Now that we can drive around and move more freely, Andrea and I have been taking some daytrips. It’s great to visit some of our favorite spots, but also pure joy in discovering new places. Years ago, I created the Taste Chianti app to share my tips on where to eat, drink, shop and stay…
Divine Days- Livorno
There is nothing I love more than a food festival except perhaps being by the sea. When the two worlds collide, I am ecstatic! I saw that one of my favorite towns on the Tuscan Coast was having a 3 day celebration for the local specialty, Caccuccio, the fish soup. In San Francisco, we have…
Casa del Vino Enoteca
One of my favorite stops while down around the Central Market is Gianni Migliorini’s Casa del Vino an enoteca. It is one of the best wine shops and wine bars in Florence, old style. A simple counter, very few places to sit, a tiny table and great wine by the glass and wonderful sandwiches. As…
Simply Divina- Sicilian Swordfish
Swordfish is a beginner’s fish. One of the least fishy and more meaty fishes. There are some recipes which just grab you the first time you eat them and remain in your memory. This is one of them. When we go to Cantina Siciliana for our cooking class, Pino is more than generous to share…
Gianni’s Deviled Eggs- Casa del Vino
As is tradition in Italy, one never drinks without eating something. Casa del Vino is my favorite stop near my house for a glass of wine and a nibble. Not only my favorite place as you’ll see if you come around lunch time when it is packed with locals. As you enter, you will see…
Certaldo- JAM
I often take the train from Certaldo down to Florence to do my market tours. Recently I noticed that the local pastry shop had their windows covered up. They often redo the interior- so was thinking that they were closed for renovation. BUT NO! We have a new Pastry shop and Chocolatier in town!! I…
BYOB in Italy
BYOB usually means bring your own bottle ( full) to a party- but in Italy it has taken on new meaning. Bringing your own empty bottle to Vino Sfuso shops where they fill your empy bottles with wine from large demijohns or even large stainless steel vats, saving you money. No labels, no advertising, no…
Florence – Wine Bars- Casa del Vino
wines by the glass- price on bottle One of my regular places for a light lunch or snack is Gianni Migliorini’s Casa del Vino. Located behind the open air market onVia dell’Ariento. It is a place where, if you can get it,you eat and drink elbow to elbow with the locals and if you…