Farm-to-table cuisine is something we’re fortunate to have ample options for in Massachusetts with farms spread throughout our verdant state. It's even better when the farm-fresh ingredients are used to create scrumptious Italian dishes to bring a taste of Tuscany to the Bay State. You must try Osteria Vespa in Amherst as soon as possible. It’s one of the best farm-to-table restaurants in Massachusetts.

Don’t let the shopping center location fool you. Osteria Vespa is among the best Italian restaurants in Amherst as well as one of the best farm-to-table restaurants in the state. It is the creation of Jonathan Welch, who got his start in the Bay Area of California and brought his expertise across the country.

He purchased a local farmstand and got to work creating a gorgeous restaurant with a rustic, yet upscale style blending Tuscan and modern decor. The food is in keeping with this vision.

Even the starters are works of culinary art with options like panelle with lemon aioli and gremolata, spicy Calabrian chili shrimp, yuzu hummus, a cured meat plate, and so much more.

The cocktails are on point and there’s a quality selection of fine wines; however, it wouldn’t be Italian without a good sampling of grappa. There is also a wide variety of excellent beers to choose from.

The mains are a delicate balance of detailed flavors and hearty goodness which are sure to satisfy. The pasta is made fresh, in-house, as are the sauces. Meats come from farms all over New England.

You’ll be treated to pork, lamb, and beef from Vermont and New Hampshire, quail and rabbit from Vermont, cage-free chicken from Pennsylvania, and local cheeses from Massachusetts.

Even the seafood is freshly caught from the Atlantic Ocean. Fresh is the name of the game here, and your taste buds will be filled with flavor and gratitude. You may even think you’ve stepped through a portal to Tuscany.

Do yourself a favor and try to save a little room for dessert. Imagine it: limoncello almond cake with lemon curd and lime mascarpone. There’s also vanilla panna cotta and, of course, a delightful tiramisu. Opening hours are limited so make a reservation as soon as you can.

Have you ever had the fortune to enjoy a delectable meal at Osteria Vespa in Amherst? If so, what was your favorite thing to eat there? Do you have any other favorite farm-to-table restaurants in Massachusetts? Let us know about your favorite dishes and restaurants in the comments. Be sure to follow Osteria Vespa on Facebook for current updates and specials. While you’re visiting Amherst, be sure to explore more to find out what makes this city so lovely to visit: