Al Covo in Venice
Situated near Venice's lagoon, this restaurant made the top of the "Conde Nast Traveler" list of Italian restaurants, and ranks as one of only two that come recommended by the editor of "Gambero Rosso" magazine. While its ambiance gives it something of a corny, local feel, the food is great. All items are on the menu are made using local ingredients. A major plus in ever-expensive Venice is that the wine list remains reasonably priced. The owner-operators are a married couple--she is from Texas, he is from Italy, and they are both passionate about their restaurant and their cooking. The restaurant's repute among food critics and travel writers has made it something of a tourist destination in its own right.
Al Covo
Campiello della Pescaria
30122 Venezia
011 (+39) 0415223812
Ristorante Da Delfina in Florence
This is a lovely little place in the walled, medieval village of Artimino about 20 minutes outside of Florence. It has a big terrace overlooking an olive orchard, taking in the full majesty of the Florentine hinterland. The chef's menu is based on his mother's recipes, and all items are made with local ingredients. The result is a truly authentic Tuscan experience in fine dining. It is as good an example of a fine Italian restaurant that is building a strong reputation as a gastronomic tourist attraction that one can find around Florence.
Ristorante Da Delfina
Via della Chiesa
59015 Artimino, Firenze
011 (+39) 0558718074
Piperno in Rome
This is a restaurant that is well-known as a survivor of yesteryear. Set in Rome's Jewish Quarter and a mere two blocks from the Theater of Pompey, little has changed about this place since the 1970s, and the restaurant itself dates back to 1856. It is a well-known Roman institution, and enjoys a lasting reputation as the best place in Italy to go for fried artichokes.
Piperno
Via di Sant'Anna, 11
00186 Roma
011 (+39) 066861113
Albergo e Ristorante Real Castello
This is a rural hotel and restaurant in the Piedmont region, between the Adriatic and the city of Torino. The history of the beautiful estate dates back to 1500, but the modern buildings have eighteenth century origins for the most part. The menu has a well-deserved reputation for mushrooms and truffles when they come into season between October and December. The restaurant also has a wine list that is based firmly on the products of the estate's own vineyard and winery.
Albergo e Ristorante Real Castello
Via Umberto 19
Verduno, Piedmont
011 (+39) 0172470125
Article Written By Edwin Thomas
Edwin Thomas has been writing since 1997. His work has appeared in various online publications, including The Black Table, Proboxing-Fans and others. A travel blogger, editor and writer, Thomas has traveled from Argentina to Vietnam in pursuit of stories. He holds a Master of Arts in international affairs from American University.
