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Lucca

Ristorante Mecenate in Lucca is praised for its authentic Tuscan cuisine, friendly atmosphere, and use of local ingredients. Many reviewers highlight the quality of traditional dishes like tordelli lucchesi and tripe, as well as the warm and attentive service. The restaurant's unique setting in a historic building adds to its charm.

Discover il mecenate in lucca italy: a blend of tradition and taste!

Nestled along Via del Fosso in the charming city of Lucca, Il Mecenate represents a captivating slice of Tuscan culinary heritage. This historic restaurant invites food lovers and travelers alike to indulge in authentic Lucchese cuisine, where traditional recipes meet a warm and inviting atmosphere. Whether you’re craving local specialties like tender rabbit or the exquisitely flavorful artichoke pie, Il Mecenate offers a genuine taste of Tuscany in every bite.

At Il Mecenate, the menu is a celebration of the region’s best flavors, featuring dishes crafted from fresh, local ingredients. Diners rave about the carefully prepared gnocchi with local cheeses and the delicately spiced nettle and ricotta crepes. Though some guests have noted inconsistencies in service and dish preparation, many cherish the magical courtyard seating that transforms every meal into a memorable occasion under softly lit skies. Complement your meal with selections from their curated wine list or enjoy a rich cappuccino to end your dining experience on a perfect note.

Il Mecenate welcomes groups and families, with outdoor seating that’s perfect for enjoying Lucca’s serene ambiance. The restaurant caters to various dietary needs including vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options—just be sure to notify the staff when booking. Payment is convenient with multiple options including NFC and credit cards. While live music and cocktails aren’t on offer, the focus remains steadfastly on authentic food and wine in a relaxed, community-friendly setting.

 with atmospheric lighting for magical evenings.

 including vegan, vegetarian, and gluten-free options.

Quali sono gli orari di apertura di Il Mecenate?

 Il ristorante è aperto dal lunedì al sabato dalle 12:30 alle 15:30 e dalle 19:30 alle 22:30. La domenica è aperto dalle 12:30 alle 15:30 e dalle 19:30 alle 22:30. È chiuso il martedì.

 Si consiglia di prenotare in anticipo, soprattutto nei periodi di alta stagione, per assicurarsi un posto.

Il ristorante offre opzioni per diete speciali?

 Il Mecenate offre opzioni per vegetariani, vegani e senza glutine. È consigliabile informare il personale delle proprie esigenze dietetiche al momento della prenotazione.

The vibe around Il Mecenate is delightfully mixed. Many guests cherish the authentic flavors and the enchanting courtyard ambiance, calling it a highlight of their Lucca experience. However, some diners have expressed concerns over inconsistent service and the occasional dish that falls short of expectations. For the best visit, consider booking ahead, ask about menu options to suit your dietary needs, and enjoy the peaceful setting that makes this restaurant a distinct part of Lucca’s culinary scene.

Il Mecenate offers a true taste of Tuscany — a place where tradition, fresh ingredients, and community come together to create memorable dining moments.

Europe

Italy

Ristorante Mecenate, located on Via del Fosso in Lucca, Italy, offers a unique dining experience steeped in local tradition. Known for its rustic charm and inviting atmosphere, this restaurant has become a staple for both locals and travelers alike. The establishment prides itself on serving authentic Tuscan cuisine, with a focus on fresh, seasonal ingredients. Its history reflects a commitment to culinary excellence, making it a notable destination in the heart of Lucca.

At Ristorante Mecenate, diners can indulge in a variety of traditional dishes that capture the essence of Tuscan flavors. The menu features a selection of seasonal ingredients, ensuring freshness and quality in every bite. Signature dishes include the local rabbit, known for its tenderness and rich flavor, and the nettle and ricotta crepes, which offer a delightful twist on classic Italian cuisine. Guests can also enjoy a curated selection of local wines that perfectly complement their meals.

Nettle and ricotta crepes - a unique twist

Local cheese gnocchi - a comforting classic

Situated in the charming city of Lucca, Ristorante Mecenate is surrounded by a wealth of cultural attractions. The restaurant's location on Via del Fosso provides easy access to the city's historic sites, including the iconic Lucca walls and the stunning Piazza dell'Anfiteatro. Visitors can stroll through the picturesque streets, exploring local shops and cafes, making it an ideal stop for those looking to immerse themselves in the rich heritage of Tuscany.

A: Ristorante Mecenate is open daily from 12 PM to 10 PM.

A: Yes, outdoor seating is available for guests to enjoy.

A: Yes, reservations are recommended, especially during peak hours.

Q: Does the restaurant accept reservations?

Experience the flavors of Tuscany at Ristorante Mecenate. Whether you're a local or a visitor, this restaurant promises a memorable dining experience that showcases the best of Italian cuisine. Don't miss the chance to savor exquisite dishes in a charming setting. Plan your visit today!

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUNIbk56cFl3EAE&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJ42_Tk5KE1RIRazFrmXIlAIk/reviews/ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUNIbk56cFl3EAE

I'd have to agree, food is poor (even on the tordelli which is the signature dish here in Lucca). Svce is even worse -- you get an entire entourage of 3-4 people showing you to the table but once there you'd be waiting for any attention at all, or, in my case, just getting a glass of wine. But let's go back to the food -- its salty, pasta is not even al dente but taste like it was taken out of the freezer & cooked. Money definitely cd have spent elsewhere and I would not want others to make the same mistake (esp. given you'd have to walk along the canal and there's plenty of restos in central Lucca you could have already picked to get here...You can also spot the other diners feeling the same frustration & very few were cheery and enjoying their food... was truly a sad and angry affair toward the end as all I wanted to do was to go home and forget about this horrible dining place.

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSURyNHJEcDZnRRAB&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJ42_Tk5KE1RIRazFrmXIlAIk/reviews/ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSURyNHJEcDZnRRAB

The only redeeming qualities were the wine and the selection of cured meats. We were seated outside, and the service was abysmal: 25 minutes just to take our order, another 30 minutes to serve the starter, and an additional 15 minutes for the main course. The main course was an absolute disaster. I ordered the pork loin, which was supposed to be crusted, but the crust was as hard as a brick. We were left with our finished plates for ages, and after chasing the waiter for another 30 minutes, we were finally able to pay and leave. This was, without a doubt, the worst meal we’ve had in Italy (and this is our 13th day here).

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUNaMk83OHFnRRAB&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJ42_Tk5KE1RIRazFrmXIlAIk/reviews/ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUNaMk83OHFnRRAB

We were recommended to come here from a local. It did not disappoint.
From the moment we walked through the door the service was impeccable.
The food was incredible. I had nettle and ricotta crepes for mains and cheesecake for dessert.
My partner had the local cheese gnocchi then the orange and chocolate cake for dessert.
The portions were spot on. Not huge but not stingy. Just right.
Although the restaurant inside looked inviting, we were sat out the back in the courtyard which was beautifully lit and magical in every way.
Highly recommend this place.
Oh and the bathroom was spotless.

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUQ1NXZ2MzZBRRAB&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJ42_Tk5KE1RIRazFrmXIlAIk/reviews/ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUQ1NXZ2MzZBRRAB

The food is incredible and unassuming, my favorite. I highly recommend the local rabbit. It is tender and incredibly flavorful. Always end your meal with a cappuccino 😘

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSURqdVpXc09REAE&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJ42_Tk5KE1RIRazFrmXIlAIk/reviews/ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSURqdVpXc09REAE

Amazingly fresh ingredients. We  had two pastas, the beef with peas and lasagna, the rabbit was spectacular. The artichoke pie was incredible. The ambiance and staff are wonderful

Ristorante Mecenate: Italian Dining in Lucca, Italy

Ristorante Mecenate, established in 1996, has been serving authentic Tuscan cuisine for over two decades. Originally located in the countryside of Gattaiola, it moved to the city center of Lucca in 2012, occupying a historic laundry building along the city's 'fosso'.

Ristorante il Mecenate: a historic gem in Lucca's culinary scene.

Nestled in the charming city of Lucca, Italy, Ristorante Il Mecenate occupies a truly unique spot steeped in history and rich local tradition. What sets this dining destination apart is its location within a historic building that once housed a bustling dyeing workshop along Lucca's famed 'fosso' canal. This past life infuses the restaurant with a captivating rustic and vintage ambiance that transports visitors back through centuries.

Tracing its origins back to the 1700s, the building started as a dyeing workshop, a crucial part of Lucca’s textile industry. This foundation laid the groundwork for the space's deep connection to Lucca's industrial heritage.

1700 - The dyeing workshop is founded, establishing the building's historical roots.

2000 - The historic building is transformed into a restaurant, thoughtfully preserving its architectural and vintage elements.

2010 - Il Mecenate earns a prestigious spot in the MICHELIN Guide for its authentic Lucchese cuisine.

Experience the blend of history and authentic Lucchese flavors

Visitors to Il Mecenate don't just enjoy a meal; they step into a space where the past is carefully woven into every detail—from the exposed rustic walls to the vintage decor, echoing the building’s historic dyeing days. The restaurant’s dedication to Lucchese culinary traditions complements this historic setting, offering dishes that highlight the region’s rich flavors and seasonal ingredients.

Authentic Lucchese recipes crafted with fresh, local ingredients.

Rustic and vintage atmosphere reflecting the building's historical roots.

Recognition by the MICHELIN Guide, underscoring culinary excellence.

Outdoor Seating

Restroom

Delivery

Good for Groups

Serves Beer

Serves Wine

Serves Lunch

Serves Dinner

Good for Children

Ristorante Mecenate is a culinary gem in Lucca, Italy, offering a delightful blend of traditional and innovative Italian cuisine. The restaurant features rustic decor and a warm ambiance, perfect for romantic dinners or gatherings with friends. With a menu that highlights local ingredients and a carefully curated wine list, it promises an unforgettable dining experience in the heart of Tuscany.

Ristorante Mecenate

A menu made up of traditional and local dishes, our breads and pastas, to be enjoyed at the tables inside and in summer on the summer veranda on the beautiful St. Francis Square. A Menu that varies with the seasons. What never changes is our passion and acoustic cooking style.

La nostra cecina con formaggio di mucca di Monica di Valgiano e cavolo nero croccante

Tortino di carciofi

Le nostre polpette “di lesso” e salsa verde

Salumi artigianali con il nostro pane alle olive

Prosciutto di “Gino e Severino” di Matraia con crostini di fegatelli

Focaccia calda e lardo

Sfogliatina di porri

Il nostro manzo marinato

Antipasto misto del Mecenate

Polpo alla ligure

Tordelli casalinghi lucchesi

Tacconi casalinghi al sugo di coniglio

Zuppa di cipolle

Crepes di farina di ceci con ricotta della pastora e formaggio erborinato di capra

Fusilloni del pastificio artigianale Fabbri al ragù bianco di quinto quarto

I veri Testaroli di Pontremoli (Presidio Slow Food) olio nuovo e pecorino

Riso (carnaroli biologico) agli asparagi selvatici

Spaghetti gamberetti ed asparagi selvatici

Le nostre pappardelle al cinghiale

Bistecca alla fiorentina dell’Azienda agricola Il Castello di Colle di Compito

Frittata di asparagi selvatici

Coniglio nostrale arrosto marinato alle erbe aromatiche, con il fagiolo cannellino di Lucca

Stinco di scottona con purea

Filetto di maiale in crosta con cipolline caramellate

Tagliata alle erbe aromatiche (per due persone)

Rovelline lucchesi

La Trippa

Cinque formaggi di latte crudo

Carciofi ritti

Calamaro ripieno con verdure

Insalata mista di stagione

Erbi saltati

Patate arrosto

Sformato di cardoni

Il fagiolo cannellino di Lucca

Purea di patate

Torta di limone

La nostra torta di pere

Panna cotta con salsa di pere

Salame di cioccolata

Gelato a scelta fra: Crema, Cioccolata, Fragola, Pistacchio bronte

Latte alla portoghese

Pere al vino con la panna montata

Cialda con ricotta della pastora e miele biologico di erica

Torta di arancia e cioccolata

Experience the rich flavors of Tuscany at Ristorante Il Mecenate, located in the charming city of Lucca. This authentic Tuscan eatery specializes in traditional local cuisine crafted from fresh, seasonal ingredients. The menu showcases a variety of classic dishes that celebrate the region's culinary heritage, offering an exquisite journey through Lucchese flavors.

Begin your meal with a selection of carefully curated starters. While specific appetizers are not listed, the restaurant's commitment to fresh, local ingredients ensures that each starter is a delightful introduction to the regional flavors of Tuscany.

Ristorante Il Mecenate offers a variety of traditional Tuscan main courses that capture the essence of Lucchese cuisine. Highlights include the famed Tordelli Lucchesi, delicate ravioli filled with mixed meat, seasoned with thyme and nutmeg, and served with a rich meat ragù. Another standout is the Trippa alla Lucchese, a hearty tripe stew simmered with tomato, onion, celery, carrot, and a splash of white wine.

For meat lovers, the Fiorentina steak is a must-try. This iconic Tuscan beef steak is simply seasoned with salt, pepper, and olive oil to highlight the natural flavors of the tender cut. The menu also features Cinghiale in Umido con Polenta, a rustic wild boar stew cooked slowly with tomato, onion, and red wine, paired beautifully with creamy polenta.

Vegetarian options include the Risotto all'Artichoke, a creamy risotto infused with artichokes, onion, vegetable broth, and finished with Parmigiano cheese for a satisfying and flavorful experience.

Indulge your sweet tooth with delectable desserts that embrace traditional Tuscan flavors. The Budino di Pane is a comforting bread pudding made with stale bread, milk, eggs, sugar, raisins, and pine nuts, offering a nostalgic taste of local home cooking. Another tempting option is the Torta di Noci e Fichi, a walnut and dried fig cake prepared with flour, eggs, sugar, and butter, perfect to conclude your meal on a rich and fruity note.

Complement your meal with a selection from the restaurant's wine list, featuring carefully sourced Tuscan wines that perfectly accompany the robust flavors of the dishes. Beer and coffee are also available, ensuring a refreshing or comforting beverage to suit every palate.

 – signature meat-filled ravioli with fragrant herbs and rich ragù.

 – tender and flavorful, highly recommended by locals.

Savor authentic Italian cuisine at Ristorante Mecenate in Lucca. Indulge in delightful flavors and a cozy atmosphere. Book your table today!

Ristorante Mecenate: Fine Dining in Historic Lucca

Province of Lucca

ristorante mecenate lucca italy dining experience overview 

Nestled in the charming streets of Lucca, Italy, Ristorante Mecenate offers a genuine taste of traditional Lucchese cuisine. Located at Via del Fosso 94, this restaurant is a welcoming spot for food lovers eager to explore authentic regional dishes in an inviting atmosphere. Whether you're a foodie searching for classic Tuscan flavors or a traveler seeking a memorable dining experience, Mecenate presents a delightful culinary journey.

authentic cucina tradizionale lucchese specialties

At the heart of Ristorante Mecenate's menu is its dedication to traditional Lucchese dishes. Guests can savor iconic plates like tordelli lucchesi, a stuffed pasta bursting with rich flavors; trippa alla lucchese, a hearty tripe preparation that showcases local culinary heritage; and the comforting budino di pane, a classic bread pudding dessert that rounds off the meal beautifully. These dishes reflect the deep-rooted gastronomic traditions of Lucca, crafted with care and local ingredients.

ample wine selection to complement your meal

To elevate the dining experience, Ristorante Mecenate offers an extensive wine list featuring some of the best local and regional wines Tuscany has to offer. Whether you prefer a robust red to accompany your pasta or a crisp white to balance lighter fare, the curated wine selection ensures each meal is perfectly paired, enhancing the flavors and creating a harmonious taste journey.

charming outdoor seating with historic views

One of the standout features of Ristorante Mecenate is its inviting outdoor seating area. Diners can enjoy their meals al fresco with a picturesque view of the nearby Chiesa di San Francesco, soaking in the relaxed ambiance of Lucca’s historic charm. This setting is perfect for warm days or balmy evenings, offering a serene backdrop that complements the authentic cuisine.

Experience genuine Lucchese culinary traditions made from fresh, regional ingredients.

Enjoy meals in the charming courtyard with views of historic Lucca landmarks.

Select from a wide range of local wines to perfectly complement your meal.

Welcoming environment suitable for groups and children with attentive service.

Ristorante Mecenate also offers delivery services for those who wish to enjoy traditional Lucchese dishes in the comfort of their accommodation. The venue accepts credit and debit cards as well as contactless payments, catering to modern convenience. Guests can expect clean restrooms and a welcoming environment that embraces both locals and tourists alike.

Ristorante Mecenate is perfect for families, couples, and anyone looking to enjoy a taste of authentic Tuscan cuisine in a charming setting.

Reservations are recommended, especially during peak dining hours. The restaurant offers outdoor seating, making it a delightful choice on pleasant evenings.

While Ristorante Mecenate has received mixed reviews, its commitment to authentic Tuscan flavors and local ingredients makes it a noteworthy stop in Lucca. With a historic ambiance and friendly service, it offers a unique dining experience, though potential diners should be aware of the occasional service delays.

Ristorante Mecenate: Italian Dining in Lucca, Italy

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