Trattoria Zibibbo

ZIBIBBOVia di Terzollina 3/rTel: 055 433 383 (reservations are necessary) Monday-Friday: 8am-11pmSaturday: 8am-12pm Sunday:10am-3pmTen minutes from the center of Florence, this fabulous trattoria is unmistakably Mediterranean in flavor. Its kitchen is personally overseen by one of Florence’s most talented chefs, owner Benedetta Vitali. She is the restaurant’s soul, for she approaches all aspects of her craft with respect and passion. Her fabulous cookbook is called Soffritto. A soffritto is a preparation of sautéed carrots, onion and celery–and is often called the ‘Trinity’–or the base of a variety of Italian dishes. Benedetta’s book contains much more than just recipes: it is infused with her wisdom and spirit. And, to further indulge one’s culinary senses, she offers cooking classes, either as a week-long endeavor, or for four consecutive Saturdays a month.Jane’s suggestions: sformato di cavolfiore e broccoli, arancini di riso, spaghetti con cozze e vongole, arista al forno con purè di mele, bavarese alla crema con salsa di cioccolato.