Fiaschetteria Pistoia

Utrechtsedwarsstraat 85A, Amsterdam, Netherlands

Fiaschetteria Pistoia is exactly what it sounds like: a place for Italian wine and food that doesn't try to be anything else. The Amsterdam Centrum spot sits on Utrechtsedwarsstraat, and the vibe is rooted in tradition that goes back to 1890 in Tuscany. You're here for imported wines served from what looks like a milk bottle rack, and food that comes straight from family recipes headed by "nonna." The menu is built on ingredients imported from Italy, with fresh homemade pasta every day. They're open from 5, so it's more of an evening thing. If you're into Italian food beyond the usual pizza and pasta, they've got stuff like sformatino and panna cotta that they're clearly proud of. The panzanella salad is apparently summer on a plate, which is a good enough reason to show up. What makes it worth a visit is the lack of pretense. This is a family operation that's been doing the same thing across generations, and it shows in the details. The name itself comes from "fiaschi," those round gl…