It was April 25, 1974. The people of Arezzo were traveling aboard the legendary 600 Fiat. On the radio we listened to Iva Zanicchi who had recently won the Sanremo Festival. Arezzo was still experiencing its golden years. That day, in Pian di Chena, in the municipality of Laterina, Luciano Prolai opened the doors of his restaurant: “Lo strictio” and today, ten decades later, the restaurant celebrates 50 years.
The place was inaugurated precisely for the Liberation Day: a pizzeria and refreshment point for the many visitors, especially fishermen, who frequented the Arno in the oasis of Bandella and Valle dell’Inferno.
Since then, “Lo Strettoio” has become a point of reference for the Tuscan culinary tradition, transforming itself into a welcoming and functional place where you can enjoy homemade pasta and grilled meat, but also seafood specialties and excellent pizzas cooked in the oven wood-fired, all accompanied by a wide selection of wines from the best labels. In these 50 years it has overcome the economic crises that have overwhelmed Italy, it has served its dishes to generations of Arezzo and continues to look forward. Today it also stands out for its specialization in gluten-free cuisine, offering a wide variety of dishes for gluten intolerants
In recent days Confcommercio presented Luciano with a “lifetime achievement” plaque for 50 years of activity. It was the president of Confcommercio Valdarno Nord, Federica Vannelli, together with the delegation manager Roberta Soldani, who awarded the recognition to Luciano Parolai.
The Tuscan culinary tradition has been handed down since then, remaining however in the family. In fact, the restaurant continues to be family-run: in the company, together with Luciano, there are in fact the Loriano brothers, Deborah, Michela, the cousins and their spouses.
“With particular affection I congratulate the entire Parolai family for achieving this extraordinary goal – comments President Vannelli – The Strettoio is a true pillar of our community, a testimony to the passion, dedication and culinary tradition that characterize the our Valdarno. Since its inception way back in 1974, it has been able to win the hearts and palates of generations of customers, offering a one-of-a-kind gastronomic experience”.
This evening there will be a party in Pian di Chena, where the restaurant will offer refreshments from 7pm to 10pm.
