City Guide – Ursula D.

A Day in Boston, Massachusetts with Me- It’s a Date!

December 17, 2020December 17, 2020Food, Lifestyle, Travel1 Comment

My favorite spots in Boston to eat, drink, and enjoy ☁️

It is hard to imagine that my first time visiting Boston was only six years ago, considering how much I regard the city as a second home. I have spent a considerable amount of time in Boston during my four years of college and many memories have been made sitting with friends in a cafe, seeing a late night movie, or walking through the Boston Commons on a Spring day. I finally sat down to think about my favorite places in the city and it was so hard to pick just a few for each category. When it comes to fun things to do and great places to eat, Boston definitely has a surplus. I was able to narrow it down by consulting a trusted Boston expert to come up with this list. If you are ever in the area, I highly recommend checking out at least one of these spots… or all of them… just sayin’.

Favorite place for breakfast

Tatte

Photo taken from Tatte’s Instagram

If you are ever hungry- or not hungry but you just need something to keep your teeth company- this is the place for you. Not a bad choice can be made at Tatte that is for sure! My favorites are the pistachio cherry tart, any of their iced drinks, anything with avocado or a poached egg on top, or basically…anything. You CAN’T go wrong here. Also, the quaint café vibes in here are not to be missed.

Favorite places for lunch

KAVA neo-taverna

Photo taken from Kava neo-taverna’s Instagram

When I first went to Kava neo-taverna I fell in love. Everything about this restaurant is so special, from the hand painted wall art and nautical, Greek decor to the incredible food and friendly staff. This restaurant is so adored by me and my family that one time, when in restaurant was so full, we sat outside despite it being winter. The zucchini chips, mousaka, keftedes, desserts are to die for. But, you really can’t go wrong with anything on the menu, so I just order one of everything. (You think I’m joking)

Pho Pasteur

Located in Chinatown, Pho Pasteur is one classic Vietnamese restaurant that everyone must go to at least once. The food is super yummy and inexpensive, a perfect meal for when the Boston winds are forcing you indoors for a hot meal. Although the servers mean business, it’s a great, casual place to enjoy a meal before popping into one of Chinatown’s famous bubble tea places to top off.

Favorite places for dinner

Trattoria Il Panino

Photo taken from Trattoria Il Panino’s Instagram

Being Italian gives me full authority to say that Trattoria Il Panino should not be missed in Boston’s North End. The restaurant has some of the best lasagna I have ever tasted and, if your stomach is up for it, some indulgent carbonara. Whether you are looking for a romantic date spot or a place to host a large birthday party, Il Panino fits the bill. You won’t be sorry when you ask for the dessert menu too.

Barcelona Wine Bar

Photo taken from Barcelona Wine Bar’s Instagram

Barcelona Wine Bar is more than a restaurant, it’s an experience. The bar tenders and servers are some of the nicest I have ever encountered and are incredibly hospitable, willing to offer suggestions on their favorite wines on the list. If you end up going, you have to order a pitcher of their red or white sangria, which is a perfect share for two people. Some of my favorite menu items include the fried brussels sprouts with sherry and pickled onions, and patatas bravas, and hanger steak with truffle vinaigrette. Eating at Barcelona is like walking into a warm hug- you leave wanting another.

Empire

Photo taken from Empire’s Instagram

This Asian restaurant and lounge in Boston’s Seaport district is a go-to on a Friday night for sure. Empire has a wide selection of really delicious food in a luxurious atmosphere. Did I also mention they have great music? I had a surprise birthday party here and it was one of the best birthdays I can recall in recent times. The sushi is amazing and so is everything else on the menu.

Favorite place for coffee

George Howell Coffee

Photo taken from George Howell’s Instagram

There are so many things that make George Howell unique. First, their coffee is some of the best in the city, with every coffee type available to order. Did you say an iced red eye with almond milk? Yeah, they have that. Coffee sangria? They have that too. The coffee shop is also connected to the beautiful The Godfrey Hotel, where you can sit and enjoy your coffee if the café gets too packed. With a delicious selection of food also on their menu, is there any reason to leave?

Favorite tourist destination

Boston Commons & the Public park

If you are visiting Boston, you have to go to the Boston Commons and Public Park. Whether it be Winter, Spring, Summer, or Fall, the Boston Commons is the perfect place to take in the changing foliage and fresh air. Strolling through the park is also a great way to cut across the city, while still taking in some great sights. Grab a croissant and a coffee and park yourself on a bench- the park is yours!

Favorite day-time outings

Ice skating on the Frog Pong

Photo Courtesy of Boston Magazine

I don’t know if it is just me, but ice skating during the Fall and Winter months is just such a fun and exciting outdoor activity. It definitely get’s the adrenaline pumping for sure! Located inside of the Boston Commons, the ice skating on this rink is a great way to spend an afternoon without breaking the bank either.

Kayaking on the Charles

Photo Courtesy of Boston Magazine

Kayaking on the Charles River is another seasonal activity in Boston that has to be taken advantage of. The Charles River separates Boston and Cambridge, and kayaking along the river provides excellent views of both cities. This activity is a great one to participate in with friends, so rally the troops and hit the water!

Favorite night-time outing

Bars and Bowling

When it comes to nightlife in Boston, there are tons of things to do, from seeing a movie to Late Nites at the MFA and everything in between. Some of my favorite nights in Boston, however, have been bar hopping and bowling- two activities that are especially fun for a date night or night out on the town with friends.

Lucky Strike

Photo taken from their website

In terms of bowling spots, Lucky Strike is the place to go! Located in an iconic landmark building in Fenway, Lucky Strike has a full arcade, bowling lanes, a restaurant, and a bar. It’s a one stop shop for fun!

Earl’s, Citrus and Salt, Lolitas

Photo taken from their Earl’s website

There are so many fun bars in Boston to go to, so it was hard to narrow it down to just three. Earl’s , Citrus and Salt, and Lolitas are top of the list, however, because of their delicious menus, beautiful ambiance, and yummy drinks. Earl’s is especially one of my favorites because of its open-air rooftop! You can’t go wrong with any bar in Boston, but you especially cannot go wrong with stopping by these three!

Everyone can’t leave Boston without buying….

A ticket to a Red Sox, Celtics, or Bruins game.

If there is one thing that Boston can be prideful of it is their sports. I have been fortunate enough to attend a Red Sox, Celtics, and Bruins game and I have never been disappointed. The fans are proud and heartwarming, the stadiums are well taken care of, and the odds of a Boston team winning are definitely in your favor. If you are looking for a true Boston experience, attending a sports game is the way to go!

A Day in Kuwait City, Kuwait with Fay Al Bader

November 18, 2020November 19, 2020Food, Lifestyle, TravelLeave a Comment

Ever wonder what it is like to live in Kuwait City, Kuwait? Good thing I know someone who does- my bestie Fay!

In my first post of this series, my dear friend Divya, who is originally from New Dehli, India, but has grown up in Nigeria shared her favorite places to go and things to do in a day in Lagos. Next up is my bestie Fay Al Bader. Through hearing Fay talk about Kuwait since we met, it has always been top on my list for places to visit. Fay is my very first- and by no means last- Middle Eastern friend. In knowing Fay, I learned all about the Muslim faith, tasted Arabic coffee for the first time, and introduced more than one Arabic word into my vocabulary (habibi being a personal favorite). Fay’s enthusiasm for the Middle East even motivated me to participate in my college’s Dubai Elective Abroad program, where I traveled to The United Arab Emirates for ten days over Thanksgiving break. Without Fay, there are so many things that would be unknown to me, one of the many reasons that I cherish our relationship and am honored to call her one of my closest friends. Fay was kind enough to “virtually” show us around her home city, so without further ado, Fay take it away!

Kuwait… The Pearl of the Gulf… A land that I am honored to call my home. If anyone has been to Kuwait or met anyone from here, they will undoubtedly know how much love its people have for their country. It may be small to those looking at it from the outside, but to me it is my world and it will always be the most beautiful place in my eyes. One of the things I admire the most about Kuwait is that you still find a deep sense of culture and traditions embedded in many aspects of our daily lives and within many homes, which is something I believe is very rare to find in other parts of the world in our present day. Regardless of how far we progress and embrace change, you will always find Kuwaiti families that are determined to keep our culture alive and to stay loyal to our traditions, traditions that our late grandfathers and grandmothers have instilled in all of us.

I can go on and on about why I have such a deep love for Kuwait, from its unique culture, its phenomenal food to its hospitable people but I will leave it at that. I hope everyone gets the chance to visit my beautiful country and experience all that I have with your own eyes. I sure do love every bit of it, down to the last grain of its fine sand.

Favorite place for breakfast

Madison & Heig

Photos taken from Madison & Heig’s Instagram

They have a lovely selection of dishes, freshly baked pastries and drinks that always uphold to a high level of quality. Their staff and service are excellent. The place also has a great vibe and is decorated with such simple but beautiful elements. It also has floor to ceiling windows so it brings in so much sunlight (which I love to see especially in the morning) and you can see the waterfront because it is located on one of Kuwait’s main roads, the Arabiain Gulf Road, which overlooks the ocean.

Favorite places for lunch

Habra

Photo taken from Habra’s Instagram

The Peacock

Photo taken from the following website

Aside from the fact that both these places have delicious food, they also hold so many memories. I often go to both these restaurants with my family and we always order the same dishes, if not more food every time we go. One is more fancy than the other but they both have the friendless staff and maintain an exceptionally high level of quality. Both are also family friendly which I love.

Favorite places for dinner

White Robata

Photo taken from White Robata’s Instagram

Both these places have exquisite food that is prepared so well. I also like that you find a combination of young couples, families and group of friends at all times so it is nice to be around. In addition, they are not too loud which I really appreciate because I don’t like being in a place with music so loud that you have to constantly scream. Again the staff is extremely friendly and attentive to detail.

Ora

Photos taken from Ora’s Instagram

White Robata in particular is located in Jaber Al Ahmed Cultural Center (a.k.a JACC), which is one of the newer complexes that houses multiple restaurants and a beautiful Opera House which hosts many concerts throughout the year. Moreover, the restaurant has both indoor and outdoor seating areas and in the winter, I enjoy sitting outside because it overlooks the dancing fountain, which always plays many national and/or famous songs that everyone always enjoys. It is so heartwarming to watch families and friends gather around the fountain and enjoy the beautiful show, especially the young children who end up singing and dancing along.

Favorite place for coffee

Toby’s Estate

Photo taken from Toby’s Estate’s Instagram

I would say this is my favorite coffee place for multiple reasons. For starters, their selection of coffee and pastries are great. There are also multiple branches that are conveniently located around Kuwait so you can easily find one to stop by. Each branch is uniquely decorated and has so much open space. Again, you always find a mix of younger couples, families and friends, which isn’t the case with many of the other coffee shops. I particularly enjoy this because I feel more comfortable around this mix as opposed to just younger group of friends.

Favorite tourist destinations

Shaheed Park

Photo taken from Shaheed Park’s Instagram

It is dedicated to all the martyrs who lose their lives within the Iraqi Invasion (1990-1991). The park has multiple phases, one of which is still under construction, and includes a few restaurants, tracks for running & walking, an atrium-like stadium (which hosts multiple concerts) and last but not least, a wall that displays the names and pictures of all the martyrs.

Souk Al Mubarakiya (The Old Souk)

Photo taken from the Souk’s Instagram

This is probably the place that encompasses the greatest amount of Kuwaiti culture, which I found is the most beautiful part about it. You can find everything from traditional clothing, food, sweets, jewelery and so much more as you roam around this historical landmark. More importantly, this place embodies so much of Kuwait’s history of Kuwait and will definitely find a few stores that have been there since Al Mubarkiya was built, many passed multiple generations.

Favorite day-time outing

Either going to a mall or going out for coffee

Photo taken from Toby’s Estate’s Instagram

I like going to a mall for family lunch or to do some random shopping. I prefer going in the morning at times just to avoid heavy crowds but sometime I like being around a lot of people because it feels lively. I also like going out for coffee during the day with my family or friends because it is always very natural and chill and you get to sit down for a while and get to enjoy each other’s company after a long and tiring week.

Favorite night time outing

Movie

Photo from the Cinescape Kuwait Instagram

There is something about getting a warm bucket of popcorn and a side of nachos to share and enjoy with family and friends that is so comforting to me. It was also a tradition for my family and I to go out and enjoy a movie together every Friday night so I hope it is something we start doing again. Whether it a comedy or a thriller, I will always prefer going to a movie at night then getting dressed up for another dinner.

Everyone can’t leave Kuwait without buying….

bakhoor, a dara’a, and local sweets

Each and every one of these represents local culture and something special to Kuwait. You can find these items in essentially all other Gulf countries but they will also have distinct variations that are unique to every country.

Bakhoor – Essence

Dara’a – a local piece of clothing that is typically worn with Ramadan and family gatherings. They range from very casual, light designs to beautiful and lavish pieces that take your breath away with the amount of detail it holds.

Local sweets – first of all they are delicious and you never seem to have enough. Second of all, they contain local ingredients and are made from recipes that have been passed down from generations of families. (Of course every family makes it differently and has their own touch, which I love).

A Day in Lagos, Nigeria with Divya Ramchandani

October 27, 2020November 1, 2020Food, Lifestyle, TravelLeave a Comment

Ever wonder what it is like to live in Lagos, Nigeria? Good thing I know someone who does- my good friend Divya!

One of my favorite aspects of college was getting to know people from all over the world. I have spent hours picking my friend’s brains about anything and everything, from what local dishes are their favorite to what subjects they learned in primary school. Those I meet provide a window into new places and lifestyles that I might not know much about. These individuals have helped me understand that the world is so vast and that there is so much to learn, experience, and uncover. Despite this awareness being overwhelming to many, it excites me, as future possibilities seem so great. I hope to visit all of my friends in their native countries at some point, in the meantime I have recruited some of them to offer their insights on the places they love the most. First is my dear friend Divya, who is originally from New Dehli, India, but has grown up in Lagos, Nigeria. Divya has incredible insights on economics, international business, and vegan baking, but today I have enlisted her to share about her life in Lagos.

When Ursula asked me what it feels like to live in Lagos, it was hard to explain the emotion. I have lived here all my life and yet sometimes feels like I’m new here. There’s constant changes happening around the city, but the core and feel of being home in Lagos remains the same. The hustle and frustrations of the city comes in direct comparison with the amazing food and never ending adventures. No matter where I go, I always end up missing Lagos and all of its beaches, and it’ll always be home.

Favorite place for breakfast

Flowershop Cafe

Photo taken from the Flowershop Cafe’s Instagram

A relatively newer addition to Lagos’ every busy food scene. They have a good mix of international breakfast options along with some local delicacies, that is sure to satisfy everyone’s cravings. The fresh roses and plants spread across the store is an added plus that’s impossible to miss!

Favorite place for lunch

La Veranda

Photo taken from La Veranda’s Instagram

Hands down some of the best Italian food I’ve ever tasted in my life. Their gnocchi is a regular in my dreams and worth every carb. La Veranda has been around for about 10 years now and continues to have a loyal customer base with some of the best Italian food in Lagos.

Favorite place for dinner

Salma’s Lebanese Cuisine

Photos taken from Salma’s Instagram

Located by the water, Salma’s has some of the best mediterranean food in the city with a beautiful ambiance. Their falafels and kebabs were definitely something I craved the most when I was away from home. End your meal with an authentic coffee and rose ice cream that will keep you satisfied for days!

Favorite place for coffee

Jazzhole

Photos taken from Jazzhole’s Instagram

It’s a small cafe/book store/music record store that’s been around for years and you can pretty much find any book that you name here. The first time I was here, I spent over an hour walking around, taking the store in. For me, Jazzhole is the definition of calm amidst the chaos and the coffee and delicious cakes is just the cherry on top!

Favorite spot tourist hot spot

Lagos is known for its beaches, and you really could not go wrong with any of the beaches here. My favorite is a beach about 30 minutes away by boat that keeps you away from the hustle of the city with the fresh breeze and strong water currents that leave you wanting for more. Cool yourself down with some fresh coconut water and Atlantic ocean waves to complete the day.

Favorite day-time outing

The constant heat and humidity makes it impossible to be out under the sun for extended periods, but there are several cafes and bars that combine the best of both worlds and are always packed on the weekends during the day. One such place is Moist Beach Club that provides a wide variety of food, drinks, seating options and quick access to the beach. Easily one of the favorites of the millennial crowd in Lagos and for good reason, Moist is always bustling on the weekdays and their Sunday sundowners provide the best excuse for a break before starting the work week.

Favorite local shops

Lekki Arts and Craft Market

The home to a wide array of local paintings, sculptures, furniture and everything you can imagine in between showcasing the diversity of expression and cultures from all over Nigeria. It’s a must visit for anyone looking to indulge in local artifacts at a fraction of the price as compared to the mainstream city boutiques!

Favorite night time outing

Take from the W Bar Instagram

Lagos is home to several fun bars and lounges that make the most of the coastal city’s open and fresh breeze and are always packed starting Thursday evenings. W bar is a new favorite amongst the younger generation so be ready to wait for some time before you can get some space to sit or your drinks.

Everyone can’t leave Lagos with buying…

Photo by Karolina Grabowska on Pexels.com

Everyone can’t leave Lagos without buying some local artifacts, which could be as simple as some precious beaded necklaces or a local small sculpture. For food enthusiasts, suya powder is a must which is a peanut and chilli powder that could be used over pretty much any meat or vegetables and adds a yum spicy tang, it’s definitely something I’ve always taken with me when I was away!

London’s Hidden Gems

August 4, 2020August 19, 2020Lifestyle, TravelLeave a Comment

Unearthing 15 of London’s best kept local secrets.

The summer between my Freshman and Sophomore year of college I spent two months living in London, England, participating in Arcadia University’s London Summer Internship program. Over the course of those two months, I studied contemporary British politics as well as participated in an internship at a social media marketing start-up called The Apartment Global Limited. My time living in Highgate, along with the other program participants, served as an incredible opportunity for me to learn and grow as a young adult. For the first time, I was living in and exploring a foreign city on my own. Undeniably, at first, I felt uncomfortable doing things by myself. Yet, I knew it would be impossible to convince my friends to be dragged from museum to museum every day. I would have to push myself to become comfortable with being lonely.

Slowly, I learned that saying “table for one” provided an opportunity to fully immerse myself in an experience without other distractions. I soon discovered the joy of researching places that I found interesting and heading right out the door to experience them for myself. At night, I would sit down at my computer to look up interesting events, exhibitions, museums, shows, shops, and restaurants across London. The next day I would set out to conquer the city, absorbing as much as possible around every corner. My exposure to the world around me grew more and more every day, as I encountered new experiences and moments of learning.

Below, find some of my most unexpected favorites from living in one of the most beautiful cities in the world!

1. Victoria and Albert Museum Library

Website

Address: Cromwell Rd, Knightsbridge, London SW7 2RL, United Kingdom

When I first visited the Victoria and Albert Museum it was to see the newly featured Balenciaga exhibition. After I visited the exhibition, I began to tour around the museum a bit more, only to find out that there was a gorgeous public library on level 2 that overlooks the John Madejski Garden. If you are interested in working at the library, make sure to leave your bag in the cloakroom at the main entrance and to dispose of any food or drink.

2. The Wallace Collection

Website

Address: Hertford House, Manchester Square, London W1U 3BN, United Kingdom

The Wallace Collection was one of the last museums that I visited in London, however, it should have been one of the first. The museum houses stunning, colorful rooms filled with unique items that will keep you interested for hours. The Wallace Collection also has a restaurant in the museum’s pastel pink courtyard that features an expansive skylight.

3. The Royal Observatory and Greenwich Park

Website

Address: Blackheath Ave, Greenwich, London SE10 8XJ, United Kingdom

Eager to get out of the city center for a day? Take a trip to Greenwich and explore the beauty of Greenwich Park and The Royal Observatory, which is located on its grounds. The Royal Observatory is the home of Greenwich Mean Time (GMT), the Prime Meridian of the world, and London’s Planetarium. To make the day even better, take the ferry boat to get there and enjoy a scenic trip down the River Thames.

4. The Royal Opera House Tour

Website

Address: Bow St, Covent Garden, London WC2E 9DD, United Kingdom

I was not completely sure what I was getting myself into when I signed up for The Royal Opera House Tour. Little did I know I would be shown behind the scenes of what makes the Opera House produce some of the most incredible ballet and operas in the world. I got to peek into the ballet rehearsal rooms, costume archives, and even caught a glimpse of an onstage rehearsal while on my tour.

5. Granger and Co.

Website

My favorite location: 237-239 Pavilion Rd, Chelsea, London SW1X 0BP, United Kingdom

Granger and Co. is one restaurant that I frequented the most while in London- I visited every location across the city. The interiors of all of their restaurants are as beautiful, warm, and comforting as the dishes they serve. Order the ricotta hotcakes and you won’t be disappointed.

6. Hampstead Heath’s Bathing Ponds

Address: Parliament Hill Fields, Fields Hampstead Heath, Highgate Rd, London NW5 1QR, United Kingdom

Although Hampstead Heath is one of London’s top parks in terms of both views and popularity, many visitors hike to the top of the hill and neglect to go any further. I have found that some of the most beautiful areas of the park are located a short walk from Hampstead’s peak around its pond areas.

7. Senate House Library

Website

Address: Senate House University of London, Malet St, London WC1E 7HU, United Kingdom

The Senate House Library is the designated library for all Arcadia students in London and one I frequented often. Surprisingly, the building itself is a bit of an attraction because of its art deco architecture and feature in five films, including The Dark Night Rises and Batman Begins. It is definitely worth a quick visit if you’re in the area.

8. Chin Chin Laboratory

Website

Located in Camden Market

Address: 49-50 Camden Lock Pl, Camden Town, London NW1 8AF, United Kingdom

There are very few ice cream experiences that will compare to this one. Chin Chin features a selection of unique ice cream flavors, cookie sandwiches, and even hot chocolate in all of its shops. However, the most innovative aspect of Chin Chin is that they make all of their ice cream using liquid nitrogen. The result is an indulgent delight!

9. Bun House

Website

Address: 26-27 Lisle St, West End, London WC2H 7BA, United Kingdom

When I first walked into the Bun House, right in the center of London’s theatre district, I had no idea what to expect. I had never eaten Chinese buns before, yet they looked so delicious from the photos I viewed online. The woman behind the counter could not have been nicer in recommending buns and side dishes to try. All of the food was so tasty I returned every time I was in the area for my much-needed bun fix.

10. British Library

Website

Address: 96 Euston Rd, London NW1 2DB, United Kingdom

I would often visit the British Library to work on my assignments and papers for class, however, even as a tourist, I would recommend visiting. The library has an immense literary collection that is housed in a glass structure that serves as the library’s visual centerpiece.

11. Farm Girl Cafe

Website

Address: 59A Portobello Rd, Notting Hill, London W11 3DB, United Kingdom

Taking a stop at the Farm Girl Cafe is a must if you are in the area shopping on Portobello Road. The cafe sources organic, local ingredients for all of their fresh dishes, making the menu full of good selections. I recommend ordering a rose latte while you review your latest Portobello antique finds.

12. The Royal Academy of Arts

Website

Address: Burlington House, Piccadilly, Mayfair, London W1J 0BD, United Kingdom

The Royal Academy of Arts was one of the most interesting museums that I had a chance to visit during my time in London. Most of the art at the Academy is uniquely featured on large wall spaces in a collage format. The Academy is also the home of Britain’s oldest art school and is amongst the most prestigious in the world.

13. Rooftop Cinema Club

Website

Address: Queen of Hoxton, 1-5 Curtain Rd, Hackney, London EC2A 3JX, United Kingdom

If you are looking for something fun to do late-night, the Rooftop Cinema Club provides an outdoor cinematic experience with incredible views. The Club shows both classic flicks and new releases, so you can’t go wrong with picking a day to go.

14. High Tea at The National Gallery Rooftop

Website

Address: Trafalgar Square, Charing Cross, London WC2N 5DN, United Kingdom

There are many incredible high tea experiences in London, yet for the price, views, delicious selection, and experience, The National Gallery’s is hard to beat. Sip tea and munch on scones while enjoying a spectacular view of the city.

15. Ruby Violet Ice Cream

Website

Address: 118 Fortess Rd, Kentish Town, London NW5 2HL, United Kingdom

Just a few steps outside of the Tufnell Park tube station, Ruby Violet’s ice cream is not to be missed. Make sure to take a picture of your creamy treat in front of their signature, sparkly Ruby Violet sign!

Some of these locations have been temporarily closed due to the COVID-19 outbreak and will re-open in the future.

My Florence Recommendations

July 27, 2020October 1, 2020Food, Lifestyle, TravelLeave a Comment

My favorite restaurants, markets, and cooking classes in Florence, Italy.

After having spent one month in Florence, Italy studying cooking, I made sure to document all of my favorite places to eat, shop, and learn about food across the city. I hope this guide will be helpful to you on your next trip to this Italian culinary gem.

General Notes on Eating Out

Always make a reservation for dinner beforehand. Italians often take hours to eat, therefore tables can be hard to come by, especially on Friday, Saturday, and Sunday nights.
While I was in Florence, I utilized Trip Advisor for researching places to eat. For many restaurants, you can make a reservation right online at tripadvisor.com, which I found extremely helpful.
Restaurants usually open for dinner at 7:00 pm.
Unlike in the United States, you have to ask for the check when you are ready to leave or else the waiters will not bother your table.
A cover charge is often included, denoted as “coperto” on the check. If it is not, you can add a few Euros to the bill or up to 5% for service, but no more.

Best Breakfasts

Every small cafe is good in Italy to stop in for a coffee and croissant, but here are two memorable spots I recommend.

Caffe’ Pasticceria La Loggia Degli Albizi

Address: Borgo 37 50122, Borgo degli Albizi, 21, 50122 Firenze, Italy

Notes:

My favorite croissants in the city along with a wide variety of sweets
Delicious coffee
Outdoor seating (the sparrows make great company)

Ditta Artigianale

Address: Via dei Neri 33, 50122, Florence, Italy
Located near the Uffizi Gallery

Notes:

Not an Italian breakfast, (it serves croque madames and monsieurs) but it has a delicious breakfast and excellent coffee selection

Best Lunches

Gusta Panino

Address: Piazza Santa Spirito | Santa Spirito 1R, 50125, Florence, Italy
In the square in front of Santo Spiritu

Notes:

Excellent paninis to-go if you are on the other side of the Arno

Pugi

Address: Piazza San Marco 9/b, 10, 50121, Florence, Italy
Right around the corner from the Galleria Academia

Notes:

Great place to get a quick pizza or focaccia
You can sit in or take it to go
Pay after you order and finish your meal

Enoteca Bar Fuori Porta

Address: Via del Monte alle Croci 10r, Florence, Italy
A great place to go after visiting Michaelangelo’s Square

Notes:

Excellent crostini, cheese, salad, and wine options
Beautiful outdoor seating

Ara: E Sicilia

Address: Via Degli Alfani 127 R, 50121, Florence, Italy
Very small inside

Notes:

Tasty lunch right near the Duomo
Not a formal sit down
Serves yummy rice balls (which I highly recommend), stuffed breads, and sweets

Alimentari Uffizi

Address: Via Lambertesca 10r, 50100, Florence, Italy
Tucked away down a very narrow side street

Notes:

The owner is incredibly nice and all of the prosciutto comes from his son’s farm
Excellent paninis made with fresh breads, cheeses, and meats

Best Dinners

Pizzeria Santarpia

Address: Largo Pietro Annigoni, 9, 50122 Firenze, Italy
It’s hidden behind the Sant’ambrogio Market in a large square

Notes:

Best pizza and calzones in Florence
Relaxed, fun, and casual atmosphere

La Ménagère

Address: Via de’ Ginori, 8, 50123 Firenze, Italy

Notes:

Modern, unique, and delicious food
Beautiful interior
Serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner
Free Wifi

Konnubio Corso Tintori

Address: Via dei Conti 8r, 50123, Florence, Italy
There is another Konnubio in Florence, but this location is better

Notes:

Yummy and interesting dishes
Comfortable and beautiful atmosphere
Excellent service

Olio & Convivium

Address: Via di Santo Spirito, 4, 50125 Firenze, Italy

Notes:

I ordered one of the fixed menus and it was delicious
Italian food with a unique twist
It is also serves as a gourmet shop

Trattoria 4 Leoni

Address: 4 Leoni, Via de’ Vellutini, 1r, 50125 Firenze, Italy

Notes:

Tasty authentic Italian food (must order the pear ravioli, which they are famous for)
The menu is all in Italian, but do not hesitate to ask the waiter what everything means
Outdoor seating in a rustic square

Il Santo Bevitore

Address: Via di Santo Spirito, 66r, Florence, Italy

Notes:

Excellent elevated Italian food
Best restaurant dessert in Florence
Overall very delicious

La Cucina del Garga

Address: Via San Zanobi, 33r, 50129, Florence, Italy

Notes:

Beautiful restaurant that practically doubles as an art gallery
Amazing authentic cuisine that is packed with flavor

Il Borro Tuscan Bistro

Address: Lungarno Acciaiuoli 80r, Florence, Italy
The location overlooks the Arno

Notes:

Delicious Italian food with classic flavors
If you sit in the back of the restaurant you can watch the chefs at work

Best Sweets

Dolci e Dolcezze

Address: Piazza Beccaria 8/r, Florence, Italy
Easy to spot because it is bright green on the outside

Notes:

Excellent coffee, cream filled croissants, tarts, and cakes
Very pretty atmosphere to sit and have a mid afternoon pick me up

Gelateria La Carraia

Address: Piazza Nazario Sauro, 25, 50124, Florence, Italy
Two bridges over from the Ponte Vecchio on the other side of the Arno
Green on the outside

Notes:

Easily the best gelato in Florence
Wide variety of flavors and cones

Best Markets

Mercato Centrale

Address: Piazza del Mercato Centrale, 50123, Florence,Italy
The first floor hosts all different food stands and vendors, the second floor is an amazing open food market, and the third floor has two restaurants that can be reached through staircases from the second floor on either side of the market (they are hard to find, feel free ask someone who works there if you cannot locate them)

Sant’Ambrogio Market

Address: Sant’Ambrogio Market, Piazza Lorenzo Ghiberti, 50122 Firenze FI, Italy
Indoor food market boasting family owned, traditional vendors the sell everything from local honey to homemade pastas.

Best Cooking Classes

Giglio Cooking School
- Best school to learn the delicious basics of Italian cooking.
La Cucina del Garga-Cooking Classes (recently closed)
- Cooking classes took place in the restaurant’s actual operational kitchen. Really interesting experience to work in a real commercial kitchen and see what the chefs do during normal hours.
Great Tastes of Tuscany Cooking Class
- Classes take place in a Tuscan villa outside of Florence. Prepare yourself for a full day of delicious cooking (and eating!) in a beautiful setting.
Mama Florence Cooking School
- High tech kitchen and informative instructors. Best class for the beginners!
Cucina Lorenzo de’ Medici-Cooking School (Mercato Centrale)
- Every student gets to work on their own state of the art cooking station. Very fast paces, so bring someone along to help out!