“ The most incredible dining experience we’ve had in Italy and absolutely in my top 5 of all time. The restaurant is in such a unique set up, each plate has been meticulously selected by the owner. The dishes are delicate takes on Italian classics, considered, delicious and perfectly portioned. The care and passion they have for their guest’s experience is unlike anything I’ve been part of before. If you’re looking for a moment that will stay with you forever - you must go here! ”

“ Wonderful experience for the dinner in my holiday, excellent pairing with wine and the food, food is also with very much fantastic content and traditional explanation. Definitely deserves a visit in Toskana ”

“ One of the greatest dining experiences I’ve ever had! Starting with the fabulous wait staff, Monica and Giacomo were incredibly kind and hospitable and very knowledgeable about the food and wine. We had the Origami tasting which was 7 delicious courses plus the 5 glass wine pairing. The food was sophisticated and incredibly unique, with highlights like a coffee and basil cod, tomato and coffee cold pasta, and pigeon breast with a corn reduction. The wine selections were perfect for each course and incredibly unique. The ambience of the restaurant was peaceful with classic yet chic decor and in the garden it felt like you were in your own little world. This truly is a Michelin star restaurant in the making, I highly recommend coming here on your visit to Cortona. But definitely make sure to get a reservation! ”

“ This is a superb restaurant in the heart of the ancient city of Cortona. It features three tasting menus, one focused on vegetarian offerings; one which infuses coffee into each dish, and one that features all of the favorite dishes of the restaurant. In addition, the restaurant offers a three or five glass Wine pairings, and I strongly recommend the five glass wine pairing simply for the experience of several unique vintages. The restaurant is located in a historic bakery, and the family has remodeled the facility entirely while keeping touchstones to its historic past. It’s a beautiful space on the second floor and features small nightly seatings of only five or six tables. The staff is incredibly attentive and serves each unique dish in unique plates and settings. And, because the family who developed the restaurant were originally bakers, the bread and Grasini are not to be missed. The food is wonderful and memorable. More than one friend has told me it was the best food they’ve had in Italy. The dishes begin with simple hors d’oeuvres and continue through unique courses that feature local ingredients prepared by a gifted chef. This isn’t simply good cooking. It’s a memorable meal created by an international quality chef. This restaurant is focused on a complete experience that blends location & environment, service, and incredible foods. L’Ortino was identified as one of the top new restaurants in Italy last year, and are clearly on their way to a Michelin star. Do not miss this experience. My husband and I have taken our friends and family here over the last year and a half and they never disappoint. ”

“ A hidden gem in Cortona. My wife and I decided to spend the evening in Cortona and spoil ourselves. We were not disappointed. A fine dine in restaurant run by a Cortona family with some much history. We give this restaurant ten out of ten. Excellent food, service outstanding and the ambiance cannot be faulted. ”

“ A meal to remember! We had a lovely 5-course vegetarian tasting menu for our whole family - including the kids (although they could have chosen to order a la carte) who are 10 and 12. Reservations recommended as one of your highlight meals! It was such a beautiful experience and the flavors were outstanding. They are the same family who also run Cafe and Pasticceria Vanelli so the nods to coffee were so fun. Thank you for a beautiful and magical night! ”

“ My sister and I ended our 10-day sister trip through Italy with dinner at L’Ortino in Cortona, and it was truly the most magical experience imaginable. Tucked just three narrow streets away from the busy, touristy center of Cortona, this hidden gem feels like a secret you’re lucky enough to discover — and I’m so glad I made a reservation in advance. From the moment we stepped into the beautiful courtyard, it felt like we were being welcomed into a family’s gorgeous home rather than a typical restaurant. The atmosphere was warm, intimate, and special in every way — so intimate, in fact, that there were only three other dining tables besides ours. We chose the 7-course chef’s tasting menu, which turned out to be one of the best meals I have ever had in my life. Each dish was thoughtful, beautifully presented, and absolutely delicious. I’m honestly surprised the James Beard or Michelin folks haven’t descended upon this place yet — but it’s only a matter of time. Monica and Giacomo, the incredible Maître d'hôtel duo, made the evening even more unforgettable. Their service was the smoothest and warmest I’ve ever experienced, attentive without being intrusive, and always making us feel genuinely cared for. In the end, they felt like friends. L’Ortino is so much more than just a meal; it’s an experience that feels personal and heartfelt. This place is truly special and absolutely perfect for the last night of a beautiful trip. If you find yourself in Cortona, do not miss this phenomenal dinning experience. ”

“ What an amazing experience overall! From the dreamy location and delicious food to the impeccable service, this evening kicked off our first-ever trip to Italy in the most magical way. We chose the 5-course tasting menu with wine pairings, and every dish was perfectly matched with a thoughtfully selected wine. Giacomo and Monica were not only warm and welcoming but incredibly knowledgeable about the ingredients and wines. One of the most surprising and delightful aspects was the creative use of coffee in each course—especially the pasta! It was unexpected, yet absolutely amazing. What truly made this meal extraordinary was the sense of tradition and family history woven into every detail of the restaurant. You can feel the passion and pride behind it all. I would return to Cortona just to dine here again and see Giacomo and Monica. A truly special place that we’ll remember forever. ”