After a day’s visit to the Cinque Terre, we had booked a table in Osteria Della Corte before driving back to Florence. The restaurant is a 5 to 10 minutes’ walk from La Spezia train station.

The overall service was good. To start with I ordered the risotto with pear as starter. The plate was nicely presented, decorated with a few petals and edible silver foils. The risotto was nicely cooked and the sauce went well with the pear. It really did set a high expectation on our main dishes.

We ordered sea bass and beef fillet as our main course. The beef fillet was a generous big piece, however, it was a bit overcooked according to the request for medium rare. The balsamic vinegar sauce was a bit insufficient to go with the big piece of meat.

As we had to rush back to Florence, we were too rush for the dessert. However, judging from the appearance of the dishes ordered by the neighbouring tables, it seemed that appetizers and desserts were more attractive. When the lady chef came out for a chat with the guests, that explained the nice presentation of dishes and choice of flowers for decoration.

The Chef is very kind and professional. Her food is just exquisite, innovative but based on the local traditions. Gnocchi with fish and mushrooms were delicious, as were the desserts. Well worthwhile a dinner but remember to book in advance.

I can't remember ever going to the same restaurant 2 nights in a row, but the cuisine, value for money, service and pleasant atmosphere were so good we didn't look elsewhere. Great food especially the pasta entrees, meat and desserts. Just a minor complaint that more vegetables were needed to balance the main courses.

Outstanding value for money including the wine.

Simply delicious - went two nights in a row. The food is sensational and original. The setting is pleasant with exposed stone walls and the service warm but not obtrusive.