The story
Antica Trattoria La Toppa sits in the historic center of San Donato in Poggio, a small village in the Chianti region near Poggibonsi. The restaurant occupies a building that once housed a celebrated tinaia, or wine cellar, known for producing excellent Chianti. That heritage lives on in the carefully selected wines from the best Chianti Classico labels.
The kitchen is led by Mariarosa, who cooks from recipes she learned from her mother and grandmothers. The result is genuine Tuscan home cooking: handmade pasta, local meats, and traditional desserts, all prepared fresh to order with seasonal ingredients. The menu changes with the seasons, and dishes like wild boar stew or beef stew are favorites among regulars.
The atmosphere is warm and unpretentious. The dining room feels like an extension of a family home, and guests are welcomed with genuine hospitality. Many visitors return year after year, and the restaurant has built a loyal following both in Tuscany and abroad, thanks to word of mouth.
The name "La Toppa" often sparks curiosity. In Tuscan dialect, "prendere una toppa" means to get drunk, a playful nod to the building's history as a wine cellar where cheerful gatherings once took place.
In 2026, Antica Trattoria La Toppa was awarded a Michelin Bib Gourmand, recognizing its good quality, good value cooking. The award reflects the restaurant's commitment to honest, flavorful Tuscan cuisine served in a welcoming setting.
Whether for lunch or dinner, with outdoor seating available in good weather, this trattoria offers an authentic taste of Tuscany. Pets are welcome, and takeaway is available upon request.
Recognition
Ambience
Location