Perched high up in the old town of Colle Val D’Elsa, Arnolfo restaurant offers diners a unique mix of art and fine dining amidst the stunning Tuscan countryside. Chef and artist Gaetano Trovato turns his two passions into innovative cuisine, drawing on inspiration from local produce and ingredients.
Named after the famous sculptor and architect, Arnolfo di Cambio, who was born in Colle Val D’Elsa in the thirteenth century, restaurant Arnolfo now blends age-old traditions with modern techniques to attract diners from far and wide. Originally opened in 1982 by Gaetano, the restaurant sits within a fifteenth century palace, offering spectacular views over the Chianti hills, despite being only twenty minutes from the bustling cities of Siena and Florence. The building itself has been lovingly restored, both inside and out, again balancing contemporary touches with the original, historic features – antique furnishings and handcrafted Baccarat chandeliers, with carefully selected pieces of modern art and fine white porcelain.
The cuisine served at Arnolfo also demonstrates a number of influences, pulling from both Gaetano’s training within some of the best kitchens across Europe, as well as influences closer to home. Sicilian flavours make an appearance, as this is where the chef was born, while his thirty-odd years in Tuscany have resulted in strong relationships with local suppliers and producers in the vicinity. The latter has helped Gaetano develop a passion for the the ingredients and produce of the region, utilising them – with creative flair – in his cooking.
Menu options here are extensive, and trying the seasonal tasting menus is highly recommended. These change regularly and epitomise the artistic nature of the chef; each is named poetically to represent the journey Gaetano wants to take the diner on. During the summer months a menu such as ‘Contemporary moments’ might greet guests with innovative and fresh dishes, whilst in autumn ‘Territory and research’ might focus more on rich game and foraged produce. If eating from the à la carte, expect to find pasta of the day, meat from the surrounding Siena hills, and fresh seafood from the Tyrrhenian coast.
To complement the menu, Gaetano relies on his brother, Giovanni, to look after the wine selection. An expert sommelier, he has curated a wine list that features over 600 vintages from Tuscany and beyond, many with personal stories and relationships behind them that sum up the brothers’ passion for the region. Despite over thirty years at the same restaurant, this passion hasn’t dwindled, and both Gaetano and Giovanni always welcome guests as part of the family.
