Cantinetta del Nonno — Restaurant in San Casciano in Val di Pesa

We visited this restaurant with fond memories from a few years ago, but sadly, the experience this time left us more than disappointed.

Things started off on the wrong foot: despite having a table reservation, we were met with a sense of confusion, almost as if our presence was an inconvenience. We had asked to be seated outside, but were told—somewhat curtly—that it wasn’t possible due to incoming rain. Fair enough, we thought—until we saw several other guests being guided outside shortly after, under a perfectly blue and cloudless sky. The restaurant was less than half full when we left, so the logic behind our placement remained a mystery. We were seated near a back hallway, next to what felt like the restaurant’s service area—hardly the welcoming atmosphere we remembered.

Unfortunately, the food didn’t manage to redeem the situation. The bread was dry and tasted like it had skipped a day of freshness, and most of the pasta wasn’t any better except the truffle pasta. We had initially planned to enjoy a full meal, but after the pasta, we simply wanted to leave.

It’s disappointing to write this, especially after a lovely visit three years ago, but we can no longer recommend this restaurant—especially not to foreigners hoping for a warm and memorable experience. We won’t be returning either.

Note: I deleted my 5 star review from 3 years ago in order to have this new one with recent experience instead here, as not several reviews is not possible in...

"Waaaw", that's all I could say after finishing our meal. I think I've said it around 4 or 5 times and started to contemplate life. Never knew food could do that to you.

We arrived and saw no more tables available outside. The staff was really helpful and moved the table outside. Once seated we began an experience that blew us away.

This was hands down THE best food I've EVER eaten. Everything was masterfully prepared. Don't expect gells of this and espuma of that. No, this place brings honest, home cooked, real food. You can taste the recipes have stood their mark through time. They don't have a fancy look to them, but who cares about that if the tastes are hitting all the right notes PERFECTLY?

The dishes have brought me into a state I've never experienced before during a meal.

To conclude a perfect dinner, we were offered a complimentary limoncello.

The staff are truly proud and genuinely friendly. We drove almost an hour to get there but will do so again without a doubt.

Thank you to the whole team for a truly...

We came to this restaurant ten years ago when we were staying in San Cascionne from the recommendation of our air bnb host. We loved it so much we ended up going back twice more during that trip. The owner was really helpful, not only in helping us pick dishes and try new things but also giving advice for what to do locally. Now ten years later we still remember him and the restaurant. Although we were staying over an hour away, we drove into town just to go to that restaurant. The owner was still there! We had anotjer lovely server - super attentive, explained the menu very patiently as I kept asking many different questions. He then offered to do half portions so we could try more appetizers, which was so very appreciated...and they were all delicious. Our mains were equally delicious - the truffle pasta was loaded with truffles and my sons simple pasta ragu was super flavourful. I'm pleased our lovely memories of the place still hold true ten...