Had a wonderful family meal for 10 people here on Assumption Day, sat on the outdoor terrace. A memorable evening for so many reasons: the food was fabulous, the town was bustling and we had a front-row seat and a super talented musical duo appeared in the piazza right next to us and serenaded us while we ate (Grazie Claudio and Lorenzo!). The two waitresses took really great care of us and were very amenable and patient, especially while the inevitable "inside or outside?" debate raged across the group (definitely sit outside!). The main concern about mosquitos was allayed when the lovely waitress gave us some insect repellent spray. Across the group we ate from the antipasto, primi and secondo menus, with the stand-outs including: Pappardelle with cinghiale (wild boar), Tagliata di chianina with cipolla di tropea and melanzane affumicate (beef with onion and smoked aubergine), Agnello with verdure di stagione (lamb with seasonal vegetables), Spaghetti alle vongole (spaghetti with clams) and Tataki di tonno with pesca and passion fruit (tuna tataki with fruit and fennel). The Risotto was nice, but with only three prawns added the recipient felt cheated and the Ombrina (croaker) fish needed a much crispier skin said that diner. In terms of drinks: great Aperol Spritzes, but the Old Fashioned and the Cosmopolitans needed a lot of work said the drinkers. Great wine selection and coffee. Go for the very warm hospitality, ambience and leisurely...
Read moreOn my first night in Cortona my parents and I randomly stopped here for dinner, not knowing anything about the restaurants in the area. It delivered on every level. I had the Gnocchetti and was pleasantly surprised by the large portion size. On my last night in Cortona I knew I wanted to return for my final meal of the trip. This time I ordered one of the chianina beef dishes from their special menu and was blown away; one of the best steaks I've ever had. Our server, Danilo, remembered us from our first time there and was incredibly kind and a perfect representation of the great hospitality Italy is known for. I would be looking forward to return to Italy even to just go back to this restaurant. Great outdoor seating, large portions sizes that are fairly priced, and a very welcoming staff. Don't be deceived by the included pic; the steak was huge...
Read moreQuanto Basta's shaded outdoor patio overlooking Piazza Garibaldi is alluring. Yet it's also the first restaurant most encounter, situated at the threshold of Cortona's Via Nazionale, and one might be tempted to keep walking to discover other worthy options. Go ahead, but make a mental note to return and allow this outstanding staff to demonstrate their talents. The setting is cozy and quiet despite its proximity to the adjacent hustle and bustle. Service is warm, knowledgeable and attentive. No one on the team missed a beat. The food is fresh. Each dish offered wonderfully rich flavors. And the tell tale sign was how long we lingered. And we were not alone. Many great choices in Cortona. QB deserves your...
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