visit to Juliet’s House and immerse yourself in the timeless romance of Shakespeare’s most famous couple.

Turn Your Valentine’s Day into an Italian Love Story!
Verona is more than a destination—it’s an experience of a lifetime, especially for couples seeking romance. Let us help you create memories that will last forever with a tailor-made journey filled with charm, passion, and Italian elegance.

Don’t wait—book your unforgettable Valentine’s getaway with us today!