By Claudia Stocchi
There are places that are born from a long-cherished dream and that become reality thanks to the determination and strength of a family. Le Pietre Serene, Anna Maria Bonatti’s agricultural restaurant in Montevarchi, is one of these. Its story takes shape from a corporate restructuring project shared with the Tuscany Region, also made possible by European funds. The farm, now certified organic, has been transformed over the years until the opening of the restaurant, three years ago.
A cuisine that speaks of the territory
The philosophy of Le Pietre Serene is simple and authentic: the cuisine follows the rhythms of nature and the availability of raw materials. Extra virgin olive oil, Chianti wine, vegetables, Cinta Senese meats raised in the surrounding woods: each dish tells the story of the bond with the land. On the menu, a few selected dishes that rotate with the seasons, alongside some “classics” that are now indispensable such as the appetizer of cold cuts and croutons, the soft egg with pecorino cream and truffle, the pappardelle with the innkeeper’s ragout, the sliced steak and the Cinta Senese pork tenderloin. The value of the short supply chain is essential: from our cured meats to pecorino cheese, from local flours to Casentino eggs, everything comes from nearby and trusted producers. A deep respect for peasant traditions that is not only an ethical choice, but also a guarantee of quality and authenticity.
The atmosphere of home
Entering Le Pietre Serene means feeling welcomed in a large country house. The furniture comes from the recovery of simple objects, with a vintage charm, which restore warmth and familiarity. “We opened our home to others,” says Anna Maria. It is a no-frills welcome, which puts people at the center, making guests feel part of the family.
The memory of Francesco Pasquini
A special place in the history of the restaurant belongs to Francesco Pasquini, the chef who helped give shape and substance to the project. A charismatic and generous figure, he was a teacher and a point of reference for Anna Maria’s children. “He built with us what we could never have done alone. The basis of our recipes and the spirit that animates Le Pietre Serene bear his imprint,” he recalls with gratitude.
Looking ahead: between sustainability and new ideas
The future of the restaurant is entrusted to the children, who represent the new generation and bring enthusiasm and creativity. Attention to sustainability is a cornerstone: from teaching aimed at children and adults, to the enhancement of local products, up to joining the Renewable Energy Community (CER) with Weenergy’s. A choice that has already brought concrete benefits in terms of energy savings and that confirms the restaurant’s commitment to a responsible and innovative model.
A story of family, territory and future
Today Le Pietre Serene is much more than a restaurant: it is a family project that combines tradition, love for the territory and openness to the future. A place where good food becomes experience, and where each dish tells not only ingredients, but stories of people, memories and passions.
Info: Le Pietre Serene Farming Restaurant
Via Setteponti Ponente 9/A, Loro Ciuffenna (Ar)
Tel. +39 320.2559124 / info@lepietreserene.com / www.lepietreserene.com
