We are planning a trip in the spring for a friend's birthday. I would like to arrange for us to have a meal prepared or have a tasting of some sort (wine, cheese, oil) in our villa one night by a local chef or company that does those sorts of things. We will be just northeast (10 minutes) of Siena. Any suggestions?

Diva, do you still do this?

If not, try La Cucina Giuseppina; and do also check the ST classifieds.

There is also a sommelier who brings an unusual wine tasting to you. Now that the blood alcohol level is so low, it's a great idea. I have talked to a couple of people who have used the service, which really pays if you are a group of 8 or more.

We had a chef twice in our rental villa in Siena and booked her through a travel agency based in Siena.

THANKS to all of you for your responses - I will let you know what we do!

quote:

Diva, do you still do this?

If Judy still does this she would be a great choice. We thoroughly enjoyed the day we spent with her a few years back. She has a warm spirit, infectious laugh, and is a tremendous cook. She knows the best local producers and could certainly point you in the right direction for tastings, etc.

Thank you Jerry - Judy emailed me after my initial post. I am trying to arrange our schedule so that we can join her for Monday in the Market in Florence, as our villa is a bit distant for her to do a dinner on site! I appreciate the encouragement!

did you find someone?

Judy - I have corresponded with a group located (i think) in or near Siena. I'm considering whether to engage them - mostly because of the expense. I do appreciate your help - I am also trying to figure out how to be in Florence on Monday so I might join you in the markets.

Elisa Berghi, who is based in Greve, receives very high marks from her clients. I have corresponded with her and felt very comfortable with her and her services, but I haven't had the pleasure of meeting her. You can read more about her here: http://www.greve-in-chianti.com/elisa.htm?PHPSESSID=5d3...78958151d28e0d7acfcb.

I have had the pleasure of meeting Diva and also highly recommend her.

Thanks Suzy - her prices look far more reasonable than what I'd seen elsewhere. Judy sounds great!! But I think my villa is too far away from her for it to work. I've emailed Elisa. I appreciate the info.

You should check with the person through whom you arranged your rental, i.e. either the owner or the rental agency. Also, if you make alternate arrangements, suggest you make sure that these are acceptable to the owner.