Locals flock to Trattoria Sostanza in Florence

Want to wine and dine like a local while staying at villas in Italy?

Want to wine and dine like a local while staying at villas in Italy? The Trattoria Sostanza is a hub for residential foodies who enjoy a glass of wine at midday and love nothing more than a plate of homemade pasta.

Located just a couple of blocks away from the beautiful Arno river, this unassuming restaurant has been satiating patrons with some of the best traditional dishes in the city since 1869. Their no-frills menu features simple crostini and prosciutto platters along with charcoal-grilled tripe, which is served over a bed of fresh green or white beans grown right in Tuscany. Meat eaters should order the bistecca alla Florentina, a thick porterhouse steak grilled to perfection.

If you're looking for an extensive wine menu at the Trattoria Sostanza, you might be disappointed with the restaurant's minimal selection, but the food more than makes up for the lack of libations. Those who rent luxury villas should make reservations well in advance, because the place is packed with locals and visitors every evening.