La Lanterna

La Lanterna: Follonica, since 1959

Here, they don't sell you dreams, they serve you the real thing. La Lanterna has been a family business in Follonica since 1959, an address that has seen generations come and go and that still gets the job done. Looking for a place that doesn't bother with frills but delivers on the plate, especially when it comes to seafood? It's right here.

What you really eat here

The house is clear: their specialty is fish. They highlight seafood dishes prepared with the catch of the day. That's the kind of detail that matters. You can expect things like the "Polpo fritto su pappa al pomodoro", fried octopus served on a pappa al pomodoro, or an "Antipasto di mare misto" to start. And for those who like raw fish, there's the "Tartare di tonno fresco". It's not starred-chef cuisine, but it's good food, the kind that smells of the sea and tradition.

It's also a pizzeria, so if you're in the mood for pizza, you'll find what you're looking for. The atmosphere, from what I read, is that of a family-run restaurant in the town center. No sea view or designer decor, but a pleasant setting, a simple and accessible place. Basically, you come here to eat, not to take pictures for Instagram. It's the kind of place where you feel at ease, no frills.

Why this table rather than another

If you're in Follonica and looking for a solid, well-known and consistent address, La Lanterna is a classic. It's not the secret spot nobody knows about, it's the place locals have been going to for decades. For a meal at around 25 euros per person, you get honest seafood cuisine, served in a place that doesn't take you for a passing tourist. It's a safe bet for a good fish dish or a simple, effective pizza.