Lucchese wining & dining by an insider | Lucca
The finest Lucchese trattorias, bars and restaurants
By Roberto Payer | Hotelier | Luxury consultant for EMEA Hilton hotels
Giardino Garzoni
Discover the best restaurants, trattorias, and bars in Lucca in Italy. Be inspired by this enchanting city's rich cultural history and culinary tradition.
Lucca is famous for its intact Renaissance city walls and preserved old town dating back to Roman times. The town was also the birthplace of some of Italy’s most celebrated composers, such as Puccini and Boccherini.
Well-travelled Italian Roberto Payer, the Luxury consultant for EMEA Hilton hotels, who ran Waldorf Astoria in Amsterdam for many years, shows us around the town where he lives part-time. Eat & drink like a true local.
Where to eat and go for a drink
TRATTORIA DA LEO
Hidden away in a small alley is this charming trattoria specializing in highly local dishes. It has grown such a reputation for being a local place that it ironically now attracts quite some tourists. Nevertheless, this is still a fine place to enjoy Lucchese cuisine surrounded by an authentic local crowd.
BUCA DI SANT ANTONIO
An authentic Italian classic since 1782, visited by many locals. Primarily focused on mouth-watering meat and daily fresh, handmade pasta dishes. A bit on the expensive side for locals, but definitely worth it.
RISTORANTE GIGLIO
Modern cuisine, but still with an Italian feel. Ran by three chefs, they nabbed one Michelin star for their winning combination of Italian recipes with French methods of preparation. Especially recommended in the spring and the summer, as their terrace is very pleasant.
GLI ORTI DI VIA ELISA
Local crowd and food, drenched in Lucchese wine and olive oil. They have a spacious interior, and also a few seats outside with spectacular views.
TURANDOT
A charming cafe and bar, with outside seating right on a city square. Enjoy a classically prepared drink while taking in the city.
ANTICA LOCANDA DI SESTO
Roberto’s absolute favourite. Beyond the city’s walls you’ll find this true family restaurant serving pure and local slow food. Chef Aurelio Barattini cooks like no other, using their own wine: Morellino.
BUTTERFLY
Located outside city walls in Marlia, in a beautiful countryside mansion with spacious seating inside and out. Awarded one Michelin star, the quality and creativity is high level.
What to do
GIARDINO GARZONI
A half-hour drive away from Lucca you’ll find this beautiful villa and its garden. A real technical marvel, with a hydraulic irrigation system laid down in the 18th century that powers waterfalls and feeds plants on many different levels.
VILLA REALI DI MARLIA
A glamorous restored villa with lavish gardens, open for visit. You can stroll around, get a tour or go to one of musical or dining events. An upscale experience for those who want to experience the dolce vita.
FABBRICA DI SAN MARTINO
Agricultural tourism at its finest. This beautiful wine estate welcomes visitors to its 18th century farmhouses for tours, wine tastings and more.
VILLA MONTEVIGNA
Roberto’s villa. Roberto “My own Lucchese experience with the greatest views imaginable.”
INNOVAZIONE VERSILIA - Forte dei Marmi
Take a small detour to Forte Dei Marmi for this shop which sells the finest bed linen and homeware. Their iconic designs can be seen in many beach clubs and classic hotels.
Gallery by Roberto Payer
