Lalma Cafe & Tea Room — Restaurant in Unione dei Comuni Valdichiana Senese

We were a little nervous since we were told to be careful of locations that served american breakfasts (like omelettes/scrambled eggs and meat, rather than just pastries) but this location deliberately caters well to foreigners without losing Italian authenticity! The owner was born and raised here in Montepulciano and offers a very hospitable experience.

Again, with foreigners in mind, they serve water. The cappuccino and espresso were great. I was nervous of my pick but want an authentic experience and had the panini with pork, capers and anchovy sauce and it was incredible. The carrot cake was the best I've ever had. Usually in the U.S. carrot cake is an overly sweet dessert. This carrot cake was not overly sweet and made for a great breakfast option that didn't feel overly heavy. My wife had a croissant. This was the fluffiest most buttery croissant we've tasted while visiting italy (we spent several days in Rome.) Most croissants have been hard and crumble apart. But this one was so light with perfect texture. The ambiance of this location was quite adorable and spotless. Visiting Italy, it is hard to justify revisiting a location with so many places to see, but we will definitely return...

I visited Lalma in the summer of 2023 while on my honeymoon in Montepulciano—a year after our wedding. This lovely little café was recommended by our Airbnb host, and I’m so glad we followed the tip. My husband and I were heading out of town and looking for a nice spot to grab something before our travels, and Lalma happened to be one of the only cafés open at that hour. Not only were they open, but they welcomed us with open arms—literally.

The owner greeted us with such genuine warmth, and I immediately felt at home, which isn’t always the case when you’re a tourist. It was a simple but meaningful experience that stayed with me all this time. The food was delicious, the presentation beautiful, and the atmosphere absolutely charming. Every corner of the space felt intentional, calming, and cozy—just what we needed on our last day.

I meant to write this review so much sooner, but life got in the way. Still, I often think of that café and the peaceful, welcoming experience we had. This review is a promise kept—to the kind owner who made us feel like friends, not just customers. I truly hope we get to return one day. Thank you, Lalma, for being a sweet and memorable part of...

I definitely recommend Lalma Cafè. The food is beautifully cooked and presented, there is something for most people, vegetarians are well catered for.. The food is the real food of modern Italy, with international influences. It still retains the Italian focus on fresh, simple ingredients, perfectly cooked. Everyone is welcomed, the staff are happy to explain the dishes and what is in them, all in several different languages. They're also happy to give you ideas to orientate you. My dog loved the walks that they suggested! And even more, the way they made her as welcome as I felt. The cafe is stylish and comfortable, lovely colours, with a backdrop of green from a hidden Montepulciano garden. Just beware: the cafe is open mornings and lunchtimes! So if you want to try the delicious cakes, then morning coffee...