"Mangia Bene"

What makes Florentine food so special is the simplicity of it. Enormous amounts of spice and herbs are not used, but instead the Florentine's rely on fresh vegetables and fruits picked from nearby farms. Here are a couple recommended dining experiences:

Mercato Centrale
It's a large red building filled with fresh fruits and vegetables, authentic Italian ceramics, butchered meats, fresh baked breads, and our favorite...Perini Deli. The owner is always working behind the deli case ready to give you samples of his fresh meats, cheeses, and sauces. It's a must see.
Huge red building in San Lorenzo

Il Che C'e C'e
In English, this restaurant means, "whatever there is, there is." In other words, whatever is fresh in the markets that day is what you'll see on their menu. Via dei Magalotti, 11

Trattoria 13 Gobbi
The atmosphere and food are one of a kind at this restaurant.
Via del Porcellana, 9

Acqua al Due
A favorite restaurant in Florence. Order the Assiago di Primi, (first dish tastes) which are 5 pasta dishes the Chef has chosen for the night. Via Vigna Vecchia 40

 

This Picture to the right is taken from a "secret cafe" in Piazza della Repubblica.
Che Bella

FIRENZE, TOSCANA, ITALIA

FLORENCE, TUSCANY, ITALY

One of the most beloved cities in Italy and in my view the most beautiful to visit in April, is Florence. March is too cold, May is flooded with tourists. Ahhh, but April...It's just right. It's a small city packed with an abundance of life, from the outdoor markets to world famous art. Florence culture is thriving!

 

Il Pane

If you have ever been to Florence, you will probably agree with me when I say the bread is tasteless. Centuries ago the Florentine king put a large tax on salt. In result of this, the people started baking bread without salt. The salt tax is gone,but the saltless bread lives on. Travel further South for better bread.

 

 

 

 

To Do

Some of the world's most famous art, can be found at the Uffizi Gallery. At one time the gallery was used as an office building for the Medici family, hence the name Uffizi (offices).

Il Duomo is centered in the heart of the city. Contrary to what many think, the duomo is not called the duomo because it's a church made with a huge dome. The Duomo in Latin, means the house of God. I recommend taking a hike to the top for an inside view of Florence.

My favorite piazza in Italy is right next to the Duomo called Piazza della Repubblica. You can sit and enjoy an espresso for hours, while watching the people pass by and listen to the sounds of street performers.

For all your Italian souveneir needs, go to San Lorenzo Market.

To get a view of the whole city, Piazza Michaelangelo is a must. Hike to the top and get a picture to remember your time in Florence.

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The Arno River runs through Florence. There are many bridges that cross the river, but the most famous bridge is the Ponte Vecchio. You can find Gelaterie and Jewerly shops on this bridge.