Tips on Tuscany?
 

We are staying in a villa 5 nights in Tuscany, the Chianti region, the second week in October. We have a rental car. Would love some suggestions on restaurants, shopping, etc. nearby - anything that is wonderful but not "touristy." Also, where can we buy food? We have a kitchen in the villa.

Anyone else planning to be in the region at that time?

One of my favorite restaurants is close to the Chianti region http://www.cantodelmaggio.com/

We also really enjoyed the town of Greve and the surrounding countryside

What a strange question - "where can we buy food ?" Where do you buy food at home ?!

Italy does have shops !

For our recent villa holiday near San Casciano in Val di Pesa, we bought staples at the Co-op supermarket on the edge of town and better fruit, vegetables, meat, bread, wine etc from the small specialized shops in town - pretty much what we do at home. (although the supermarket had much better fresh produce than UK supermarkets). I daresay all towns have the usual range of shops.

If you say exactly where you are staying, others who've been there might be able to direct you to the local shops.

P.S. I should have mentioned markets : some are good for food but the one in S.C.V.d.P. wasn't - mainly clothing and household goods.

seaside1 -- I am also going to be in the Chianti region this fall, from 9 - 15 Oct. we've rented 2 apartments in a villa. I'll be watching to see the recommendations you get so I can take advantage of them too!

Greve is wonderful, as is Radda in Chianti! Enjoy.

Buy the DK book named TOP 10 TUSCANY for about $10 on Amazon--good stuff!
Then, spend some time at slowtrav.com
Have fun !

Here is a great web site about the nice little towns in Tuscany. Restaurants, market days, etc.

http://www.divinacucina.com/code/tuscany.html

Thanks MarkY. I will check it out!