Lady Jane B. Boutique

Posted on October 16, 2019November 8, 2019 by Hannah Bain

What’s this place like?

Storefront Lady Jane B Vintage — Storefront Lady Jane B.

Lady Jane B. Boutique is small (roughly the size of a large walk-in closet) and packed from end to end, wall to wall. After being greeted by an assortment of ’50s and ’60s sunglasses as well as funkily patterned headbands and Dorthey-esque high heels in the window, it’s pretty difficult to not enter. To call it eccentric might just be an understatement. Upon entering, you can find racks of vintage clothes handpicked or handmade by the owner, whom is just as funky and eccentric as the clothes: complete with ’70s wispy bangs and a variety of eras represented in her daily outfits. She is always there and ready to offer you ways to pair accessories or wear something in multiple styles. I once witnessed her spend roughly ten minutes helping a woman stylize some pieces she was purchasing and snap a few pictures both with the woman and of the woman and her son, whom wondered around the store with the same curiosity that I find myself having each time I enter. It feels like being propelled back into different decades as told through your aunt’s collection of keep sakes, complete with black and white photos and old suitcases on the walls. The store’s collection features mostly tops and matches the owner’s flair for every era of the twentieth century: ’80s sequined tops, ’40s dresses, late ’60s blouses, ’70s jumpsuits. The store is remarkably warm, both in temperature and energy.

So, how do I get there?

While Lady Jane is not off the beaten path, I wouldn’t say its in the most popular district of Florence, either. It’s located in the Chiavi neighborhood, down the street from the Sant’Ambrogio Church and its accompanying small piazza, not far from the Sant’Ambrogio market. If you go during the evening, you’ll likely hear a jazz trio in front of the church, which I recommend checking out before or after you shop; the vintage style of music pairs nicely with the clothing. If you go during the afternoon, I recommend stopping at the market first (as the market closes early) to snag some fresh, local produce and walk amongst the locals.

Will I be breaking the bank?

That’s the best part. While you may be used to walking into a vintage shop (both in America and abroad) that features well crafted items and feeling discouraged when you see the price tag, that will not be the case here. Blouses are typically priced around €30, dresses €50, accessories €15 or less. Notably, the handmade items are not necessarily more expensive. You can own something no one else has ever owned or something that was once owned 5 decades ago for a similar, reasonable price. Not to mention, there’s always a sales rack with even better deals and it’s updated pretty regularly. I went in a week after the first time I went and saw some new items in the sale section.

What makes it so different from other shops in the area?

This boutique is different because it isn’t “Goodwill” vintage nor is it designer brand vintage. It’s extremely accessible fashion – recycled and/or homemade have you – that is truly fashionable. You’ll find clothing that is special and made well and makes you feel like you’re stepping back into a twentieth century decade (take your pick of which one – or mix & match). You can add some vintage flair with a pair of ’50s pinup sunglasses or roaring ’20s earrings. Or maybe get a ’70s dress and feel yourself fully pulled back into nostalgia. There’s fun colors, there’s great neutrals, and you’ll get a good deal without sacrificing quality.

What’re the hours like?

The only con I’ve found of the shop: its hours. I’ve found it to be very hit or miss, so I finally looked them up. The hours are not very consistent. Monday, Wednesday, and Thursday the store is open 3 PM to 8:30 PM, Friday 1:30 PM to 8 PM, and Saturday 3 PM to 8 PM. It is closed both Tuesdays and Sundays. I’m hoping I can persuade the owner to switch out a weekday for Sunday.

When’s the best time to go?

There’s really no bad time. The great thing about boutiques that are not neighbored by other clothing shops is they tend to be pretty slow often. I’ve found that closer to when it opens on the weekdays tends to be less crowded, while closer to closing is likely to have more people. It’s so small though, that only a few people in the store can feel like too many. The store is warm on its own and the extra body heat only makes it warmer. You’ll find it doesn’t both you too much, though, sifting through time, colors, and patterns.

Gino’s Bakery: A Home Away From Home

Posted on October 16, 2019November 14, 2019 by Josie Cataldo

Don’t worry, the food tastes just as good as it looks 😉

Gino’s Bakery

*This quaint, family owned and operated bakery is ideal for someone looking to stop somewhere that speedily serves flaky pastries and strong coffee.*

Sick of Slow?

You’re someone who weaves their way in and out of mind-numbingly crowded streets, someone who anxiously taps their foot while waiting for their coffee on their way to work, and finally, you’re someone who always has a different place to be and a different task to complete. If when you were reading the previous sentence you felt as if I was peering into your soul, then boy do I have the perfect hidden gem for you. Assuming you’re a frantic, frenzied individual from the Northeast like myself, Gino’s Bakery is your cup of tea, or more appropriately, your foamy, frothy cappuccino. A diamond in the rough located in a land where a slow lifestyle is cherished and encouraged, Gino strays from Italian tradition and feeds my craving for my usual, bustling Bostonian lifestyle.

Eye spy with my little eye a decent sized cappuccino cup!

Here’s How Gino Can Help…

Gino, a one-man assembly line, knows his idyllic oasis that stands within a modest, vertical shaped storefront is a place meant for someone who’s not necessarily in need of a leisurely bite. As you take your first steps into the bakery, you are enveloped by a frenzy of fast-pace enthusiasts: Gino acts as the puppeteer, maneuvering the strings of the well-oiled machine. The shop owner paces back and forth behind the confines of the glass pastry case where he caters quickly to those whose hands are flying in the air. The excessively outstretched limbs point viscously at the delicious pastries that float before their eyes. One second their hands are empty, and the next, they look down to see a croissant in their left and a cappuccino in their right; Gino has served them as speedily as they sputtered their orders at him.

Do I Need to Break the Bank?

Unlike some of the other sidewalk cafés that dot the streets of Florence, Gino’s does not charge you five euros for a cappuccino that can be finished in one measly sip. Just two euros will buy you the perfect early morning pick-me-up. I’d also like to point out how he manages to construct this larger cappuccino much quicker than the small ones you typically receive from those other overpriced joints. Additionally, for those of you looking to treat that little sweet tooth of yours, you can snag one of his prized cannoli’s for just three euros. With that price, maybe you’ll buy all the offered flavors that tantalize your eyes with their crispy crunchy shells and smooth and creamy fillings.

Who’s This So-Called Genius, Gino?

As professed in the earlier paragraphs, Gino is a man who seeks to serve those to whom fast pace is familiar. A man eerily similar to my PaPa, Gino will greet whoever walks into his shop with a smile as sweet as the sugar-dusted pastries that are strewn across each other in the glass display cases. How he manages to stay so calm among the chaos and craze that ensues from those crazy for his croissants baffles me. The shop is stiflingly hot from the heat radiating from those inside who are packed into the close quarters like sardines. However, Gino does not let this interfere with his groove. The marvelous man will swiftly craft your cappuccino with a smile on his face while simultaneously ringing you up at the register. For someone who hardly speaks or understands English, this man has made me feel more at home than anyone else I’ve encountered here.

Another delicious dessert for just three euros!

How Do I get The Full “Gino’s Experience?”

Although your experience at Gino’s will be short-lived due to his ability to serve you at the speed of light, you can prolong the joy you feel when inside the bakery by stopping by once in the morning AND once in the evening. In my eyes, one trip to Gino’s in a day is just not enough…take my advice and I’m confident you’ll feel the same.

Gino’s In the A.M.

For early risers like myself, I walk into Gino’s just as the warm morning sunlight seeps into the shop’s front window. The gooey glaze that Gino has just painted onto the fresh, flaky croissants makes the pastries sparkle and shine in the glass case that is heated up by the striking sunlight. In my eyes, the perfect pastry to be paired with one of Gino’s frothy, delicious cappuccinos is the intricately designed apple and cheese danish. It is at this time of day that the shop is at its quietest; you can really observe and marvel at the ease with which the motions of the shop are carried out. Despite the sleepy air that surrounds the bakery in its early hours, the fast-pace environment is not compromised. When I walk in and greet Gino, there is an understanding that I’m in a hurry and about to make the long trek to school where I’ll have to weave in and out of the masses of people. Within two minutes, I’m springing out the door, cappuccino and croissant in hand, with plenty of time to spare…thanks Gino!

Those perfectly golden brown shells I was talking about!

After the Sun Has Set…

Following a Florentine day full of miles upon miles of walking, weaving in-and-out of confused tourist groups, and picking up some produce from Sant’ Ambrogio market, one should reward themselves with yet another trip to my favorite hidden gem. Unlike the rest of the day’s long-winded adventures, you can take a sigh of relief knowing that this last stop will run smoothly with speedy efficiency. Upon your arrival, do you choose coffee, chocolate chip, pistachio, or cream filling for the cannoli that taunts your yearning eyes? Why not all four? You know it won’t take long for Gino to swipe one of each from the display case. Split the sensational Italian desserts in order to sample all of Gino’s genius fillings that ooze out of the golden-brown shells.

Where can I find Gino’s Bakery?

Via de’ Guicciardini, 3/5, 50041 Firenze FI

Contempo Records

Posted on October 16, 2019November 11, 2019 by andrea

Contempo Record

Looking for anywhere to let your musical yearnings free, those whose heart beat to a tune will find this to be one of the most extraordinary places. From the street, I wasn’t instantly drawn to the store with looks similar to every other Italian shop. Not much is seen from the street besides its sign which has muted colors and records plastered across it, but upon entering, things change very quickly. A seemingly quiet shop holds many great surprises as soon as you cross the threshold. Imagine, you see a brightly colored, neon vinyl store with records dangling precariously from the ceiling, it’s like a breath of fresh air compared to all of the dull colors found throughout the city. Alas, my curiosity led me through the front door, coaxed by the tunes drifting outside, and it did seem small at first, but I quickly realized there was much more to this deceptively tiny record shop.

Tell us a bit more about this place.

Some of the bright neon designs on the walls!

I began to do some research on my little record store and found that Contempo Records has been a record store and label since 1977. To me this was quite impressive and created a new air of importance about the shop. The store itself has a very relaxed atmosphere and decorations that resemble the 70s, from eclectic patterns on all of the walls to a fancy chandelier, there are many things to look at. I wanted to know a little more about the shop so I stopped by one day to ask them some questions. I discovered the owner is Giampiero Barlotti, he’s usually at the store with a smile on his face, and although he doesn’t speak English, there are a few other’s that work with him that speak enough English to help those who are visiting find exactly what they’re looking for. I also asked what types of genres were offered throughout the store and let me tell you, I was surprised with the variety! It really does not matter what music you’re looking for because I can guarantee that there will be a record with what you’re searching for hidden on one of the many packed shelves.

What is sold here, and who would find this shop interesting?

In my honest opinion, I think almost anyone could come and shop at this store, obviously if you’re really into records and older music you might enjoy it more than others. As a study abroad student, I felt like this store was an excellent place to get “lost” in. I found myself relaxed as I perused the many records tucked in their boxes. I myself like a lot of newer music and listen to genres like Hip Hop and R&B, but I even found records that fit my style, such as an old Eminem album. If you’re someone who will be spending a lot of time in Italy, this store has more to offer. The welcoming atmosphere and music alone make you feel at home. There are friends to be made and time to be spent bonding over the music held inside. The music in the store is organized in sections by whatever genre the record fits into, the front part of the shop holds most of its Rock sections and some American albums as well such as The Beatles. If you’re brave enough to venture into the back you can find country music, reggae, jazz and many other options that even I couldn’t believe that they had.

What kind of events does the store hold?

This lovely record shop will sometimes hold release events where artists can present their new work and sometimes even preform a few songs from their albums. The audience can talk to and ask the artists questions and can even get some autographs. They offer light food and beverages when they host these release parties. I went to talk to some of the guys that worked there, and they told me about the next event and invited me to come with big smiles and insisted that there would indeed be excellent food as well! Their social media sites are the best places to check out when their next events will be!

Is there contact information or ways to buy online?

Yes! Contempo records has a wonderful website, that I have explored myself, where you can find links to their Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube profiles. All of their websites post dates and information of any events the store might be holding and viewers can also check out what records they have for sale. They have a website for orders: info@contemporecords.it and another website for news: contempo@contemporecords.it . The store is also open Monday-Saturday from 10:30am until 7:30pm and they are open Sundays from 3:30pm until 7:30pm.

Where can I find Contempo Records?

La Citè – Liberia Caffè

Posted on October 16, 2019November 8, 2019 by swee

La Citè- Liberia Caffè

Something about the faint melody from the record spinning or the muffled chatter that leaks out of the slightly ajar door draws me into the cozy atmosphere of La Citè. This quaint coffee shop is almost unrecognizable after sundown. The quiet and concentrated nature of La Citè transforms into a lively atmosphere. La Citè is a local’s favorite for that mid-morning cappuccino or an evening nightcap.

This sign hangs proudly on the front window.

Is this just a coffee shop? What makes it so special?

Tucked away, far from any tourist traps, La Citè is in a world of its own. A tourist might stumble in for coffee, but a local knows it is so much more. This café is not meant to just satisfy your caffeine needs (although it can, I recommend the Almond milk latte), rather it is also a bookstore and wine bar. Unlike most coffee shops in Florence, La Citè urges its customers to sit down and stay awhile while drinking their morning coffee. Which isn’t hard to do at all with their sprawling patio and infinite couches adorning the space. Starting from my first visit there, I found myself right at home. The familiar bald man with the Polish accent, I now know as Robert, treats all of his customers like family. His generosity is endless—from covering my coffee when I forgot my wallet simply stating, “don’t worry about it” to even returning my sweater after I left it there. Chances are if you walk past La Citè, he will be out there, cigarette in hand, urging you to come in.

If you’re looking for Barnes and Noble, go somewhere else.

Used and new books scatter every corner of La Citè, making it irresistible to not pick one up. La Citè actually has 5,000 literary texts available to purchase in the café and in their online catalog. Although you don’t have to buy them, customers can enjoy the books free of charge while in the space. La Citè even offers free wifi (yes and it works) to access these online texts. This unconventional café supplies only the most unconventional books, as they are aiming to support local and independent titles. La Citè is open to suggestions if there are any novels you would like to see on their shelf.

When does the wine bar come into play?

When dusk arrives the music roars a bit louder, chatter becomes more fervent, and the coffee mugs are exchanged for wine glasses. La Citè believes reading and tasting go hand-in-hand and that is a notion we can get behind. They believe that one of the most “dangerous” effects of a fabulous glass of wine is individualism and passion. I dare you to attempt to order a glass of the Gewürztraminer Südtirol Alto Adige or if that is too difficult, just say the “sweet, white wine” to Robert (he’ll know what you are talking about). Don’t be mistaken, it is not sweet at all, but it is still the best glass of wine I’ve had in Italy. Their wine list has been carefully composed using the criteria

Don’t forget to try the Almond Milk Latte.

of fair trade, local, and organic. They only purchase wine from organic vineyards that do not use any synthetic chemicals or herbicides. Try asking a La Citè employee about the amount of sulfur in the wine or how long the wine fermented in oak barrels. They truly care about what you are putting in your body and pride themselves on the quality of wine they serve.

What else do they offer?

To put it simply— experiences. No matter what night of the week, you can find philosophers, authors, musicians, or really any type of creative thinker performing or hosting forums. This is a chance to get conversation flowing and debates sparked. They also have live music multiple nights a week and the nights they do not offer entertainment, they always have records spinning. This place is the definition of eclectic.

One of the very many cozy corners of La Citè.

I’m sold. Anything else that makes La Citè memorable?

No experience at La Citè is ever the same and that is what keeps me returning day-after-day and night-after-night. It doesn’t matter what time it is, the ambiance is always dynamic and just what I needed. The layout of La Citè allows for privacy in the upstairs rooms (if easily distracted like me) or can be quite the opposite if you choose to socialize downstairs. La Citè can be whatever you need it to be and somehow it always leaves me wanting more.

Where can I find La Citè?

Sant’Ambrogio Flea Market Stand

Posted on October 15, 2019November 8, 2019 by simmonds

In a sea of bobbing white tents, people, and produce, this stand of oddities was like a moving island. The first time that I happened upon it was towards the south end of the market. But the next week it was nowhere to be seen. Last Tuesday I spotted it again on the opposite side as it was on the original time of discovery. It truly is a gem that takes some work to find but so unique that it’s worth it!

Sant’Ambrogio Flea Market Table

Where can I dig up this gem?

This stand can usually be found somewhere within a local run market called Mercato di Sant’Ambrogio. Here the people of the market are like bees going from flower to flower; fruit stand to vegetable booth, only picking up what they need, buzzing about in a language not understood to me.

It is well organized for a local, but for an outsider like me, it is chaotic. I weave my way in and out of the people, but I only prove myself to be a clumsy American as I bump around aimlessly trying to fit in. I try to match their self assuredness when I point to what I want from their overflowing crates of produce, the little Italian I attempt to communicate sounding something like a babbling baby.

It is hidden just out of sight from the tourist infested city center, in a very residential area. If you don’t have a map, you can head in the North-East direction from the Church of Santa Croce until you reach a square with a large building in the center, surrounded by tents and tables. If you DO have a map, the exact address of the market is Piazza Lorenzo Ghiberti 50122 Florence Italy.

However, this specific flea market stand is sometimes hard to find as the vendors seem to move about quite a bit. You can look for the cluttered table around the outskirts of the market, with doll heads and run by a tall, skinny Italian man.

Flea market vintage sustainable travel abroad study Florence italy — Sant’Ambrogio Jewelry Stand

Vibe check! What’s the atmosphere like?

With my last ounce of dignity, I push my way to an open doorway, promising sunlight. That is when I see four tables covered in kick-knacks, pushed together to form a protective barrier around the salesman who stands guard of the cash register in the center.

The contents of the tables turns out to be books, scarves, doll heads, toys, and kitchenware of a random assortment. The old books beg me to open them for the first time in centuries, probably. The dolls heads follow me as I try to decide how someone might find a use for them.

Sant’Ambrogio is actually very calm compared to the Central Market. But because it is mostly made up of Florentines, I would brush up on your basic Italian. The owner of this specific stand is honestly uninterested in the customers, but will be much more helpful if you know some words like “Quanto” to ask “How much?”. It is not a good place for you if you’re an American wanting to blend in, but you can definitely get some good practice!

What kind of Knick-knacks can I find here?

I pick apart a colorful cluster of silky scarves in a basket, made even more complex by the odd patterns that adorn each piece of material. They look like how my brain feels by being in this new country, all full of beauty but in need of being understood piece by piece. I pick a brown, baby blue, and gold one, and a black one with stitching of various famous monuments in Paris.

Coming to this flea market stand, you don’t even need to be looking to buy. It’s a little activity to throw in while checking out this side of town. If you’re like me, you will be so intrigued by the oddities spread across the table, that you will end up sifting through it for some time.

Personally, I love vintage things for discounted prices. It is more real than a vintage boutique where prices can still be through the roof! The whole flea market section of Sant’Ambrogio is the perfect place to find very unique little gifts for other lovers of the thrifted. The two scarves that I found here were actually quite in style (as determined by my local H&M), and I got them for only 2.50 euros a piece. Beat that fast fashion!

I gather the courage to speak to the owner, finally speaking out “how much?” in Italian. He doesn’t turn around and I debate how much I really want these scarves. But in reality, it is not about the scarves. I have to prove to myself, and this man (who will not remember me in 5 minutes) that I can thrive in country that will be my home for the semester.

Flea market vintage jackets Burberry high end designer — Vintage Burberry Jackets at Sant’Ambrogio Market

I haven’t even seen the Ponte Vecchio yet, is this place worth it?

Even if you never visit the specific stand that I am featuring in this post, I would highly recommend still exploring the Sant’Ambrogio Flea Market and general area. There are hundreds of little gems to uncover, all run and frequented by the kindest, most interesting people. Plus you get a little taste of authenticity, and get to act like a local for a bit!

I reset my body language to its asking stance and ask for the price in a clear voice that could have been the born and raised Florentine behind to me. He glances as me for less than a second and we debate on the total for a little longer than that. I am able to purchase both of them for five euros rather than six.

He takes my money and turns away, respectfully ending the interaction. I walk away with 5 euros less than the small amount that I brought here, but with a high determination for the next few months.

Where can I find the Sant’Ambrogio Market?

Finding Love at the Church of Dante

Posted on October 10, 2019November 8, 2019 by Cyril Langston

The Church of Dante

Italy is filled with iconic love stories: Romeo and Juliet, Audrey Hepburn and that other guy in Roman Holiday, Lizzie McGuire and Paolo- we know them, we love them. But do you know about the couple that inspires love even today in Florence? I’m talking about Dante and Beatrice, the star-crossed lovers who never quite got their happy ending but are still in the spotlight of this city. Tucked away on the quiet street of Via Santa Margherita is a tiny church you’d never know was there unless you were looking for for it; here you can write a letter to Dante’s infamous muse and love Beatrice, asking for advice or protection of your love. Before you leave Florence, make sure to stop in and take a minute to reflect on love in one of the most notoriously romantic places in the world- if Dante and Beatrice couldn’t end up together, the least we can do is try our best in their honor.

I promise I know but give me a refresher… who’s Dante again?

Dante Alighieri is a Florentine poet who’s most famous for the Divine Comedy, his depiction of Hell, Purgatory, and Heaven. This poem is widely considered one of the most important literary works in the world, and was groundbreaking for Florence specifically because it’s written in the Tuscan dialect rather than Latin, which ended up establishing that as the standard Italian language (so… he’s kind of a big deal). You might also know him from the action movie named after his depiction of Hell with Graham McTavish and Mark Hamill, Inferno, which is fine too. He’s now considered the father of the Italian language, and is Florence’s patron saint of really cool statues (just kidding. But you will be able to find his face in just about every square you visit while you’re here).

Dante’s profile. You’re going to get real familiar with it while you’re here.

Okay cool. So who’s Beatrice and why should I entrust her with my love life?

Henry Holiday’s depiction of their second meeting. To be fair, she looks great.

Beatrice is Dante’s one true love and the object of his affection and inspiration throughout his entire life. In Dante’s Paradiso (the Heaven portion of the Divine Comedy), Beatrice guides Dante through the spheres of Heaven, which was quite progressive for 14th century epic poetry. In La Vita Nuova, he credits Beatrice with having woken his sleeping heart. At the end of that work he also declared to write about Beatrice “that which has never been written of any woman.” Swoon. Boring but necessary details: they only met at most four times and were married to other people before Beatrice died at age 24. They first saw each other when Dante was nine and Beatrice eight, and Dante fell in love immediately. The second time they saw each other was eight years later, when she was walking alongside the Arno, looking so beautiful in all white that Dante literally ran away when he saw her (stars: they’re just like us!). They were never actually in a relationship or, potentially, even a conversation, but Dante continued to write about her for the rest of his life, especially following her death. Dante is known for his love for Beatrice and the two are now symbols of deep, lasting love throughout Florence. This church is the sight of their first meeting and contains Beatrice’s tomb.

“I felt awoken in my heart
a loving spirit that was sleeping;
and then I saw Love coming from far away
so glad, I could just recognize.”

Big shoes to fill if you were also a 13th century poet with a crush on Beatrice. I wonder what her husband had to write to get her attention?

There are a lot of churches in Italy. Why should I go to this one?

Compared to other Florentine spots like the Duomo and the Basilica of Santa Croce, the Church of Dante might as well be a random house. If you come here looking for magnificent frescos and hoping to spot a Michelangelo masterpiece, you’ll be gravely disappointed. No, visitors come to this church strictly for ~love~. There’s a small basket beside Beatrice’s tomb where those who love love can write a note asking Beatrice to protect their love (or, ya know, encourage it to exist a little). It’s quiet, away from the hordes of people who normally fill every building that will let them in, because most people get distracted by Dante’s House Museum located next door. Go with your sister, your mom, your best friend, your partner, by yourself, or all of the above- all of those combinations will leave you with a unique experience to reflect on love and happiness and soul mates and all that fun stuff. Linger for a minute if you can, and soak up being in the presence of the woman who got caught looking cute three times and earned herself a featured role in the most important poem of the Middle Ages.

When can I go?

Open from 8am-12:30pm and 5-7pm

Where can I find the Church of Dante?

The church’s real name is the Chiesa di Santa Margherita de’ Cherchi, and you can find it in the aptly-named Via Santa Margherita, 50122 Firenze FI

Bar Pitti

Posted on October 10, 2019November 8, 2019 by linder

So, what makes this place so special?

Bar Pitti has an aura about it. The kind where you feel a certain sense of warmth, and genuine happiness within the people who occupy the space. The restaurant is quaint and cozy, with a charming outdoor seating area. The menu is handwritten on paper menus in the finest penmanship that you can tell took hours upon hours of tedious work to accomplish. From the twinkle lights inside to the soft kind smiles of the staff who happened to be all family, Bar Pitti is a one-stop-shop for all of your Italian meals. Whether you’re having a long two and a half hour dinner catching up with a friend, or just need a quick bite to take home, this place is for you. Bar Pitti is family owned and operated, and they want you to feel at home from the minute you step foot into their restaurant to the minute you walk out. And boy, do they succeed.

Where can I find this hidden gem?

Bar Pitti is centered right in front of the Pitti Palace in the Piazza, just a short five to seven-minute walk from the Ponte Vecchio. The street is bustling with all different people, eager to learn about the history of Florence and smell the aromas of the food slow cooking around them, so be careful to not miss the sign. However, if you miss the sign you can spot it by the delighted faces sitting under the awning in front of the restaurant, experiencing the mouth-watering food that Bar Pitti has to offer. I came across this gem one evening while I was trying to find a good authentic gelato place near my apartment on the first or second night I spent in Florence. Instead of finding a gelato place that caught my eye, Bar Pitti was found, and I could not be happier.

What should I order?

Bar Pitti sports a wide array of options stemming from its true traditional Tuscan roots. Personally, my favorite is the Gnocchi Sorrentina. The gnocchi is softly tossed in a robust tomato sauce that wraps each one in a deep but diluted red. The clear steam is gushing upwards towards your face, carrying a rich aroma through your nose. However, the gnocchi is not the only thing that drew me in the first night that I was lucky enough to waltz into Bar Pitti by accident. The appetizers are exemplar. From the blazing red bruschetta to the chicken liver crostini, your taste buds will be taken to heights you did not think were reachable. I also recommend you have an Aperol spritz to go along with your dinner, it’s the best spritz in town.

You can also see a glimpse of the handwritten menus — The best spritz you can find in Florence

What makes Bar Pitti better than other dive restaurants?

Bar Pitti is above par in comparison to other dive restaurants because of its organic charm and authentic Italian food. It is not overly priced, so it is friendly on the wallet which is definitely a plus for us students. For those of you on the struggle bus ninety-nine percent of the time like me, you will appreciate. Most little hole in the wall restaurants that look like Bar Pitti is most likely tourist traps, that say their food is authentic, which it might be, but the prices are skyrocketed. You will never be turned away, no matter how busy. But most importantly, you will always be greeted with a smile and an enthusiastic “Buongiorno”!