Italy, and in particular Tuscany, is spoiled for great produce. Belvedere is very fortunate to be surrounded by notable restaurants and chefs. While we offer just a few suggestions here, Eugenia will be more than happy to help you choose the right restaurant for any preferences you may have.
Closest to the Farmhouse
Photo courtesy of Phil Whitehouse
Panoramic
10min drive - Google map
This is our local buzzing pizzeria with a very friendly host and al fresco dining. We recommend to book as in the summer months it gets really busy. It is very child friendly and the menu offers great choice in addition to a great variety of pizzas. Mosquitoes can be annoying, so you might want to bring repellant to prevent your ankles from being savaged.
Via Salaiola, 144, Empoli. Closed on Monday, +39 0571 589553.
Photo courtesy of Maggio7
Borgo San Giusto
15min drive - Google map
This is a small ‘borgo’ (Italian village) that has been newly renovated with typical Tuscan colours. Here you can find a small wine bar, ideal for nibbles and a glass of local wine. Alternatively there is a restaurant which serves good steak and mixed meat grills.
Via Salaiola, 151 Empoli. Closed on Monday, +39 0571 1720770
Our Favourites
Quattro Gigli
This charming restaurant, with a panoramic terrace, offers the choice of a very original reinterpretation of typical tuscan dishes, excellent charcuteries and renaissance recipes, all accompanied by an incredible wine selection. Please book well ahead to secure a table for al fresco dining.
P.zza Michele da Montopoli, 2 56020 Montopoli in Val d'Arno(PI) +39 0571-466.878/466.940
www.quattrogigli.it
Osteria San Vivaldo
A simple and somewhat chaotic osteria where Andrea, the owner, will welcome you, serving local dishes with a smile, a shout or a whistle. The best local ingredients are used, yet it's very affordable. The location is in breathtaking countryside, and you can go for a walk to the ‘Sacro Monte’ of San Vivaldo where a group of small chapels containing terracotta statues - dated 1500 - replicate the Passion of Christ.
Via San Vivaldo, 21/23, Montaione (FI) + 39 0571 69264
Google Map (24km from the house)
Casa Masi
This very elegant but rustic restaurant has a charming outside area. This restaurant is a great evening out for those who want to celebrate a special occasion while tasting typical tuscan cuisine offered in a very charming atmosphere.
Via Collerucci 53, 50050 Montaione (FI) +39 0571 677170
www.casamasimontaione.it
Google Map (18km from the house)
Fine Dining
Pepenero
If your tastes lean toward fine dining, we are lucky enough to have two exceptional restaurants located just 25 minutes away in San Miniato.
The cuisine is of the very highest calibre, and in fact we are still unable to decide who is the very best. We tend to favour one or the other depending on the menu of the moment, but maybe you can try them both and help us solve our ongoing dilemma: Chef Gilberto Rossi or Chef Paolo Fiaschi?
Papaveri e Paolo
The main large photo at the start of this page section shows the main dining room.