A culinary experience not to be missed when in Tuscany: A meal at the Officina della Bistecca.
Dario Cecchini is known as ‘the mad butcher from Panzano’ and also ‘the most famous butcher in the world’, thanks to the shows Chef’s Table, No Reservations and the book Heat. The family butcher shop, Antica Macelleria Cecchini is located in the Chianti region of Tuscany, around 18 miles from Florence. The restaurant Officina della Bistecca is on the premise, and another eatery Solociccia is across the street and serves a simpler menu with meat only. Dario has claimed that he has dedicated his life ‘at the service of her majesty bistecca alla fiorentina’. Dario has come up with a winning formula, a concept menu at EUR 50 per person, including 4 meat dishes, Chianti wine (or BYOW), side dishes, coffee and dessert. Solociccia offers a menu at EUR 30 with only meat.
Traditional method of preparing meat
Dario learned the traditional way of butchering, and he is passionate about sharing his knowledge. He shows tremendous respect to the animal by learning how to cook every part and not wasting any, and believes that good meat can only come from an animal that has enjoyed a good life.
Thanks to Dario Cecchini, travelers can still taste the old country method of preparing meat.
After the aperitif, guests can help themselves to appetizers, local made cold cuts and bread.
Dario is working behind the counter, effusively greeting guests…
On the day of our visit, the restaurant is full.
When you enter the dining area, the enticing aroma of roasted meat on charcoal immediately hits you.
Ready for the next course, sliced steak!
Dario himself comes around to greet the guests.
Time for the last course of this tasting luncheon…
The last course, Panzano steak served with baked potatoes.
This set menu is so plentiful that there is no way for us to take another bite, but then, comes dessert… a lovely home made olive oil cake!
The cake is so delicious that back home, I have used a similar Italian recipe to make a fresh fruits olive cake. It’s so light and tasty! I hope you’ll try this recipe!
Thus ends this gargantuan lunch which has lasted for over 4 hours…
It has been an amazing culinary experience!
I would highly recommend this place if you visit Tuscany, but make sure to make a reservation weeks ahead and if possible please several dates options. Here’s the website: www.dariocecchini.com
We hope you love the products we recommend. Just so you know we may collect a compensation from the affiliate links on this page if you decide to shop from them, at no extra cost to you. Thank you for your support.
Orange Marmalade Cake
Trail running is my way of recharging.
I prefer mountain biking, but as long as you\’re outside it\’s all good!
Agreed! Being outdoors centers me and keeps me working toward my goals.