A Palazzo

In April, 2005 I visited this unassuming restaurant primarily because all my Italian friends would not stop talking about it. I was intrigued because it had absolutely no presence in any of the guide books or on the Internet, and yet everyone I talked to seemed to speak highly of it. I was so impressed by the quality of the food, service, and atmosphere, that I decided to include this small restaurant as a recommended wedding venue. For those looking to have a truly authentic Tuscan Wedding experience right down to the homemade Tuscan Wedding Cake by Maria Angela, the owner and chef, then look no further than A Palazzo.

A Palazzo is perched high up on one of the Lucchese hills and overlooks the entire valley. On a clear day, you can see the city of Lucca from the restaurant. The building itself dates back to 1000 A.D. and the interior still has all of the original stone walls from that date. There were no tourists when we visited, just Italian families enjoying a leisurely Sunday lunch. The interior dinning room has a low exposed wood beam ceiling, stone walls, and is decorated with a few good ceramic pieces. The tables are spaced amply apart and decorated with fresh flowers. In summer, there is also a beautiful covered terrace that overlooks the valley below, with enough tables to allow at least 25 people to dine comfortably. The service is efficient and friendly. The view from the terrace is spectacular.

A sample of the selections available on the menu includes: Antipasto Misto that comes on 3 different plates: one plate has several different homemade sauces to spread on the crostini toast that accompanied it. There is a tomato, caper, anchovy spread that is a little spicy, a refreshing, light tomato basil spread , a rich cheese polenta spread, and a delicate porcini mushroom spread. The second plate has local prosciutto crudo and salami. The third is a canape of smoked swordfish marinated in lemon and olive oil with onions. For the main dish, try the stewed wild boar in tomatoes and olives with a side of roasted potatoes. The stew is well done, and the potatoes are really crispy and covered in a rosemary rub. Or try the roast lamb and roasted vegetables. The lamb is cooked to perfection and lightly seasoned with herbs and salt. The vegetables are tangy and slightly spicy. Let Maria Angela choose a local Lucchese wine to go with your meal and you won't be disappointed.

My overall opinion is that this restaurant is a rare gem not to be missed. The quality of the food was fresh and well prepared. The atmosphere is completely unpretentious, laid back and convivial. The one word I would use to characterize this restaurant would be authentic. No gimmicks or trappings, just great food, a fabulous view and a rustic atmosphere.

The owner and chef, Maria Angela, has already organized one wedding reception at A Palazzo for an American couple who wanted a uniquely Tuscan experience but without paying the now all too common exhorbitent Tuscan prices. I'd recommend this restaurant as an ideal place for a rehearsal dinner or an informal wedding reception.

Opening Hours: April 18 - October 18: Every day except Wednesday for lunch and dinner. October 19 - April 17: Wednesday closed. Weekdays only dinner served. Weekends lunch and dinner served.

Credit Cards: Yes, Visa