Circolo dei Forestieri doesn’t mean “circle of forest workers”. It was the Foreigners’ Club years ago. The building was rebuilt in 1924 over an existing 18th century structure. It was the meeting place of visitors to Bagni di Lucca and used for gambling until 1936.
It is now a restaurant. There is a lovely big dining room inside and in summer there is outdoor dining in front of the restaurant and a delightful terrace at the back, with pretty views over the river.
Although it looks quite grand the food is very reasonably priced……and very good. I photographed my own delicious food and the lovely people at the next table kindly let me take theirs as well.
That was my caprese salad and the bread that came with it was hot from the oven.
A lemon sorbet arrived between courses.
Say hello to Giovanni and Sabina…..and have a great meal.
PS. Unfortunately Circolo dei Forestieri has closed. Is there anyone out there who would like to run a restaurant in Bagni di Lucca??? It would be great to see someone take it over and bring it to life again.
Many years ago the Circolo dei Forestieri was surrounded by huge trees. Fortunately the new ones are growing.
Bella Bagni di Lucca 