Simone works at the bar down the street, where every day he serves hundreds of cafè, macchiati and capuccini to the students from the neighbouring all-girl high-school. Despite being born and raised in Lucca, he is a fierce tifoso of AC Milan.

Lombardo

For a great meal at a reasonable price Simone recommends "Lombardo" in Pieve Santo Stefano. "This place is great for both families and single guys like me. The atmosphere is really warm and welcoming. The dishes are traditionaly Luccheses, simply done and made always with fresh ingredients. The menu changes too based on the season. The wine menu is pretty diverse with good wines starting at just 10.00 euros a bottle. My favorite dishes are: "Il farro", "Tortelli al Ragu", and the "Antipasti Misti". For an appetizer, main course, dessert, wine and coffee, I usually pay about 30.00 euros per person. The interior is rustic Tuscan with exposed wood beam ceilings, exposed brick walls, and an outdoor terrace for eating outside when the weather is fine. Great views that overlook the hills of Lucca.

posted by gina, 2005-02-24