Antica Farmacia

The story

Antica Farmacia – Tuscan Seasonal Cuisine in Palaia, San Miniato Basso

A former pharmacy in the heart of Palaia

Set on the main street of the medieval village of Palaia, Antica Farmacia occupies a space that once housed the town’s actual pharmacy. Chef and owner Juri Zanobini purchased the historic building in 2010 and transformed it into a small, welcoming restaurant. With just 20 covers, the room is intimate and characterful: a large stone fireplace warms the dining area in winter, its crackling fire complementing the rustic-elegant atmosphere. The stone walls and careful décor reflect the building’s ancient origins while offering a quiet, comfortable setting for a meal.

Chef Juri Zanobini and his team

Zanobini graduated from the Matteotti hospitality school in Pisa in 2005 and spent the following years working in restaurants and hotels across Tuscany. Always determined to open his own place, he brought that experience back to Palaia. His cooking is rooted in the rich traditions of Tuscan cuisine, but he adds his own touch through careful ingredient research, new combinations, and precise technique. In the kitchen he works closely with Adriano Civitillo, another Matteotti graduate, who focuses on meats and vegetables while also crafting the restaurant’s desserts. Out front, Giulia Parente oversees the dining room and wine service; she is training with AIS to become a professional sommelier and is deepening her knowledge of Italy’s finest extra-virgin olive oils.

Seasonal Tuscan cuisine with a modern hand

The menu changes with the seasons, drawing on the produce of the surrounding hills: wine, olive oil, and the celebrated white truffle of the area. Dishes are inspired by classic Tuscan recipes but arrive at the table noticeably reworked—lighter, more precise, yet still deeply comforting. The kitchen’s commitment to freshness and local sourcing is evident in every course. Antica Farmacia’s steady, patient approach has earned it a place among the Michelin Recommended restaurants for 2026, a recognition that reflects the consistency and sincerity of Zanobini’s project. For anyone seeking a genuine taste of contemporary Tuscan cuisine in a setting that feels both historic and personal, this small dining room on Palaia’s main street is well worth the journey.