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Vineyards, woods, olive groves: These are the sweet hills of the Chianti region that can be admired from the large terrace of our restaurant. La Cantinetta is located in Rignana, in the heart of the Chianti Classico area, between Panzano and Mercatale Val di Pesa,in an area that still fascinates because nature and man live there together in harmony.

The first settlements of the town date back to the 10th century, when the Fattoria di Rignana (Rignana Farm) is mentioned in several documents as one of the castles that made up the Lega di Val di Greve (Val di Greve League).

At La Cantinetta time seems to have stopped: created in an ancient construction that was formerly used as an oil mill, the restaurant preserves its ages-old appeal.

Born from a skilful restoration which respected the original structure, every detail illustrates our dedication to offering you, every day, quality service and an environment to which it is a pleasure to return.

The passion for good things has always been a part of our household. My father, Paolo Abbarchini, who initially owned a grocery store in San Frediano, one of the most characteristic quarters of Florence, started his first restaurant together with my mother in the 1980s. A love of cooking was handed down to me from my parents, with whom I worked side by side, and, today, at the stove of La Cantinetta there is me, Massimo, together with my sons, Lorenzo and Cosimo: in this way, the recipes are handed down from generation to generation with respect to the quality and the local, traditional food and wine that has made us famous throughout the world.

The dishes we offer trace itineraries of excellence in the Chianti region, tell its story, evoke its smells: we cook as one used to cook. The recipes have taken their secrets from the country tradition and the dishes are made exclusively with ingredients that are in season: we have the ability to cook them in a way that brings out their authentic flavour, thereby offering you a series of little discoveries.

There are valleys and towns in Chianti that will capture your fantasy, expose you to stunning landscapes and offer you the best of the warm and welcoming Tuscan hospitality. San Donato in Poggio is definitely one of these wonderful little places. The town has maintained much of its classical medieval architecture and has incorporated delicious restaurants, and interesting shops.

At La Locanda di Pietracupa the typical and the imagination join forces in the restaurant in a sensorial journey in pursuit of the aesthetic perception of taste. The dishes, revisited through the expert hands of Monica and Franca in some new and original ideas, follow the seasons and the availability of locally produced raw materials. Even the wine list, consisting of over 250 labels, reveals how particular emphasis is placed on local wines, as well as on the careful selection of Italian and foreign houses.

You will be welcomed by Massimiliano and Luca in the comfortable interior dining room, in the beautiful Winter Garden and in the summer, in the refreshing surroundings of the magnificent terrace overlooking the medieval village of San Donato in Poggio. You will also be pampered by friendly members of staff.

“The main Italian restaurant guides ignore this unassuming Chianti restaurant, but that’s their loss: this is one of the best restaurants within an hour of Florence. Menus change with the seasons, but some dishes are ever-present, such as the simple but delicious cipolle di Tropea al forno, slow-baked for several hours until the red onions are soft and caramelised. Come here for a special meal without pretension or the price tag that often mars the experience.”  Conde Nast Traveller

 

Cooking classes are also offered at this restaurant. Have a look: