It is unlikely that London would have agriturismi, since by definition (either US or Italian) they’re located in the country and sometimes on farms. And I strongly suspect that if there were one, it would be packed every night!
However, we do tend to have a family meal in an Agriturismo most times we go back to Italy, for a number of reasons. One is that it can be tricky to find a table for thirty-five in a restaurant. The other is that it would be trickier still to eat well for €20/$30 a head, all-inclusive!
However, this is not a problem for agriturismi, that cater to large groups and families, usually booked at least a day in advance so that they can order fresh ingredients to match. Our meal was only four courses: two primi – tagliatelle with duck ragu, followed by gnocchi; a secondo of what is effectively a mixed grill, with several different plates of vegetables and salad to share; and a light dessert of assorted tarts and cakes.
That’s not to say it finishes there – the evening continues, and the meal tapers off slowly, with more torta, caffe (corretto with prugna or grappa), some prosecco, and then sorbetto to finish. Considering the unlimited water and table wine, it’s really not bad value! Particularly since you’re often too full to eat the next day!
So – if you visit Italy, and do venture outside the cities, then definitely ask for a recommended agriturismo, and take into account that you may have to book in advance. Be sure to ask about the menu when you book as well, since it’ll usually be a fixed menu with only one option.Be sure to ask about the menu when you book as well, since it’ll usually be a fixed menu with only one option.
I could talk about the agriturismo we visited one Christmas, which served 42 courses over a twelve-hour period… but I hope to visiting it again soon enough, at which time I’ll write about it in detail!
