Porcini and Polenta at Franco's

This time of year in Barga is probably the best time of year for those people who have discerning taste buds. This year has been a wonderful autumn with the bright sunny clear days, cool nights and just the right amount of rain to bring a bumper crop of the finest porcini mushrooms anywhere in europe. Add to that some fine home ground polenta from Ceserana and you have the perfect dish; polenta and porcini.

This morning 6 members of the Barga Band sat down to eat with a dozen close friends a superbly prepared dish of the afore mentioned delicacies.

The table was prepared at Bar Sport by the ever hospitable Franco (with some sterling help in the kitchens from his mother, and a certain trumpet player well known the area for other activities to do with enjoyment at the table.

What better way to spend a Saturday lunchtime as the season draws to a close but with good friends and great food.

What was once the food of the poor has become the food of the fortunate.
Anyone who was seated at the table this morning should count themselves as very, very lucky to partake in such a simple, honest and tasty meal.

Well done Franco and all those concerned. More images here