One of the greatest delights of staying at villas in Italy is the wealth of options for cuisine - and the small region of Umbria is no exception. Here, the food is fresh, simple but richly flavorful - with a repertoire of dishes based on family traditions that have been passed down from generation to generation. Not to mention, the region's capital, Perugia, is world famous for chocolate. While restaurants in Umbria range from casual fare to highly elegant, there is one thing they have in common: robust, decadent flavor; the addition of local black truffles and chilies give even a simple pasta dish or risotto an unexpected flare. So whether you're new to the culinary arts or a full-fledged connoisseur, dishes at these restaurants are sure to stick in your mind and surprise your palate.

Osteria dell'Enoteca
This restaurant occupies the space of a former Spoleto 12th century tavern for a truly unique dining atmosphere with high stone ceilings and dark wooden benches. Patrons can pair traditional dishes, like the truffle omelette and strangozzi alla spoletina, or shoelace pasta in a tomato, garlic and chili sauce, with a glass of wine from the rows and rows of bottles that line the walls. 

Apollinaire
You won't find anything quite like Apollinaire on your trip, as it's where Umbrian tradition meets California-style cuisine. Innovative options like squid-ink pasta with crayfish and pesto and rabbit in a black olive sauce are highly different from the ordinary dishes in this region. The menu changes seasonally and is vegetarian-friendly. Brick walls, flickering candlelight and low wood-beamed ceilings create a quaint and highly intimate ambience, making this an ideal spot for a romantic dinner. 

Ristorante degli Abeti
There's nothing light about the fare at this eatery - so leave your diet at your luxury rentals. Red meat and cream sauces are the stars in this menu of rich dishes, such as pappardelle con cinghiale e tartufo (pasta with wild boar and truffles) and prosciutto di cinghiale (ham with wild boar).

Osteria dell'Angelo
​Considered by many local food writers to be one of the best restaurants in Umbria, this elegant trattoria has gained popularity in recent years, and with good reason: Your meal is being prepared by the winner of the 2000 "Chef to Watch" competition. Save room for the banana soufflé with a rum-and-cream sauce, or the lightly spiced biscuits - perfect for dunking in sweet dessert wine.

Restaurant Fiorfiore
Olive oil, vegetables, cheese, truffles and other ingredients at Restaurant Fiorfiore are exclusively cultivated in the Roccafiore estate. Even the cold meats are cured from the ancient Cinta Senese breed reared on the Roccafiore Farm. Their attention to quality has garnered them praise from Michelin Guide, Gambero Rosso, Ristoranti d'Italia and other prestigious food guides. In the summer, opt to sit on the panoramic terrace overlooking Todi.

Ristorante Zeppelin 
Traditional jazz music transports guests back to the 1920s at this inviting, unusual Umbrian restaurant. A range of fare, from traditional selections to vegetarian options and even kid-friendly choices make this a great spot for family dining. If you're looking to pick up some cooking skills from the pros, you can even take lessons at the restaurant.

Are you interested in luxury vacation rentals? Contact Villas of Distinction today at 800.289.0900 where a qualified villa expert will help you explore which luxury villa best suits your lifestyle.