Dinner with Dario at PENZANO Toscana - If there is a heaven ....... In the Chianti area of Tuscany in the a small town of PENZANO lies a very special restaurant, eating in this restaurant equals stepping at heaven doors and here is why.For many years I have been traveling in Tuscany & Umbria enjoying its unique atmosphere and cuisine , I tasted the Bistecca Alla Fiorentinain in a dozens of restaurants and villas where we were hosted, while we learn the secrets of its preparation. Always in the background appeared the name Dario ,which I learned to appreciate long before we met. Dario decided years ago to continue his family tradition as a butcher but he later turns out to be much more than that.Not only the fact that he sends steaks by air to the USA, but his decision to preserve a long disappearing tradition in Italy made me adore him. In one of my trips we decided that time has come and we must meet him.

the Agriturismo Az. iL Querciollo were we stayed

We drove out from our Agriturismo Az. iL Querciollo were we stayed To the town of PENZANO crossing the winding Tuscan dense forests roads .     We arrived and entered the meat shop across the restaurant where a warm and tasty welcome was expecting us.

Principesa Talma inside SOLOCICCIA Dario & Aizenman

Dario and his wife met us with huge smiles and warmth, they poured a glass of Chianti and encouraged us to taste the classic Italian meat delicacies which were generously arranged - sliced sausage, Porcheta , homemade cheeses, breads and more wine. meeting with us caused his heart to overflow. Beyond the charming personality Dario participates in Humanitarian activities . While crossing the street toward the restaurant , Dario continued to treat us like a good Jewish mother.

Dario in his Antica Macelleria Cecchini - Panzano in front of SOLOCICCIA

The restaurant is located in the building across the street from a meat shop where the reception took place . It has a glass floor and two rooms that each has one large table for 10-12 guests .There are no standard tables but a gathering of dinner guests which all sit down around a big table .

At first we were a little embarrassed but slowly the atmosphere was thawed as we were sitting in an international company with two Italians and two Austrians and five Swedish . 

The meal began with bowls of sliced vegetables when each diner has a little bowl next to the plate in which he put a little olive oil, salt and pepper and dip the vegetables .

Then slowly but endless dishes procession began, brochette, meats, vegetable dishes and meat dishes. All this accompanied by fine local wine .

Around the table on the left the Italians , Austrians and on the right the Sweden's . all so nice

As dinner continued so Relations among the guests, a jolly Group of people that speaks about life, it took a little longer to connect with the Austrians, of course, the Italians were very happy, only the Swedish were obsessive for their national food... Meatballs. we had a wine produced by the Italian Army, At least it's better than an army that does wars ....

We had a wonderful evening without politics and tensions. For dessert we had special liqueurs - one of them produced by the Italian army as well and of Course the famous Torta De La Nonna cake.The meal continued approximately two hours, it was difficult to finish until the waiter suggested Its time ... and got an smiley answered …. " we are staying … you can leave … "

*All rights reserved to Italy-Vacation 2010

The great experience of meeting with Dario and especially partners from different countries in addition to wonderful food and wine flavors left us overwhelmed. One of Dario's aims here is to demonstrate its possible to have an Italian chef dinner ,for around 30 Euros per person .

All the way back to our villa we did not stop Praising the special meal we have just had.

For more details & how to get there Dario & his wife Kim

Bistecca alla

Fiorentina

the 2nd table in SOLOCICCIA

*All rights reserved to Italy-Vacation 2010

*All rights reserved to Italy-Vacation 2010