After an absence of almost two years due in large part to the COVID epidemic we are happy to finally be back in Florence. Took a good week to get over a PTSD induced jet lag brought on by the anxiety of preparing for an international flight during a global pandemic, however one look at this vista and one feels reborn.
What I’ve found most impressive upon arrival is the attention paid to safety and the following of COVID rules here. One can not enter a restaurant, concert hall, museum and indoor/outdoor happenings like sporting events etc. without a green pass or similar proof of vaccine from your country, in my case the Center of Disease Control (CDC) card from the USA. Masks in all shops including supermarkets, in churches, and on public transport.
Now that all of that has been established it is time to enjoy Autumn in Florence.
First things first, RESTAURANTS….
Just before leaving Florence during our last trip we were able to have dinner at Nugolo. It was open about a week and already there had been lots of buzz about this farm to table new eatery. As I followed its progress on Instagram during our exile I knew that it would be a first stop upon our return. The seasonal menu offers an original take of Italian favorites as well as new modern Mediterranean dishes. For example, Tortelli filled with ossobuco with a green sauce and candied lemon. Wonderful atmosphere as well.
Nugolo
Tortelli filled with ossobuco
Le Lune, I am happy to report, is thriving as it is in the middle of a nursery where you will be seated at a table surrounded by shrubs and beautiful plants giving you privacy and space. New chef and new choices make for a great menu.
Le Lune
Arà has opened a spot to sample their Sicilian “street food” on a lovely outdoor patio. They have been doing a great take out business as well during the pandemic. It is next to Pescepane where great fish dishes can be found. Both are located in the Sant’ Ambrogio neighborhood which has become the #1 foodie “quartiere” of Florence.
Ara
Speaking of Sant’Ambrogio, right next door, actually attached to the church’s cloister, is a new Caffe called Ditta Artigianale. The space is fantastic, with the church’s architecture taking center stage. They offer brunch between 9:00 am and 3:00 pm and a full cocktail bar with cocktail dinner bites such as pulled pork sliders, summer rolls and tacos later in the day. Yup, brunch is also American style with pancakes, and bagels and avocado toast. For those of you that are students or just in Florence for a lengthy stay sometimes a taste of home (often better than home) can be a welcome change. Judging by the number of Florentines enjoying the Ditta Artigianale I’d say the owners got this one right; it is a huge success and the talk of the town!
Ditta Artigianale
Ditta Artigianale
Happenings…
Museums are open and showing new exhibits.
The Strozzi (Palazzo Strozzi) starting Oct.2 through January 30, 2022 will feature Jeff Koons. Shine. The exhibit will feature a new perspective on the history of contemporary art in the United States. A selection of more than 80 works by 55 artists including Andy Warhol, Louise Nevelson, Roy Lichtenstein, Mark Rothko and many more.
As Florence is celebrating the 700th anniversary of the death of Dante, he is the focus of many exhibits. The Ufizzi Gallery currently is showing “In the Name of Dante. The Casentino in the Divine Comedy” till Nov. 30, 2021.
The opera house of Florence, Teatro del Maggio Musicale Fiorentino, has a full schedule of concerts, opera and symphonies. I recently attended a performance of La Traviata which was one of the best performances I have ever seen. Noteworthy is the attention to detail and the precise organization of keeping the audience safe and socially distanced.
note the social distance spacing
Opera House of Florence
Teatro del Maggio
Moda:
Looks like the color green and color blocks dominate the fashion scene here in Florence. Lots of bright color after a somber lockdown. Lots of every shade of green. It is said that the color green can represent hope and renewal and ENDURANCE.
Lots to do and lots to see…Florence is waiting for you! So to those of you who are contemplating a trip back to Florence, rest assured, every measure has been taken to see that the spread of COVID is contained. So many of us have missed traveling, in particular to this city of wonders. We can travel smart by following the rules. A small price to pay to feeling alive again. Happy & safe travels. A presto!
fondlyfromflorence&beyond 
Ciao Diane, Absolutely loved The newsletter. I’m sure you’re ecstatic that you are “home“ and of course have tons to write about. I hope we get to see you and meet your husband we arrive tomorrow the third and leave on the 11th for Venice. Abbracci Sandi
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Thank Sandi. Appreciate your feedback as a fellow lover of Florence.
Grazie Mille Diane. We feel like you brought us with you for a little while. We miss Firenze so. Our fingers are crossed for a visit next fall. Your suggestions have always been spot on and bring a lift. We are still pretty much stay at home. Enjoy your time.
Baci e Abbracci.
Penny
Thank you Penny. We miss you both and know exactly how you feel about Florence. It’s been an unprecedented global moment but I do believe we all our doing our best to navigate these new challenges. We will see you upon our return and share begin to plan your next trip here. Tanti Abbracci 🤗
Subject: ” I cappelli di paglia di Firenze” – perusing here and there I was attracted by curiosity about “FONDLYFROMFLORENCE&BEYOND” – your name and cognome rang me the bell …. come di vecchia conoscenza. Does AILO mean somethong to you ?!
Many thanks for your kind attention. I’ll be looking forward to hearing from you.
Kind regards
Luciana — lucianafava3@gmail.com
Yes, Luciana I do think I remember. I will send you a personal email. Small world!