Romantic restaurants in one of the most romantic cities
Florence, considered one of the most romantic cities in the world, is the ideal venue for an anniversary. Many tourists decide to plan a trip to Tuscany, just to spend days walking hand in hand along the Arno river, accross the Ponte Vecchio or have a romantic ride on an open-air carriage through Florence's medieval streets.
Are you dreaming of a unforgettable holiday in Florence? When the moment of dinner arrives, you will find a wide selection of cozy restaurants for your special occasion. For once in your life, don't ask about prices, just relax and enjoy... here are my recommendations for places that are ideal for celebrating and enjoying a special meal.
1. BSJ (Borgo San Jacopo)
Borgo San Jacopo, 62/R - side street parallel to the Arno river
This elegant Michelin 1 starred restaurant sitting just few steps away Ponte Vecchio, belongs to the Lungarno Collection group owned by Italian designer Salvatore Ferragamo. It's run by chef Peter Brunel from the Val di Fassa in th Dolomites. Don't be surprised by the creativity in the menu, filled with many fish options but also wonderful tasting menus. If you want to impress your special one, make sure to reserve the table in the small terrace upon the Arno River with the stunning view of the Ponte Vecchio in front of your eyes. You will never forget that evening for your whole life. Take a look at the menu and more on the official site.
2. SE-STO on Arno
Piazza Ognissanti - top terrace of the Westin Excelsior Hotel
Have you ever dreamt of eating atop the world (or at least atop Florence), feeling like you were seating on the clouds in the sky? Here, this dream is almost possible. The name SE-STO refers to the fact that we are on the sixth floor (for Florence it's quite high, considering all the historical building are low). Transparent glasses allow you to have a 360° view on the roofs of the city. You will have the sensation of touching San Frediano in Cestello's red domed chapel across the river with your fingers. Have a bottle of Chianti, or maybe some champagne, with the sun setting in front of your eyes. Comfortable seats, soft music and excellent food are a perfect combination for this modern refined restaurant located in Piazza Ognissanti. Visit the official site.
3. Ora d'Aria
Via dei Georgofili 11R - a small side street between Ponte Vecchio and the Uffizi
A young talented chef, Marco Stabile, with a passion for food experiments, is the "God under the Machine" of this innovative starred restaurant close to Ponte Vecchio. Try the lunch formula with the “tapas” (every dish is available in regular or small size) or live a great foodie experience for dinner in a contemporary atmosphere. Excellent wines will be served with your choices. You can “spy” the secrets of the chef inside the kitchen, which is completely open towards the dining room, and be impressed by the originality of his creations at this 1 starred Michelin restaurant. Check out the menus on the official website.
4. Enoteca Pinchiorri
Via Ghibellina, 87 - open only for dinner, tie and jacket for the gentlemen requested
Here we are at the temple of high cuisine: 40 years of experience, 3 Michelin stars, the 5th largest wine cellar in the world (name a wine and you will have it!), an historical Florentine palace close to Santa Croce and perfect service which are all the components (very successful) of Enoteca Pinchiorri, owned by Giorgio Pinchiorri and his wife Annie Feoldie, who run it with passion since 1973. Probably your credit card will never forget this place, but neither will your loved one. An explosion of flavors, smells, unusual combinations, and bizzarre creations will show you how far they can arrive to astonish guests. Enjoy the reading of the huge wine list! Check out the various menus, wine list and hours on their official site here. Reservations required.
5. Four Seasons - Il Palagio
Borgo Pinti, 99 - Four Seasons Hotel - open only for dinner
The luxury 5 star hotel opened its Florentine venue only 6 years ago, but it has become famous, thanks to the talent of the executive chef Vito Mollica who launched the inner restaurant Il Palagio, receiving their first Michelin star very soon thereafter. The refinement of his touch while preparing excellent dishes has reached even locals, who attend the restaurant for a spectacular Sunday brunch. During the summer, you may eat in the garden, admiring the 6 hectares of park full of trees and flowers right in the center of Florence, or have a homemade pizza or a barbecued steak, close to the swimming pool at the second restaurant Al Fresco (open from June through September). You can check out both their menus on their website here as well as their opening hours.
