Four Seasons Brunch- Florence

The most indulgent way to spend a Sunday morning in Florence, HAS to be the gorgeous brunch at The Four Seasons. The space underneath the massive sky light was breath taking and when set with the tinkling backdrop of live music of contemporary classics played acoustically…well… there really were not words and I found it…

Parione- Florence

Well, here’s the story of the good Marco. I dined alone as one does on a solo trip which seemed to confuse the wait staff thinking I was waiting someone even after confirming I was not, so by the time I ordered an hour later, I was a little ragey from hunger, but also from…

Picteau Bistro- Florence

After an incredible stay at Continentale Florence, fun apero hours at La Terrazza, and a delicious meal at Caffe dell’Oro, I was pretty obsessed with the Lungarno Collection and determined to explore as much of these properties as I could before departing. I for went the Michelin-starred for the Picteau Bistro after reading the description…

Degusteria Italiana- Florence

With only nine tables, you’d best book Degusteria Italiana early, which meant for me, a table for one for a fancy lady lunch. The service was impeccable and I really appreciated the window-view table that the hostess told me she’s selected for me so I could watch outside. While I was of course armed with…

Caffe dell’Oro- Florence

On night one, I didn’t venture too far, thanks to my 02:30 sleeplessness. Lucky for me, I’d thought ahead and booked Caffe dell’Oro at the sister property of my beloved Continentale, just next door. The set-up was so chic, with the Italian women at the neighboring table in an eclectic mix of playing card sized…

La Terrazza- Florence

If Continentale Florence wasn’t already the most perfect hotel, she also brought the gorgeous rooftop bar, La Terrazza, who absolutely isn’t here to play. (She was only here to play). Make sure to reserve in advance, either online with a card or just ring up the hotel directly. The spot is tiny and full, but…

Continentale- Florence

Wow, wow, wow, I have not been happy with a hotel in quite a long time- Continentale was absolutely next level on service, room, location, and roof top bar. I was meant to stay here a few years ago with my then partner, but he bailed on the trip and we never made it. Continentale…

Gucci Gardens

Gucci Gardens was a major player of my Florentine weekend which is saying a lot as I really wasn’t expecting much. I’m all for a lifestyle store/bistro/bar concept, so I knew I would have to check it out, but really I was expecting to be underwhelmed- wow was I wrong! The outside space was lovely,…

Trattoria Toscanini- Lake Maggiore

Easter 2023 was spend island hopping the Borromean Islands of Lake Maggiore. I see them often from the train and am always intrigued, so here we are. You’d think I’d have arranged a holiday lunch in a tiny town, but I was determined to wing it. Based on gorgeous location, adorable lounge area, fellow apertivos,…

Ristorante La Stresa- Stresa

Ristorante La Stresa has a whole mess of killer reviews and for good reason- the service, food, and price all made for a nice evening. Two women worked the entire restaurant, not annoyed that I was dining solo and gave me choice of table which is always thoughtful for we solo diners. As usual in…