The Fratelli Sarti family have established a strong reputation that relies on both the quality and authenticity of their Tuscan and Ligurian food. Their three successful operations in Glasgow are testimony to their achievement, and each one boasts its own distinctive style and ambience. From the Murano chandeliers in Renfield Street and the Italian-courtyard feel of Bath Street, to the deli-style café you can find in Wellington Street, these three restaurants all have an assurance of quality that comes from a rich culinary heritage. While one menu is served by all three branches, each is distinguished by its own varying daily specials.

To start, our wild boar wrapped in mozzarella and baked with Parmesan gave a great first impression of what Tuscan cuisine can offer. The test for any kitchen is often its execution of simple classics – a Caprese salad with fresh buffalo mozzarella and beef tomatoes delivered beautifully, and was completed by a top-quality olive oil. Similarly, our bruschetta – often erroneously modified – relied solely on the quality of Altamura bread and tomatoes mixed with copious amounts of garlic; a truly rustic dish delivered in its proper form.

A wide selection is on offer for mains, with intriguing choices that transcend the standard pizza-pasta combo. The house specialties combine regional dishes with national classics, with scallopine al marsala sitting alongside a rich Tuscan stew that includes homemade sausages. Our pollo alla cacciatora, a traditional hunter’s dish, reminded us why braised dishes can be so comforting: on-the-bone chicken melting apart into a rich sugo, spiked with olives and rosemary. The house favourite of spaghetti allo scoglio, teamed with fresh seafood and coated in a light tomato sauce with a hint of chilli, was cooked to perfection.

Desserts also bypass the staid formula, and include specialities rarely seen outside the regional areas of Italy, with a baba al rhum and a torta di mele Toscana (a type of Tuscan apple pie) being the highlights. There is no secret formula to Fratelli Sarti’s success; all three restaurants rely on an authenticity that is seldom felt in other Italian establishments.