Ristorante Artemide

In the countryside outside Pontassive, this restaurant is so well noted for its excellent cuisine that people drive for miles to dine here. With its rustic, homey ambiance and country setting, it's like dining in a park in the woods, especially lovely to eat outdoors in the summer under the trees.

Inside the old farmhouse, it is cozy and warm and welcoming. This area, with its hunting lodges and fishing lakes, with vineyards and olive groves, provides great ingredients for the chefs-a pair of brothers- to work with. The wait staff is knowledgeable and helpful, providing good guidance and service. The menu is classic Tuscan but with some creative touches to keep it from getting boring. They use the seasonal goods and turn them into delectable dishes. You may find hand-cut tagliatelle pasta with truffles or porcini, or maybe plump ravioli, or a rich risotto. Main courses may highlight local lamb, wild boar or rabbit, or maybe an eggplant parmigiana. It depends on the season and the whim of the chefs but is always satisfying. Everything, from the bread to the dolci, are made in-house.

Despite its country location, it is very popular so reservations are highly recommended. Closed Tuesdays.