The Tuscan town of Montecatini Terme has long been known for its incredible restaurant tradition. Many chefs specializing in traditional Tuscan dishes have gone on to be internationally recognized, such as Sirio Maccioni. Other great chefs have stayed in Montecatini Terme, continuing the regional art of cooking over the generations. As many local ingredients as possible are used to keep dishes fresh and savory. Restaurant prices and specialties vary, depending on whether you want a full course meal or just a quick bite to eat. In general, food is rather expensive in Italy, but it is still possible to find some great cheaper places as long as you're not expecting perfection. In most restaurants, every dish is at least $15 USD per dish, although during the low season prices often drop to more affordable levels.

Local Specialties

Typical Tuscan meals are made up of various courses. The first course is generally a thick soup or cream made from local vegetables or meats. The second course is commonly some sort of game or fried eels. A popular appetizer is "fettunta" which is simply a slice of deliciously grilled homemade bread soaked in olive oil and garlic. Veal muzzle stew is a Tuscan specialty as is "mallegatto", a cured meat made with pig blood. Sorana beans are common, as well, and are cooked until soft and tender.

Drinks

Of course, being in Tuscany, it is essential to try out the incredible wines of the region. Wine is, afterall, one of the things Italy is famous for. Try a rich red wine from Montalbano or a light, fruity white wine from Montearlo. Tuscan table wine can be found in every restaurant, there are cheap varieties as well as more expensive, quality wines. Beer and cocktails are available anywhere as alternatives to wine.

Desserts

Montecatini Terme is full of tasty little pasteries overflowing with fresh, ripe berries and cream. Thin, sweet wafers are typical desserts, too, as is Schiacciata Con Uva, or sweet grape bread, Torta Mantovana, a traditional cake, and berlingozzo.

Restaurants

The expensive, luxury restaurants are notably classy and elegant, with dishes prepared with impeccable style and display. An excellent choice for a fancy restaurant in Montecatini Terme is Restaurant La Polveriera. It has a wide variety of seafood dishes, veal, specialty meats, and traditional dishes, but it is best known for its fresh seafood and sauces. The service is amazing with friendly waiters, and the chef even comes out to mingle with the customers. As an added bonus, the restaurant even has panoramic views of the valley, perfect for dining out on a summer evening. A meal will cost you $30 to $40 USD.

Cheaper options are always available. They tend to sell more "fast food" type fare including pizzas, lasagnas, ravioli, etc. However there are some restaurants with reasonable prices and fresh food as well. An example of this is the Albergo Ristorante Pizzaria Bolognese. It offers many types of freshly baked pizzas and Florence style meats at anywhere from $10 to $20 USD.