Victorian Style Country Inn and Restaurant

Although only 2 miles south of Lucca, this charming little Inn is tucked away in its own little quiet verdant hamlet. The main Inn is painted a light lavender and is trimmed in white. The lush grounds include a pool and elegant outdoor gazebo surrounded by a well manicured garden, perfect for an intimate ceremony. The restaurant is shaped like a rotunda with floor to ceiling windows that look out onto the garden and gazebo. The interior decoration also has a very Victorian feel with luxurious fabrics in ochre hues and light wainscoting throughout. All in all a very romantic atmosphere.

My husband and I decided to visit the restaurant to review it for the site, and here is what we found: Tables were set with large fresh flower centerpieces, candelabra, and fine china. We were greeted by the manager, Valter, who was friendly without being intrusive. He was also extremely helpful and knowledgeable when it came time to choose the wine for our meal. I felt as if I got a free mini lesson in Tuscan wines!

We chose a red wine called Terre di Matraja 2002 for 17.00 euros that had a light subtle body and a pleasant acidity. It also went very well with the meal. When we were seated we were promptly served a complimentary cod fish flavored cheese mouse which was light and delicious. For appetizers we had tuna tartar wrapped in a slice of lard of Colonnata and ravioli stuffed with ricotta and served in a butter truffle sauce. The ravioli was rich and subtle, very good. The tuna was very original with stir fried vegetables as a fresh accompaniment, a great flavor. For the main course I had the guinea hen crusted in poppy seeds in a buttery porcini mushroom sauce. Very rich and satisfying. My husband had lamb lightly breaded and grilled to perfection, tender and juicy! It was served with a polenta/spinach mixture and grilled endives that added just the right hint of sweetness to this perfect dish. We were served a complimentary dessert plate which included freshly made cantucci, the best I've ever eaten, butter cookies and mini berry vanilla cream tarts. My husband also took the chestnut cream crepes with fresh berries, you can see the photo for an idea of how good that was.

Our bill came to 127.00 euros for two adults and one child. For a special occasion, considering the overall quality of the meal, I felt that this was reasonable.

I would characterize this meal as being made with not only the freshest of ingredients but also fresh ideas that added a real pleasure to the dining experience. The service was great and the staff was very accommodating of our 3 year old son. I thoroughly enjoyed myself. If you want to treat yourselves and your wedding guests to a truly memorable and romantic meal then I would recommend this restaurant. I'm told that they also provide the catering to many of the private villas around Lucca holding events so I would definitely consider them as a high quality catering choice if you choose to go that route.