[Section Heading]
Nestled in the heart of Pisa, Il Merlo invites you to indulge in a rich menu that celebrates the culinary heritage of Tuscany with a modern twist. From sumptuous starters to hearty mains, delicious pizzas, and irresistible desserts, every dish is crafted to delight your palate using fresh, local ingredients.
Starters
Begin your meal with a selection of exquisite Tuscan starters that showcase regional flavors and artisanal ingredients.
- Affettati del Merlo: A savory platter featuring Maiale Grigio, Toscano Dop, and wild boar for an authentic taste of Tuscan charcuterie.
- Crostini Misti: An artful assortment of crostini topped with chicken liver, artichokes, garlic, olives, gorgonzola, mozzarella, and fresh tomato.
- Carpaccio di Pere e Pecorino Maremmano: A delicate pairing of fresh pears and Maremmano pecorino cheese, offering a perfect balance of sweet and savory.
- Crostone del Tartufaio: Toasted bread topped with truffle cream, Grana cheese shavings, and Cinta Senese pork, delivering an earthy richness.
- Insalata di Mare: A refreshing seafood salad featuring mussels, clams, cuttlefish, and octopus, dressed for a light start.
Main courses
The mains at Il Merlo feature a variety of Tuscan specialties, from hearty pasta dishes to expertly grilled meats and fresh seafood.
- Linguine Limone e Pepe con Vongole e Bottarga: A delightful pasta with linguine, lemon, pepper, clams, and cured fish roe, bursting with fresh coastal flavors.
- Bistecca Fiorentina: The iconic Tuscan T-bone steak grilled with rosemary, garlic, and olive oil, a true carnivore's dream.
- Cacciucco: A traditional seafood stew with mixed fish, tomatoes, garlic, chili, white wine, and parsley, rich and comforting.
- Ravioli di Arancio al Tartufo: Citrusy orange ravioli infused with black truffle, marrying bright and earthy notes in each bite.
Pizzas and specials
Savor artisanal pizzas topped with the freshest ingredients or try one of the restaurant’s special calzones and schiacciatinas for a true taste of Italian comfort food.
- Pizza Merlo: Topped with tomato, mozzarella, shrimp, scampi, and Parmigiano Reggiano for a seafood lover’s delight.
- Calzone del Marinaio: A folded pizza stuffed with fresh tomato, parsley, seafood salad, and garlic, bursting with seaside flavors.
Desserts
Complete your dining experience with traditional Tuscan sweets, each offering a perfect balance of sweetness and texture.
- Il Merlo Ghiotto: A luscious dessert featuring dark chocolate, whipped cream, fresh fruit, and vanilla ice cream.
- Sfogliate di Pere e Cioccolato: Flaky pastry filled with pears and dark chocolate, delicately dusted with powdered sugar.
