We will be leaving for Italy the end of the month.....do I need to make reservations, and if so, how soon?
Also, of all the places to go and one who travels to eat....is there a place that I just can't miss. Is there the perfect Italian restaurant?

Just make them when you get there...

Here are some food tips:

http://www.fodors.com/forums/threads...p;tid=34743272

Hi L,

For an absolutely can't miss place, you will want to ask your hotel concierge to makes reservations for you before you leave.

For everything else, a day or so ahead will be fine.

Where are you going in Italy?

We are going to Florence, Cinque Terre, and Siena.

I have never found a Perfect restaurant but I have had the good fortune to dine at many of places that I consider, for one reason or another, to be superb. But my taste may differ from yours. Before we answer your questions, you should to tell us about your taste. And budget. If you read my report, you will find that I had dinner twice in the same week at one restaurant in Florence. I rarely do that on a trip of less than a few weeks.

Again..what are you looking for? Food over atmosphere? Are wines a priority? Do you care if a place is filled with foreign tourists? Care if no English is spoken?

I would counsel you to do some research before making your selections. Of course that is true wherever you travel, but more so in certain places, Siena being one of these, as that city does not have a great restaurant reputation.

anyone else?

Were over there last June and reservations more than a day ahead didn't seem to be an issue. Omero would be a strong recommendation IMHO as well as Trattoria 4 Leoni.

If you haven't already seen it, check this thread for some Florence restaurant recommendations:

http://www.fodors.com/forums/threads...p;tid=35060150

We had a great time at I' Cche' c'è c'è.

Enjoy your trip!!!!