Where to Eat and Drink

You cannot overlook the fact that a glass of the delightful local winer is actually cheaper than a bottle of water!. So here is a bit of information so you don´t miss out.
San Gimignano’s Vernaccia,  highly considered by many, it was a favourite of Michelangelo, Boccaccio, Pope Paul III and even Saint Catherine of Siena. Smooth and aromatic white wine (DOC and DOCG wine).

Vino Nobile di Montepulciano, whose admirers included Pope Pablo III, Francesco Redi, Voltaire, Martin van Buren and Thomas Jefferson, became nobile in the 1700s. Unfortunately, not all the bottles produced are of the best quality, yet there are still some which are world class.

The Brunello di Montalcino, is considered one of the best wines worldwide produced from the grapes typically grown around Montalcino. Only a few are lucky enough to be able to afford a bottle, not to mention a 1940 or 1955 vintage.


Enoteca Gustavo (tel. 0577 94 00 57;Via San Matteo 29) has an extensive wine list to choose from and your drinks can be accompanied with a delicious snack. There is both an indoor dining hall and tables alfresco.

Gelateria di Piazza (tel. 0577 94 22 44; Piazza della Cisterna 4, open Mar-mid Nov) has been visited by celebrities from all around the world. This is not altogether surprising however as the ice cream is simply perfect. Its products are made with the best quality ingredients and there are  a huge variety of flavours, including some wacky ones.

Le Vecchie Mura (tel. 0577 94 02 70; www.vecchiemura.it; Via Pandornella 15, open dinner closed Tue) provides dinners with delightful views while they enjoy tasty dishes and a tempting wine list with many varieties of Vavernaccia di San Gimignano. Reservations are a must.

Osteria al Carcere (tel. 0577 94 19 05, Via del Castello 5; closed Thu lunch and Wed) has skilfully prepared dishes at reasonable prices. Its menu is not long but features different soups and creative dishes.

Osteria delle Catene (tel. 0577 94 19 66; osteriadellecatene.oster@tin.it; Via Mainardi 18; open Thu-Tue and Mar-mid Dec) specializes in meat with a menu including hare, rabbit, boar, and duck. Its atmosphere is attractive with soft light to create a very pleasant ambience.

The wine bar-cum-restaurant Il Castello (tel. 0577 94 08 78; enotecailcastello@iol.it; Via del Castello 20; closed mid Jun-Feb ) serves hearty dishes such as the famous bistecca alla florentina and much more. Both the patio with its views or the glass-roofed courtyard are lovely spots to enjoy a meal.

Head for Trattoria la Mangiatoia (tel. 0577 94 15 28; Via Mainardi 5; closed Tue Nov-Jan) to feast on regional dishes in the lromantic atmosphere of shimmering candles and classical music.

Il Pino (tel. 0577 94 04 15; Via Cellolese 8-10; closed Thu) is very popular due to the winning combination of good service, a pleasant atmosphere and a menu which among classic dishes includes some specialities focusing on rich truffles.

Dorando (tel. 0577 94 18 62; www.ristorantedorando.it; Viccolo dell’Oro 2; open every day Easter-Oct and Tue-Sun Oct-Easter), has been praised by the Slow Food movement, and features a menu based on ancient Etruscan recipes. The restaurant itself is decorated with attractive art and its tables are all pleasantly private.

The wine bar DiVinorum (Piazza della Cisterna 30; open 11am-midnight every day Mar-Oct, Fri-Sun Nov-Feb) is located in a set of former stables, completely remodelled. It has a great terrace.