Osteria di Fonterutoli In Castellina in chianti

We returned to this osteria, which we've known for several years, and were unpleasantly surprised by the change. We ate on the veranda, which certainly doesn't have the same charm as the indoor dining rooms. The menu is very sophisticated and a bit pretentious, with limited choices and dishes that won't suit all palates. The wild boar and chocolate buttons were good, but several parts of the wild boar skewer were tough or sinewy. The grilled pasta and celery ossobuco were disappointing. The price was high for the quality. However, the service from the professional and pleasant staff was impeccable.

There's no denying this place's charm: the location is enchanting, especially when dining in the garden, and the wine cellar offers superb wines (their Chianti is a guarantee) served by an impeccable and knowledgeable staff. The atmosphere and service are textbook. However, I must make a substantial point about the cuisine. Although there are interesting creative flourishes, the balance is tipped too far against the customer. Portions are often too small, almost like stylish tastings, which struggle to justify the significantly higher final bill. One is happy to pay for quality and location, but leaving feeling like one paid a lot for little food leaves a bitter taste in the mouth. To be a truly complete experience, the price-to-quantity ratio needs to be significantly rebalanced to the guest's advantage.

Refined and delicious cuisine worthy of the excellent wine presented

Exceptionally good cuisine and very friendly service. All the wines from the winery are great, also available by the glass at very reasonable prices, including a superb Toscana.

We had the set menu with wine pairing. Everything was delicious, and the atmosphere was wonderful.

One of the best meals I've ever had in Italy. The setting is stunning, the staff are attentive and friendly. The food is incredible. Perhaps it's slightly expensive if you are trying to eat in Italy on a budget but you really are getting a great experience for your money. If you're staying in the area, absolutely book a table to eat here.

A cozy and comfortable place, the food is excellent, not to mention their wine, a fantastic Chianti in all its varieties. The staff is friendly and attentive. If you're in the area, you have to try it.

I've known Fonterutoli all my life, and the place, y'know, is a perfect fit. Eating in the garden with a view of Siena in the distance is wonderful, there's no doubt about that. Even the waiters are professional, attentive, and knowledgeable—a rare thing these days. The problem, for me, comes when you look at the plate. There's a lot of skill in the kitchen, the ingredients are good, but here they've gotten a bit lost in the trends. Lots of embellishments, lots of creative little dishes, but the portions are so small you can't feed a child. I'm serious about the substance, and when I go to an osteria, I expect substance, not small bites. And the bill, damn it, is steep. You pay for the form, the innovation, the view... everything except the satisfaction of a great meal. It's fine for those looking for something different, but for those who love tradition and decent portions, perhaps this isn't the right place.

Memorable dinner in a fantastic setting

We had a wonderful family dinner for four (mid-July). Highly recommended. The food was delicious, creative and clearly prepared by someone who loves what they do. The wine was spot on. The location has a great view and atmosphere. We arrived late in the afternoon for a stay at Castello di Fonterutoli Wine Resort. The kind staff managed to get us a reservation for dinner. The service at the Osteria was excellent. The staff served the table at the right moment, very well balanced, and had an incredible attention to detail. For example, together with a great knowledge of the courses, they picked up on the orders, and without asking, prepared a vegetarian complementary appetizer for one of us while the others were served something equally special. Based on the experience we could not resist an espresso and dessert, which did not disappoint.