Cibrèo Ristorante

Cibreo, founded in 1979 by the late Fabio Picchi, is a genuine Florentine institution, but not your average one. First of all, it is both forward-thinking and deeply rooted in tradition, but this doesn't mean the same thing as many people's impression of a "traditional Italian restaurant." It is refined, rather than rustic (eg sformato di patate e ricotta or timballo di tortellini). Secondly, even though there are always tourists, it is dearly loved by the local art, intellectual, and foodie scene and has its own special atmosphere. Thirdly, Cibreo is actually a family of places. The main ristorante is the most sophisticated one. Trattoria is probably the closest to your traditional Italian, and the café is something in-between, almost like a Florence-New Yorkish wine bar with great food, open from 9 am to midnight. Cibleo, a small Tuscan-Oriental (!) place, was Fabio's love letter to both Florence and Kyoto, being the latest addition to this eccentric family. All places are next to each other and would deserve their own recommendation. Needless to say, this being Florence, the wine lists will not disappoint in any of the places. Everyone has their own favorite, but if you are a foodie, no visit to Florence is complete without visiting at least one member of the Cibreo family.