Antico Ristorante Pestello — Restaurant in Castellina in Chianti

We visit this authentic restaurant every time we spend our holiday in Tuscany. For the first time we tried as starter the Antipasti Pestello and then the Bistecca alla Fiorentina. As expected, both of the dishes were very tasteful, the steak was definitely one of the best steaks we’ve ever tried, if not the best. It was done as it supposed to be, medium rare, grilled on wood, I think it doesn’t need anymore explanation 😃. Last time we were there, we decided to give a try to the homemade pasta (tagliatelle with tuscan ragu & pici al ragu di Cinta Senese) and it was something different than we expected. It was not the typical pasta you would expect in a restaurant, it really tasted like home, just like when you visit your grandma and she cooks you something delicious, full of taste, full of love. Also very good Chianti vine, but the best part of this restaurant is probably the waiter himself. He makes sure that you feel welcomed and also entertained, in my opinion every restaurant needs a man like him. Definitely coming back next...

Dined with 10 people. 6 adults and four children. Atmosphere was great as was the service. The thing that left us extremely disappointed was the price and upsell. Standard 2 euro cover for each person. 5 plates of antipasti suggested by waiter was a tad excessive. €7.50 for a single beer is expensive. €4.00 for a coffee is expensive. €45.00 for a bottle of wine is expensive. I’m not saying don’t go, the food was just ok (not worth the prices though) as was the service, but the upsell and prices were expensive for that area. You can find many other restaurants in the area for the same size party for €175. Word of caution, check the prices and order for yourself, don’t trust the waiter to suggest portions for you, we went by suggestions not knowing it would be outrageous in price. Live and learn. Even Rome is not this...

Came across this delightful restaurant whilst on holiday with 6 friends travelling in two hired cars we stopped and parked in the park on the opposite side of the road and were met with a wave and the most welcoming smile. Nothing was to much trouble for this efficient, friendly and continually smiling host who when told that we just needed a light lunch asked that all be left to him and he would provide the best Italy could offer. He didn't disappoint and simply provided an extensive selection of light dishes which were all simply well prepared, served with his ever present smile and devoured in no time. We were surprised that so much food (and very drinkable wine) could be so inexpensive. If you are ever travelling past this restaurant then stop and find what true Italian hospitality can offer - you won't be...