Il Santo Bevitore

Il Santo Bevitore Restaurant Review:

Il Santo Bevitore has a contemporary décor that looks warm and inviting, implementing artistic touches of hardwood paneling, shelves full of wine bottles and bistro-type furniture. Food is an innovative take on typical rustic Tuscan cuisine, contrasting flavors and textures, at times perhaps overcompensating for the use of simple ingredients. An appetizer cheese platter brings a white truffled pecorino; a selection from Sardinia such as the Fioretto Sardo; and semicotto caprino paired with fig preserves. Starters include seafood risotto; gnocchi with lobster, burrata and eggplant; or a variety of fresh pasta with homemade seasonal ragù like rabbit or wild boar. Influences from other regions are omnipresent. You could even choose a Sicilian favorite such as the stuffed calamaris on a coulis of spicy red peppers. However, to stay in line with Tuscan traditions, a millefoglie di lingua (cow tongue) could be just as surprising, thinly sliced and alternated with cheese and sautéed onions. Light desserts often involve seasonal fruits: fresh strawberries with mascarpone, or the more eclectic pomegranate semifreddo layered with crystallized brown sugar. The wine list is acceptable for the dining experience; good quality wine is available by the glass. Service is quite accommodating.