Before becoming a restaurant, we were a place where people passed through, gathered, and went about their daily lives
For four generations, our history has been intertwined with that of this place along the Aurelia,
where it all began and continues to this day, in different forms…
The origins: a country shop
It all began with a small country store, purchased by our great-great-grandparents and run by our great-grandmother Zeta.
They sold just about everything there: groceries, household goods, spices, and perfumes.
It was a gathering place for those living in the surrounding countryside.
During the day, people came to shop, while in the evening they stopped by to chat, play cards, or simply spend time together.
Even before that, this was one of the few places in the area to have a television: people would come as if to the movies, to watch it together.
It has always been, in different ways, a gathering place.
A photograph taken by an American traveler passing through, showing Grandpa Alcide in his workshop, which was later mailed from the United States with the simple inscription: “Alcide, Tuscany, Livorno”
The name that has remained
When the business was passed on to his son, our grandfather, the shop took his name: Alcide. A simple name, chosen spontaneously, just like the place it represents.
Over time, it became more than just a sign; it was a way to identify ourselves.
A landmark for anyone passing through here, so much so that even today, some people simply say:
“See you at Alcide’s.”
Photo by Laura Scatena
Four generations, the same approach
From our great-grandmother’s shop, to our grandfather Alcide’s work, right up to us, Cristina and Francesca.
Grandfather Alcide was a discerning buyer: he purchased fresh cured meats, aged them, and carefully selected cheeses and wines. Many of the producers he chose back then are still part of our business today.
On the shelves of the shop
We grew up here, learning what it means to choose, understand, and respect our products. Over time, we’ve expanded our cellar, introduced new selections, and continued to explore, never stopping.
From the counter to the kitchen
Until the 1990s, this place was solely a shop. Then, by listening to our daily visitors, we realized something was missing: the chance to stop and eat. So, in 2000, we built the kitchen and opened the restaurant. It was a natural choice, born out of passion and our direct connection with people.
The dining room that welcomes customers today was once the sales area: a place full of products, activity, and life.
Photo by Laura Scatena
Photo by Laura Scatena
A place unlike any other
From the outside, you might not expect it. Yet, once you step inside, you discover something different: a shop, a restaurant, a wine cellar, all in one. A place of contrasts, where different experiences and people come together.
Some people get it right away, while others take longer; this place wasn’t created to resemble anything else, but to be exactly what it has become over time.
Reserve a table and enjoy a special moment in the heart of Tuscany
How to get here
If you’re in the area, or even if you’re not, come visit us at Via Aurelia Sud, 41 (Banditelle).