Florence's culinary gem!

Stunning interiors at La Menagere, Florence, Italy

food, cocktails, flowers, gifts, books & lounge

I visited La Menagere in Florence, Italy, during my recent friend’s trip to Italy, and of course, one of my favorites places in Italy, Florence was on our itinerary! I had wanted to visit this one-of-a-kind place for a while, and since we were a fairly large group of 7, I made sure to make reservations prior to arrival. The space offers a truly unique and vibrant experience that seamlessly blends a variety of concepts into one dynamic space.

It is a restaurant, a bistro, the perfect place for a tea, a drink, a business breakfast, a romantic dinner, and so much more.

It is a garden, an emporium of beautiful things, and a library with more than a thousand botanical-themed titles. It is a labyrinth of secret spaces, secluded corners, and private rooms where you can experience secluded moments or grand festivities. All of this in the heart of the historic city center of Florence!

As you approach the venue, the eye-catching display of flowers on the exterior draws you in, hinting at the charm and character waiting inside. The space is beautifully designed - think Anthropologie meets Magnolia Home, by Joanna Gaines! Deep colored hardwoods, coupled with elaborate floral displays, moody candles, soft live piano and a really vibrant atmosphere.

Upon stepping through the doors of La Menagere, you're immediately enveloped in a sense of warmth and creativity.

The interior design effortlessly combines elements of rustic charm with modern sophistication, creating a space that feels both cozy and chic. Everywhere you look, there's something intriguing to catch your eye, from the meticulously arranged floral arrangements to the eclectic mix of furnishings and decor.

The history of the building, once Florence's first kitchen supply store known as "La Menagere," adds a layer of nostalgia and authenticity to the experience. While the space has evolved over the years, it still retains a sense of its past, paying homage to its culinary roots while embracing new and innovative concepts. As I explored further, I discovered the shop and florist, which offer a treasure trove of unique finds. From stylish kitchenware and home decor items to stunning floral arrangements, there was a lovely curation of items for purchase.

the restaurant

When it comes to cocktails & dining, La Menagere did not dissapoint with its flavorful offerings. My friends and I were seated at a stunning table that truly enhanced our dining experience. For Italian standards, the space is quite large but the restaurant in Italy feels intimate and cozy rather than crowded, allowing for a personalized and inviting atmosphere.

We started with ordering aperitivos, which were served to us in these beautiful leather pouches and garnished EXQUISITELY.

I ordered an Aperol Spritz and it was made to perfection! One of the standout features of the cocktail menu at La Menagere is its attention to detail and quality ingredients. From premium spirits and house-made syrups to fresh fruits and herbs, every element is carefully selected to ensure a perfect balance of flavors and textures.

For those with a sweet tooth, the cocktail menu offers selection of fruity and dessert-inspired drinks. Indulge in creations like the Passioni Piccanti, featuring rum, house-made passionfruit syrup, fresh lemon juice, egg white, and ginger beer, garnished with a fresh passion fruit and sugar on the rim. If you prefer something with a bit of a kick, the menu also has a variety of bold and flavorful options. Try the Dal Mediterraneo ai Tropici, a rum-based cocktail infused with house-made melon/basil syrup, fresh lime juice, cedrata (a soft drink made from cedar fruit), cucumber, and dill.

Overall, the cocktail menu at La Menagere is a testament to the creativity and craftsmanship of the bartenders, offering a diverse selection of drinks that are as delicious as they are visually stunning.

We started with ordering a mix of starters to share and they were all quite memorable! With a focus on fresh, seasonal ingredients and innovative flavor combinations, the appetizer menu gives you a lot of great choices.

One appetizer that stands out is the Antipasti Misti, an assortment of cured meats, artisanal cheeses, and marinated vegetables.

Perfect for sharing or enjoying on your own, this traditional Italian starter showcases the rich flavors and textures of the region, with each bite offering a taste of Tuscany's culinary heritage.

For those craving something lighter, the Insalata di Stagione is a refreshing choice. This seasonal salad features a medley of fresh greens, heirloom tomatoes, and crisp vegetables, tossed in a house-made vinaigrette and garnished with herbs and edible flowers. It's a vibrant and colorful dish that celebrates the bounty of the season and provides a delightful contrast of flavors and textures.

If you're in the mood for something more indulgent, consider trying the Crostini al Tartufo, a decadent treat that combines thinly sliced baguette with creamy burrata cheese and shaved black truffles.

Another standout appetizer is the Carpaccio di Manzo, a classic Italian dish made with thinly sliced raw beef, drizzled with olive oil, lemon juice, and capers, and garnished with Parmesan cheese and arugula. It's a simple yet elegant dish that highlights the quality of the ingredients and allows the natural flavors to shine.

For the main course, there is a variety of pasta, seafood, meat, and vegetarian dishes that highlight the season and local availability. Handmade pastas like tagliatelle al ragù, gnocchi with gorgonzola and walnuts, or risotto with saffron and porcini mushrooms are great for pasta lovers, while seafood options like grilled sea bass with fennel and orange or seared scallops with pea puree and pancetta offer a taste of the sea.

Meat lovers will appreciate hearty dishes like bistecca alla Fiorentina, a classic Tuscan T-bone steak served with roasted potatoes and seasonal vegetables, or ossobuco with saffron risotto and gremolata. Vegetarian options abound as well, with dishes like eggplant parmigiana, wild mushroom risotto, or roasted vegetable lasagna providing delicious alternatives for non-meat eaters.

After dinner we headed beneath the main restaurant, to discover the hidden gem of La Menagere: a secluded space inspired by the cabarets of Berlin and the decadence of 1930s Shanghai.

Here, live music sets the mood as you indulge in exclusive signature cocktails crafted by bartender Luca Cinalli. Ideal for intimate gatherings or customized events, the club offers a unique ambiance complete with a billiard room and a cozy smoking lounge where you can enjoy premium cigars and a carefully curated wine selection. Tucked away in a secluded corner, the cellar is a true treasure trove boasting a diverse array of exceptional labels.

In conclusion, La Menagere is more than just a restaurant or bar—it's a destination in itself, offering a multifaceted experience that's sure to leave a lasting impression. Whether you're seeking a casual spot to enjoy drinks with friends, a cozy cafe to linger over a meal, or a stylish boutique to browse for treasures, La Menagere has something special to offer. Until next time…Ciao!