Design

LINFA (SI)

by Clara Galanti

The only Michelin-starred restaurant in the enchanting historic center of San Gimignano, the ‘Manhattan of the Middle Ages,’ LINFA is a vibrant celebration of life, color, and extraordinary flavors that tell the story of the Tuscan terroir and its excellence in an original and contemporary style.

Amidst the romantic alleyways of one of the most beautiful villages in Tuscany, a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1995, this intimate and refined restaurant stands out for its highly researched wine and food proposal. 

Founded by San Gimignano native Lorenzo Di Paolantonio, who was also the driving force behind the nearby Cum Quibus, and led by the creative genius of Salento-born chef Vincenzo Martella, LINFA is the perfect destination for those seeking a culinary experience that showcases the very best local ingredients.

Stop saying what you should, start doing what you feel.

(Lorenzo Di Paolantonio, owner)

The interior design is a vibrant burst of color, mirroring the bold flavors and pairings of the chef’s creations. A grand tree at the entrance ushers guests into the enchanting world of LINFA.

In the vaulted room of the ancient building, just six tables are set with crisp white linens and graced with unique centerpieces featuring fresh apples, a timeless symbol of childhood, and books that celebrate the different cultures of Tuscany.

The contrasting walls, adorned with large oil paintings by Bulgarian artist Nedko Solakov selected by the nearby Galleria Continua, are accompanied by cheerful armchairs handcrafted with a patchwork of precious fabrics and brocades, tastefully selected by Lorenzo’s mother, a great lover of color. 

The menu, which changes according to the seasons and the availability of raw materials, is a true triumph of flavors and precious ingredients.

From caviar to the finest cuts of meat and game, to the freshest seafood, each dish is meticulously crafted to offer a guest a sensory experience of unprecedented textures, unconventional pairings, and impeccable aesthetics. The entire cuisine is based on a no-waste philosophy, aiming to use all ingredients in their entirety, transforming them when necessary into flavorful vegetable consommés, crispy bases, or surprising amuse-bouches. 

Among the iconic dishes are the pigeon in multiple textures, the cuttlefish risotto, and some elegant interpretations of offal, a fundamental theme in traditional Tuscan cuisine.

An extraordinary underground wine cellar carved into the rock and dating back to the 13th century, houses over 1000 labels of wines and fine champagnes. Here, true rarities are carefully curated by the brilliant sommelier Cesario Delle Donne

An exceptional team, capable of pampering guests with a sublime wine and food experience in an environment that smells of home and that authentic passion that makes every detail special.

The Secret

The name of the restaurant was inspired by the large tree at the entrance, a symbol that welcomes guests, a desire that Lorenzo had always had.

LINFA (SI)
LINFA (SI)
LINFA (SI)
LINFA (SI)
LINFA (SI)
LINFA (SI)
LINFA (SI)
LINFA (SI)
LINFA (SI)
LINFA (SI)
LINFA (SI)
LINFA (SI)
LINFA (SI)
LINFA (SI)
LINFA (SI)
LINFA (SI)
LINFA (SI)
LINFA (SI)
LINFA (SI)
LINFA (SI)

Useful Info

LINFA Ristorante
Piazza Sant’Agostino 19/A
53037 San Gimignano, Siena
Tel. +39 0577 891151

A la carte dishes: from 36 to 45 euro
Desserts: 20 euro

Tasting menù: 130 euro
Wine pairing:
from 90 euro

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