It was mid-afternoon when we arrived at our accommodation somewhere in the Umbrian countryside. We were on day one of a short road trip out of Bologna and had headed for Solomeo, a small village southwest of Perugia.

By the time we landed at Borgo Mandoleto, at the end of a gravel road outside the town, we were hot and hungry. Happily, there was a little restaurant right across the way – pretty much in the middle of nowhere. Though we were late for lunch, the lovely lady at our accommodation telephoned to ask if they would still feed the hungry Australians. Very happily, they would.

Before we’d finished that lunch, we’d also made a dinner reservation – and not because the restaurant ‘Valter a Solomeo’ was the only option that didn’t require a long drive. The food was outstanding.

Elena, the owner and chef, popped out to say hello and we got to chatting about her practice of selecting only the best local ingredients and preparing them simply and well. We could attest to the success of her approach. And then Elena mentioned in passing that Stanley Tucci – ‘do you know? the actor?’ – was coming in for dinner that night. Stanley. Tucci. The actor. I swooned, Elenor laughed, and said she’d seat us close to his table. And she did.

What an evening it was! When Stanley and his family arrived, they were as lovely as you’d imagine them to be. As he took his seat right next to our table, Stanley gave us a broad smile and we exchanged ‘buona seras’. It was our only interaction with him, and it was enough. He was delightful, with everyone. Elena had cooked for Stanley Tucci before and, as she’d said earlier – he was ‘ordinary, very nice.’

Valter, Elena’s husband who runs front of house, and Andrea, their terrific main man, took very good care of the Tucci table – and us all. Though he’s not so widely-recognised in Italy, Valter and Andrea knew we were excited to be dining in the same space as Stanley Tucci and, as little treats were brought to the special guest’s table – honeyed fresh figs, Spagnoli chocolates – so, too, they landed on ours with a little nod and wink from Valter.

After Stanley and his family left – it was clear they’d enjoyed their dinner – Valter and Andrea both hurried over to confirm we’d had a good evening. We certainly had. The food had been amazing, the location perfect and the company … well, …

Elena emerged from the kitchen and we reaffirmed how much we’d appreciated her wonderful food and the care they’d all shown for us. Elena asked if we would have a photo with them, and would we mind waiting while she prepared a small gift? As she hurried back to the kitchen, Andrea proudly shared pictures of his beautiful family, and Valter explained that he’d come late to hospitality but that he loved it for the happiness they could bring to people. When Elena returned she presented us with a jar of the rose jam she makes to accompany the cheese. It was all amazing.

What’s better than dinner with Stanley Tucci? Without a doubt, it’s meeting people as kind and caring as these, and enjoying the food they prepare and share with love. Our evening with Valter, Elena, Andrea – and Stanley Tucci – was one we’ll long remember.