Antica Trattoria La Toppa

Antica Trattoria La Toppa – The Best Accident We Ever Had Sometimes, the best experiences happen by pure chance. That’s exactly how we stumbled upon Antica Trattoria La Toppa, a hidden gem in the heart of Tuscany. It was our first time in this breathtaking region, and we wanted to immerse ourselves in the local culture. I had bookmarked this little trattoria while planning our family vacation, and since we were staying at a nearby winery outside San Donato, it seemed like the perfect spot for our first dinner. Pro tip: Be ready to walk! San Donato is a tiny, charming town where cars aren’t allowed inside, so you’ll have to park on the outskirts. Trust me, the short stroll through the medieval streets only adds to the experience. As we arrived, I confidently asked for a table for four—only to be met with a surprised look. “Do you have a reservation?” the host asked. Rookie mistake. This wasn’t a tourist trap; this was a true local institution, where the townspeople gathered for their nightly meal. But luck (or maybe fate) was on our side. The owner, warm and welcoming, found a way to squeeze us in. Walking into La Toppa felt like stepping into Nonna’s dining room—cozy, inviting, and filled with the scent of something incredible cooking in the kitchen. The staff was beyond friendly, happy to guide us through the menu, and the wine selection? Impeccable. Determined not to repeat my rookie mistake, I made a reservation for our last night in Tuscany—one final indulgence before heading to Venice. When we returned, the owner greeted us with a smile, clearly amused that I had learned my lesson. We started with delicious appetizers, but the real showstopper was the Bistecca alla Fiorentina. Before cooking, the chef himself came to our table, proudly displaying the massive cut of steak. “How would you like it prepared?” he asked. Without hesitation, we replied, “Chef’s choice.” His face lit up—a chef’s dream answer. Moments later, he returned with the most perfectly cooked steak, sliced and ready to be devoured. As we dug in, the owner and his father checked on us, grinning when they saw us passing around the massive bone, making sure we didn’t waste a single bite. The ultimate seal of approval? The owner’s father nodding in satisfaction as we unabashedly enjoyed our meal the Tuscan way. When it was time to leave, the chef personally thanked us for letting him cook for us—a true honor. But the night wasn’t over yet. As we went to pay, the owner ran into technical issues with his payment system, clearly frustrated. After sorting it out, he surprised us with a bottle of house wine, insisting we take it as a token of appreciation. Oh, and did I mention? La Toppa is featured in the Michelin Guide. But even if it weren’t, it would still be one of the best places I’ve ever accidentally walked into. Lesson learned: Some accidents are meant to happen.

Food was incredible and a good value. We stumbled upon this restaurant on our last night in Tuscany after driving into San Donato on a whim. We were lucky to get a table as the restaurant was busy. Family-run restaurant and we were lucky to chat with the owners (three generations!). Really happy they were able to accommodate us. Highly recommend :)

We wanted to go somewhere special for our last night in Italy and found this gem. Very simple decor with great service, we loved every course! It’s in a very cute town that’s fun to stroll around in. Turns out they have a few Michelin stars too!

I'd I could add stars I would. A delightful lunch experience with friendly service, lovely vino and authentic, delicious food. Could not ask for more, I only wish I could eat more. Ravioli was my favourite main, the duck ragu is perfectly balanced. The dessert is too good not to have, especially Grandma's cake. Grazie Luigi and Matteo!

We ate here twice in two days and would highly recommend it to everyone! The food is excellent, the staff very friendly, and the location idyllic in the heart of a small Tuscan town.

Restaurant itself is right in the middle of the medieval village with a very cozy setup. I was told, they've been there for over 40 years. We had not reserved in advance; but we were there early, so, seating was quick. Service and the waiters/waitresses were very friendly and made full effort to speak in English. I was very excited after seeing all the Michelin recommendation (not stars) stickers; but was a little let down with the taste. Food was good, but not great! The portions were right size but it needed a little more authentic Italian flavor. Not bad food by any means at all, but I've easily had better food on the trip. I wouldn't mind going there again and trying completely different items from their menu.

We went here over a decade ago on a trip through Tuscany and I still think about it! In fact, while staying at a nearby town, we came here on more than one occasion (which says a lot given the multitude of excellent options in this area). Multiple generations of family run this place and you can taste in the food and feel it in the experience. I will never forget it. If this place opens again, you would be a fool to miss it! Next time I am in Italy I will surely be planning a visit. Honestly, I haven’t had a meal quite as excellent and perfectly perfect Italian as this ever since.

Our landlady recommended us this place and booked in advance. The service was very good and very friendly. We ordered the beef stew and pappardelle duck and ended with an exquisite tiramisu. Both the mains were so good and tasty especially the beef stew sauce. Veronica advised we could have the pappardelle with the sauce from beef stew. So we came back again a few night later - this time for that and also the Florentine steak. They were again so so good, ended this time with the liquiriza grappa - really enjoyed this place for its service and rustic food. Highly highly recommended!