I had a student say to me that all they had been warned that all places downtown Florence are touristy and to stay away. It is not true, many trattoria’s, restaurants and wine bars are in the same place they have been for generations and happen to be visted by tourists as well as locals.
Recently a new restaurant opened on one of the most expensive shopping areas in town, via Tornabuoni.
In a prime tourist spot, on Via Tornabuoni, sits Obica’ Mozzarella Bar.
I have been several times to the Osteria Tornabuoni, inside the building, but never gone to Obika as it was always so crowded. It is located where my old bank used to be- and under the Palazzo Tornabuoni, a new property in Florence for time-share style apartments.
Today, finally warming up, it seemed the perfect moment to stop in.
We arrived before the lunch rush and sat inside. The acoustics were so bad with the music playing we moved outdoors into the courtyard under the umbrellas.
The menu is really nice and varied, featuring the cheeses from Southern Italy, a tasting place includes Mozzarella from Naples or Potino, closer to Rome as well as Burrata, smoked mozzarella and Ricotta.
Then there are side dishes to from sliced meats to vegetables or even the wonderful anchovies from Cetara. The ingredients have all been selected with care.
We enjoyed a plate of crostini with ‘nduja, the spicy pork fat spread from Calabria.
I had the Potina mozzarella with a huge side of Sicilian caponata.
The portion size of the caponata was HUGE and also wonderfully rich with the addition of toasted almonds as well as the traditional pinenuts.
Andrea had the wild smoked salmon crostoni.
There were three,as well as a chickpea paste to eat with the salmon.
The plates come garnished with small salads as well.
We loved out white wine, available by the glass, a Pinot Grigio by Felluga.
Total for lunch was under 50 euro- for such large portions and quality of ingredients a great price.
Obica
Via Tornabuoni, 16
8am -11pm