Lucca, eat like the locals

Try La Bottega di Anna & Leo on Via San Frediano. We ate there in March--very good!

Trattoria da Leo. Very good, usually busy with locals. We found it when we asked a shopkeeper in a ceramic store where he ate in lucca. He didn't just tell us, he walked us there. Been there several times now.... But cash only.

If you want to eat like a Lucchese, you should look for a restaurant that doesn't cost more than 5 euro for a full meal.

Lucchesi are famous in Tuscany for their stinginess.

From a summer 2016 trip

Trattoria Canuleia. We sat outside on the terrace (well actually it's a full backyard) behind this beautiful restaurant. The trees formed a canopy over the tables, which were covered with beautiful linens. The service and the food were both exceptional. We lingered over lunch until we were the last ones there.

We also really enjoyed "Local Food Market" (yes, its real name, not translated). The terrace there has dozens of beautiful lemon trees. Also really terrific food. Busy both times we went but mostly Italians.

I concur with the Leo recommendation. We also ate some really good pizza at Bella 'mbriana on via bella cavalerizza 29. I also liked Forno Giusti on via Santa Lucia 20. Had some great focaccia there which I incorporated, along with other items, for a picnic up on the ramparts.

Thank you everyone for your suggestions. We will be in Lucca for 3 nights (perhaps 4 if we absolutely fall in love with Lucca). I'm sure we will try each one of your recommendations. With several other nights in both Rome and Florence we want to experience the true Italy. Grazie, Ciao!

Loved Trattoria Gigi so much we ate there two nights.

We had excellent meals at Osteria Cantine Bernardini and Gigi Trattoria.

Sounds like we won't go hungry. Any place open later afternoon - 4 or 5:00 for wine and cheese or similar?

Well, looks like we won't go hungry with all your help. Any suggestions of places to have a glass of wine in the late afternoon or early evening before dinner?

To work up a good appetite - rent a bicycle and ride around the city wall, then climb at least 2 of the tall towers.
I LOVE Lucca

I'm appreciating these tips.

I am saving this post too! Thanks!!