Taste Tuscany: August's Insider Guide to Local Dining Gems

For Breakfast

Pasticceria Giovannini 

Corso Giacomo Matteotti, Montecatini | +39 0572 78948

This treasure is recommended by one of our Premium Homeowners, who deems it the perfect place to watch the morning world go by. Enjoy breakfast and an espresso and immerse yourself in the authentic local ambiance of Montecatini, and let it quickly feel like “your'' Italian city. Pasticceria Giovannini’s owners take pride in upholding five generations of tradition, infusing this establishment with a sense of significance beyond being just a pastry shop. 

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Pasticceria Taddeucci 

Piazza San Michele, Lucca | +39 0583 494933

Established in 1881, this pastry shop remedies any early morning sweet craving. Under the skilled guidance of pastry chef Giacomo Fanucchi Taddeucci, the reputation of this time-honoured pasticceria has been transformed. Within its burnished interiors, quality persists, earning it a spot in this guide. We highly recommend you indulge in their speciality, the Buccellato - a sweet loaf of bread with raisins and aniseed - and enjoy this with a coffee to start your morning.

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For Lunch

Trattoria il Mercato 

Piazza Mercato del Bestiame, Borgo A Buggiano | +39 0572 32050

Trattoria il Mercato reveres the essence of traditional Tuscan cuisine and is a cherished hotspot among the locals. With its unassuming interiors and a short menu, this restaurant allows you to appreciate authentic food without complications, for a fully immersive dining experience.

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Trattoria da Giulio

Via delle Conce, Lucca | +39 0583 55948

In 1945, Trattoria da Giulio first opened its doors in Lucca, initially preparing breakfast for the industrious workers of the town in the early hours of the morning. Almost eight decades later, this restaurant continues to present traditional Lucchese dishes with an unwavering commitment to the essence of each ingredient. For an experience that encapsulates the lively spirit of this multi-generational trattoria, we recommend dining here for Sunday lunch.

For Dinner

Il Maialetto 

Via della Repubblica, Monsummano Terme | +39 0572 953849

Recommended by August’s CEO, Mélie, this family-operated business proudly owns both the restaurant and the neighbouring butcher’s shop. The menu features Tuscan cuisine that is centred around home-produced meat. Ensure you secure a reservation at least a day in advance and arrive with a hearty appetite. Allow the team running this local favourite to guide you through their daily recommendations.

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Buca di Sant’Antonio

Via della Cervia, Lucca | +39 0583 55881

Max, the Head of Design at August, recommends Buca di Sant’Antonio as his personal favourite restaurant in the area. This spot also happens to be one of the oldest restaurants in Lucca. Dine under a sea of shiny, copper cooking pots and enjoy the array of sumptuous meat dishes that offer a truly traditional Tuscan treat. We strongly advise you to secure a reservation, as this beloved restaurant is a favourite of many beyond the August team.

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Cibus

Corso Giacomo Matteotti, Montecatini Terme | +39 0572 78744

Cibus stands as a favourite of the entire August team.This unpretentious gem excels in the art of making impeccable pizzas and pastas. At the forefront of the team’s recommendation is the Pasta all’Amatriciana - a dish combining Italy’s most renowned ingredients: the finest olive oil, succulent guanciale, ripe tomatoes and strong pecorino. Prepare for a delicious evening, as Cibus, although modest, will not disappoint. 

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Dreaming of dining like a local? Explore our Collections that feature this enchanting region and book a call with an Advisor to find out more. 

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