Ristorante Gallo Nero, via del Porrione, Siena

An unassuming and keenly-priced restaurant in one of the historic streets not far from the Campo, Gallo Nero is popular with lunching locals. Try and get a table in the ground floor room, which is dark, but atmospheric, rather than upstairs, where the very low arched brick ceiling and small windows can bring on claustrophobia. The menu has a range of Italian staples or you can opt for one of the 'medieval' dishes, which include duck, pear or similarly earthy ingredients. But the best value has to be the promotional menu - a large glass of table wine and two courses, such as fresh spaghetti with a bolognese sauce or a white bean, tomato and sausage casserole for just 10 euros. It is simple, but tasty food. Kids will probably be happy with a pasta dish with a glass of mineral water for 6 euros. Gallo Nero is staffed with good-natured young waiters who speak excellent English. 7/10