Bracali - MASSA MARITTIMA

This is definitely a hidden gem in the Ghirlanda countryside and I am not sure how you would get here without a car. As I have described in earlier reviews, the... read more This is definitely a hidden gem in the Ghirlanda countryside and I am not sure how you would get here without a car. As I have described in earlier reviews, the interior is very modern and extremely elegantly furnished. We booked for lunch and unfortunately we were about a half an hour late as we had problems booking into our accommodation in nearby Massa Marrittima. We phoned to let the restaurant know and it was no problem at all. There were three different menu choices the Al la Carte, the Classic degustation (EUR 170-00 per person) or the Frank degustation (EUR 190-00 per person). We chose the Frank menu which started with an amuse bouche, followed by four appertisers including a spritzer, six smaller primi dishes, the main (pigeon or beef), cheese, one dessert and eight different types of petit fours. Some of the dishes were on the menu last year, for example the onion soup, the pigeon and the petit fours, but we did not mind as all of the dishes were quite delicious and wonderfully plated with lots of different textures, aromas and flavours. There were also five different types of house made bread plus a gluten free option. Another wonderful range of dishes by self taught Chef Francesco. The wine list is very extensive with a good range of Italian and other wines at various price points. We had a 2008 bottle of Fugace which cost EUR 70-00. Luca, Francesco 's brother, is the maitre 'd and an excellent sommelier. The service was very formal whilst being both friendly and very efficient. Watching Luca decant the wine is an experience in itself.

My daughter and son-in-law's birthdays are 2 days apart and they chose this restaurant for their combo celebration. I was lucky enough to be in Italy at the tim... read more My daughter and son-in-law's birthdays are 2 days apart and they chose this restaurant for their combo celebration. I was lucky enough to be in Italy at the time. First, the service was impeccable down to the fact that you received a new napkin on a silver platter if you used the restroom during the meal. As a decorative artist the Verscace dinner ware didn't go past me. My water glass was never empty. The dishes served went beyond my expectations. Each was delicious, unique and pared well with the next. There were 5 of us and we were all amazed. The desserts were also magical. Like works of art really. Is Bracali expensive? Yes, and it should be. What you receive is much more than just a good meal. You get an experience that heightens your senses, takes you beyond your imagination. Perhaps the word is transformational? Not sure but I do know that you could easily spend this much in New York City at a top restaurant that at the end of the day wouldn't compare. I highly recommend Bracali to anyone traveling in the area of Massa Marittima.

Hidden gem. Off the beaten track, in Massa Marittima, but most definitely worth a visit. Run by two brothers presenting an exquisite culinary selection. We had... read more Hidden gem. Off the beaten track, in Massa Marittima, but most definitely worth a visit. Run by two brothers presenting an exquisite culinary selection. We had the most wonderful experience (esp recommended the beef tartare of carne Chianina and the pigeon). Highly recommended.

We have spent recently a magical evening at Bracali. The restaurant is located in the middle of nowhere and it’s exterior is unassuming which makes the whole ex... read more We have spent recently a magical evening at Bracali. The restaurant is located in the middle of nowhere and it’s exterior is unassuming which makes the whole experience even more special. After picturesque drive trough Maremma hills we entered small 6 table elegant restaurant and were greeted by Luca, one of two brothers running the restaurant since 1983. Francesco who’s the chef gave us a node trough the big glass window allowing to admire the art of cooking during the dinner. Luca has been extremely kind, delicate and knowledgeable about wines and cousine. We have followed his advise and ordered 6 courses menu that included 2 desserts. From the beginning to the end the food was spectacular, innovative and elaborated. We had the best pigeon in our life and we had tasted a lot of them! The recommended wine was wonderful: very special and rare bottle coming from the local producer who makes just 1000 bottles per year. The atmosphere of the restaurant was matching its location: it was quite out of this world yet very warm and welcoming. One can feel that this place is not a business but life long journey of passion and hard work.

A very good experience at this one-star restaurant. The staff was welcoming, even with our two young children, and the food was both traditional and original, a... read more A very good experience at this one-star restaurant. The staff was welcoming, even with our two young children, and the food was both traditional and original, and of course, very good quality. Thank you so much for this wonderful experience!