Terraforte

The story

Terraforte, Cecina, Italy – Tuscan Contemporary Dining at Castello del Terriccio

A Restaurant Born from a Dream

Terraforte is the realisation of a long-held vision by Vittorio Piozzo di Rosignano Rossi di Medelana, who as a child felt the magic of the Castello del Terriccio estate. When he took over the management, he set out to restore an old farmhouse formerly used as a carpenter’s workshop, converting it into a restaurant and tasting space overlooking a panoramic garden. The result is Terraforte, a place that feels both timeless and rooted in the Tuscan landscape.

The Chef’s Philosophy

At the helm is chef Cristiano Tomei, who immediately embraced the idea of interpreting the spirit of the estate. His cuisine is built on respect for the land and its resources. “From here, surrounded and firmly planted on the Earth, you can see the Sea,” he says. He aims to restore the true meaning of the verb “ristorare” – to restore. His dishes give prominence to lost values: the sacredness of a pappardella, a bistecca, venison cooked in juniper extract, Tuscan fried potatoes, and two kinds of fritto – one of the sea, one of the farmyard, sometimes together. Every plate is a celebration of local ingredients, including the wild herbs of this splendid territory.

Setting and Recognition

Set within the Castello del Terriccio estate, Terraforte offers a setting that is both elegant and welcoming. The restaurant has been recognised with a Michelin Recommended award, a testament to the quality and authenticity of its contemporary Tuscan cuisine. Guests can dine indoors or on the terrace, with views of the surrounding vineyards and olive groves, enjoying a menu that changes with the seasons and reflects the estate’s own produce.