3 Best Restaurants in Castellina in Chianti, Tuscany

The fact that the dining room can seat only about 35 guests makes a meal here an intimate experience, and the ever-changing menu mixes traditional and creative dishes. In late September and October, zuppa di funghi e castagne (mushroom and chestnut soup) is a treat; grilled meats and seafood are on offer throughout the year. There's also an excellent wine list. When the weather is warm, make sure you dine on the terrace.

Grilled meat dishes are the specialty at this popular restaurant, with a bistecca alla fiorentina (served very rare, as always) taking pride of place; paired with grilled fresh porcini mushrooms when in season (spring and fall), it's a heady dish. The panoramic terrace is a good choice for dining in summer. Inside, the upper floor offers an unmistakably Tuscan setting, while the downstairs is more modern and intimate. Reservations are essential in July and August.

As the name suggests, you'll find this small restaurant under the arches of Castellina's medieval walkway, and the eatery's vaulted ceilings make for a particularly romantic setting. The menu is short and eminently Tuscan, with typical soups and pasta dishes. The costolette di agnello alle erbe (herbed lamb chops) are especially tasty.