One of my favorite experiences in Tuscany was having dinner with Dario Cecchini, known as The Butcher of Tuscany. When I was planning our trip to Italy, I of course knew we would go to Tuscany. The rolling hills, beautiful wineries, and the welcoming locals. I was smitten before I even arrived. While researching where to go and where to stay in Tuscany, I stumbled upon a man known as The Butcher of Tuscany from Panzano in the Chianti region. I read more about him, his philosophy, his shop, and his family style dinners. I read how they welcome you to their shop with samples of bread, wine, and much more. I read about his dinner with six meat courses and free flowing wine. I had read all I needed to know and what I knew was, I had to visit this place.
When we arrived in Panzano we immediately went to his shop. I had to check this place out! After all, it was our whole reasoning for traveling to Panzano. We were greeted warmly and they immediately poured us a glass of wine, complementary! There was meat hanging behind glass doors, bread, wine, and olive oil on a table for your enjoyment. Everything you imagine a perfect little butcher shop in Tuscany would be. This, is heaven.
Butcher of Tuscany’s shop, Antica Macelleria Cecchini
Porcheta at Antica Macelleria Cecchini
Free for guests at Antica Macelleria Cecchini. On the table is tuscany bread, olive oil, lard, and wine.
We had dinner at Solociccia, the butcher’s kitchen. Dinner is served family style at a communal table. We really enjoyed sitting with and meeting people from all over the world. It felt as if we were having a dinner party in our home with our neighbors from all across the globe. The dinner itself consist of six meat courses, season vegetables, bread, wine, tuscan bread, olive oil cake and the night is finished with grappa! When the dinner was finished, Dario greeted everyone. His love for what he does and his genuine personality is contagious. Afterwards, we all took to the street, where they were free pouring grappa and wine as they thanked us for dining with them! It is an experience I will cherish for the rest of my life.
Family style dinner at Solociccia
Vinnie and I with Dario Cecchini
I highly suggest anyone traveling to Tuscany to put this on your list. He now offers Butcher For A Day and Whole Cow Philosophy classes. When I travel back to Tuscany, I plan on taking part in at least one class.