L'olivastra - CASTEL DEL PIANO

We have eaten here in the summer regularly over the last few years, out of the way, quiet and very welcoming! We couldn't possibly visit tis idyllic area and not visit L'Olivastra! We have been introduced and re introduced to some delightful local delicacies a real must place to go if you like authentic food!

If you’re lucky enough to find yourself this far off the beaten track, find your way to L’Olivastra. In my heart of hearts, I hope it’s open to welcome you and your traveling band — we were very fortunate to be welcomed by Ms. Maura and her son, Davide, who overseas the growing and cultivation processes. Situated on an olive and wine-producing vineyard, this restaurant offers locally-sourced deliciousness and award winning olive oils and delicious reds. If you’re really lucky, you’ll meet their enormous German Shepherd, I-gor. If only a dog could talk... the tales he’d tell.

The food was amazing, all locally sourced, freshly cooked and very honestly priced. The setting is great, large window panes look out on olive groves and the majestic monte amiata. Service is really friendly and unpretentious, the funny lady serving spoke excellent English (which helps us monoglot Brits and it is not as common as you might think Special mention goes to the oil and wine..the oil is so aromatic it can be smelt from halfway across the room, never tasted anything so flavoursome. (we even bought a bottle for the road! Not a fan of white wine normally but my wife insisted on choosing and I'm glad she did, as this went down like a tasty grape juice..went down a bit too easily tbh! The place isn't that easy to find but make sure you make the effort, you won't regret it!

Inside or outside Olivastra has great views. Inside, the dining room looks over the Ente valley between the Val d'Orcia and Castel del Piano. Outside, the patio looks up to Montegiovi and Olivastra's olive grove. The food is delicious and the pastries, by themselves, are worth a visit. Call ahead and find out what's on the menu. Request Maura's acqua cotta and hope that you can get it. Of course, the olive oil is superb. Reasonable prices.

Nice view authentic feeling... Would have walked away happy after an expensive but great lunch, if it had comes with a smile that fuzzy feeling of being welcome!!