Rediscovering the True Taste of Tuscany at Trattoria Peposo- The Best Restaurants in Tuscany
At Artviva, we’ve spent decades curating the finest culinary experiences across Italy, bringing travelers closer to the true essence of Italian cuisine. From exclusive gourmet transfers to immersive food safaris, private cooking classes with Michelin-starred chefs, and behind-the-scenes encounters with Italy’s best artisans, we are passionate about uncovering authentic flavors.
So when our director, Pier Carlo Testa—an Italian cultural and food expert—stepped into Trattoria Peposo near Pietrasanta, something extraordinary happened. The first bite of their dishes transported him straight back to his childhood. It was a moment of pure nostalgia, a reminder of the real, deep-rooted flavors of Tuscany, unaltered by time or trend.
A Hidden Gem in the Heart of Versilia
Tucked away on the outskirts of Pietrasanta, Trattoria Peposo is a celebration of family, tradition, and a deep respect for Tuscan cuisine. This charming eatery, run by the Di Gregorio family, stays true to the region’s culinary heritage while adding a fresh, contemporary touch. The mother, Alessandra, warmly welcomes guests in the dining room, while father Francesco and their son Manuel, the creative force in the kitchen, bring old-world flavors to life.
Located in northern Tuscany’s Versilia region, Pietrasanta is famous for its artistic legacy—this is a town sculpted from marble, quite literally. Known as the “Little Athens of Italy,” it has been home to sculptors and artists for centuries, including Michelangelo himself, who sourced marble from the nearby Apuan Alps. Today, the town remains a hub of creativity, with galleries, ateliers, and an enchanting piazza that hums with life.
A Taste of Tuscany’s Culinary Heritage
At Trattoria Peposo, every dish tells a story. The name itself is a nod to peposo, the slow-cooked black pepper beef stew once favored by Renaissance-era workers in Florence’s Fornaci (kilns), who would let the dish simmer in terracotta pots while crafting the bricks for Brunelleschi’s dome.
The Blackboard at Trattoria Peposo that shows the wild herbs picked daily for the wild salad and other dishes on the menu.
Here, the focus is on high-quality ingredients, simplicity, and time-honored techniques. The kitchen draws inspiration from the Artusian tradition, embracing dishes such as Galantina, a delicate cold meat preparation served with egg sauce and fermented green tomatoes infused with mountain oregano. Handmade pastas feature bold Tuscan flavors—like Tagliolini with black kale, asparagus, and turnip tops, or the Tordello lucchese, served “rested,” just as Tuscan grandmothers would let leftovers sit to enhance their taste.
Galantina di pollo con verdura sott’aceto e salsa all’uovo –Chicken galantine with pickled vegetables and egg sauce
For a true taste of rustic Tuscan home cooking, don’t miss the Sedano ripieno in salsa di pomodoro—a humble yet utterly delicious dish of stewed celery stuffed with minced beef, slow-cooked in a rich tomato sauce with aromatic herbs. It’s the kind of dish that embodies the soul of traditional Italian cuisine: simple ingredients elevated through time-honored techniques.
Sedano ripieno in salsa di pomodoro- Stuffed celery in tomato sauce
And if you’re visiting on a Saturday for lunch, be sure to try Pasta allo straccio. This unique dish consists of fresh pasta stretched out to encase a delicate filling of ricotta and spinach, then wrapped in a kitchen cloth (straccio means “rag” in Italian) and boiled in water. It’s then finished simply, yet perfectly, with melted butter and sage, allowing the natural flavors to shine.
Pasta allo straccio- Pasta cooked in cloth
And then there’s the Pollastra ruspante, a free-range Padovana hen roasted to perfection, bathed in its own juices, and finished with fragrant herbs. Or the Baccalà, paired with steamed vegetables and a silky zolfino bean sauce, creating a perfect balance between land and sea.
One of the true highlights? The grilled rabbit liver, fried to a crisp like a classic Tuscan crostino—a dish that embodies the very soul of rustic Italian cooking.
A Culinary Expedition Beyond the Trattoria
At Artviva, we believe that food is the gateway to culture. A visit to Trattoria Peposo is just one of the many ways we connect travelers with the real flavors of Italy. Our Food Expeditions and Gourmet Transfers turn every journey into a gastronomic adventure—imagine stopping at historic wineries in Chianti, meeting cheesemakers in Parma, or enjoying a private truffle hunt in Tuscany before arriving at your next destination.
For those who want to dive deeper, our Cooking Classes offer hands-on experiences with some of Italy’s finest chefs, including Michelin-starred masters who reveal the secrets of Italian cuisine. And with our luxury accommodations, we ensure that every stay—whether in Florence, the Tuscan countryside, or along the Italian Riviera—immerses you in the beauty of Italy’s food and culture.
What to See Near Trattoria Peposo
After indulging in an unforgettable meal, there’s plenty to explore nearby. Pietrasanta’s artistic soul makes it a must-visit, with its historic cathedral, vibrant art galleries, and artisan workshops. Just a short drive away, you can:
• Visit the Marble Quarries of Carrara – Walk in the footsteps of Michelangelo and see where he sourced the pure white marble for his masterpieces.
• Explore Forte dei Marmi – A glamorous seaside town known for its pristine beaches, designer boutiques, and lively markets.
• Hike in the Apuan Alps – Discover breathtaking mountain trails with panoramic views stretching from Tuscany to the Ligurian Sea.
• Discover Lucca – A city of stunning Renaissance walls, cobbled streets, and some of the best traditional food in Tuscany.
A Journey Through Taste and Time
Dining at Trattoria Peposo is more than just a meal—it’s a journey into Tuscany’s past, a rediscovery of forgotten flavors, and a testament to the enduring power of authentic Italian cuisine. Whether you’re savoring a slow-cooked stew, a beautifully aged cheese, or a perfectly balanced dish of fresh pasta, you’re tasting centuries of tradition, brought to life by passionate hands.
Join us at Artviva as we uncover more of Italy’s most extraordinary culinary treasures. Whether through a gourmet food safari, a private dining event in a Renaissance palace, or an immersive cooking experience, we’ll take you to the heart of Italian food culture—one unforgettable bite at a time.
See Artviva’s Youtube Video Review of Trattoria Peposo in the Best Restaurants in Tuscany Series
Artviva’s Exclusive Food & Wine Experiences
At Artviva, we believe that the best way to understand Italy is through its food and wine. Our curated experiences connect you with the country’s most passionate chefs, artisans, and winemakers, ensuring that every bite and sip is steeped in history, tradition, and flavor. Whether you’re exploring hidden trattorias, tasting world-class wines, or rolling up your sleeves in a hands-on cooking class, we create unforgettable gourmet journeys.
Discover Our Signature Food & Wine Experiences
• Gourmet Transfers: Transform Your Journey into a Culinary Adventure – Why settle for a regular transfer when you can turn it into a gastronomic experience? Stop at award-winning wineries, historic cheesemakers, or truffle farms en route to your next destination.
• Private Cooking Classes with Acclaimed Chefs – Step into the kitchen with top chefs, including Michelin-starred masters, to learn the secrets of authentic Italian cuisine. From handmade pasta to truffle-infused delicacies, every class is an unforgettable experience.
• Tuscan Wine & Food Safari – Explore Tuscany’s most prestigious wine regions, including Chianti and Montalcino, with exclusive access to renowned wineries. Savor private tastings, meet legendary winemakers, and enjoy gourmet meals in breathtaking settings.
• Exclusive Dining in Renaissance Palaces – Indulge in an extraordinary private dining experience in historic palaces, hosted by top chefs and sommeliers. A unique blend of history, culture, and world-class cuisine.
• Truffle Hunting & Tasting in Tuscany – Join expert foragers and their dogs in the forests of Tuscany to unearth the region’s most coveted delicacy. End the day with a truffle-infused feast paired with fine wines.
• Street Food & Market Tours – Wander through Florence’s bustling markets and hidden food stalls, sampling the best street food, cheeses, and artisanal delights. A perfect introduction to the city’s culinary soul.
Explore More on Our Artviva Blog:
• The Ultimate Guide to Florence’s Food Scene – Discover where to find the best pasta, gelato, and classic Florentine dishes.
• Wine Tasting in Tuscany: The Best Vineyards & Hidden Gems – A deep dive into Tuscany’s wine culture and the best wineries to visit.
• Michelin-Star Dining in Italy: A Journey Through Gourmet Excellence – Experience the artistry of Italy’s top chefs.
• Cooking Like a Tuscan: Essential Ingredients & Recipes – Learn how to recreate authentic Tuscan flavors at home.
Let Artviva take you on a journey through Italy’s most incredible culinary experiences. Whether you’re seeking an intimate tasting, an immersive cooking class, or a multi-day food and wine adventure, we’ll craft the perfect experience for you.
