Years ago, the Hapsburg Lorena princes decided to open a restaurant in Florence: La Giostra. The news of a noble family handling with dishes and napkins caused a sensation, but not for everyone. The family friends who were accustomed to gathering around the table of the prince at the castle of Barberino Val d’Elsa in Chiantishire, had often suggested the idea. The many restaurants that were supplied with olive oil, wine and other products of the estate had started fearing what would come ever since the prince began asking them (and obtaining) some recipes of their chefs.
Ristorante
La Giostra
- Address: Borgo Pinti, 12-r
- City: Firenze
- State/Region: Toscana
- Zip: 50121
- Phone: (+39) 055 241341
- Website: http://www.ristorantelagiostra.com/
- Price: $$$$
- Reservation: yes
- Restaurant Type: Ristorante
- Country: Italy
I wandered into this place over 15 years ago, when I was a poor student traveling in Europe. I arrived right at 7pm and the place was half empty, as Italians are accustomed to eating much later, owing to their afternoon pause. The hostess said they were booked, but I promised to eat only a main course quickly and leave and she agreed to seat me. In comparison to the dry panini and cans of tuna I had been living on all week, this was the most amazing thing I’d ever tasted. Despite my budget appearance, the hostess brought me a complimentary glass of prosecco and the chef came from the kitchen to present the appetizers with his customary explanation of each; “this one, the Pope eat everyday with half a papaya, live 80 years!” Of course, this is now 2 popes ago. I still remember those amazing appetizers, the presentation and what I chose for the single course I had negotiated with the hostess; the pear and ricotta tortellini. Amazing, and I’ve never had better to this day.
I have been back several times since then, with friends and proper reservations. I recommend this place to anyone going to Florence, who wants a unique and memorable experience that will surely make Florence one of your favorite European cities.