Picture yourself at the end of an unforgettable day exploring Florence. You've crossed the Ponte Vecchio and wandered the streets of the illuminated city center under the warm glow of the sunset, your heart and soul brimming with wonder after admiring the magnificent works of art envied by the world over.
And what better way to conclude this journey of art and history than by indulging in the delicious gastronomic masterpieces of Ventuno Bistrot?
Established in 2019 by the ingenuity of Simone Gori, Ventuno Bistrot has become a true symbol of Florentine culinary success. Gori, with his 360-degree vision, has managed every aspect of the establishment, from orchestrating the kitchen, to overseeing the dining area and service, down to curating the wine and spirits list.
Over the years, it has evolved into a resounding success, characterized by warm hospitality, culinary creativity, constant innovation, and a unique philosophy that breaks down barriers and labels, allowing each team member to grow freely and express their talent.
Simone eagerly shares with us an intriguing anecdote related to the venue's name. He explains that, as often happens, the street number influenced the choice, but what was initially just a number evolved into a playful game: the number 21 was adopted for the number of covers and to change the menu every 21st of the month, turning a detail into a fun ritual. Over the years, with the restaurant's growth, these characteristics have gradually been set aside, but the number twenty-one has remained a fundamental element of its history, a witness to its original creative spirit.
In the kitchen, the same atmosphere of creativity is palpable, where innovation, attention to detail, and the pursuit of quality are at the heart of every preparation. Tasting menus and dishes follow the rhythm of the seasons, embracing a unique philosophy: the ingredient leads the creation of the dish, not the other way around.
We're eager to begin our culinary experience, which kicks off with the Soft Egg, Pumpkin, and Cave Cheese: this combination creates a comforting dish, where the delicacy of the egg merges with the softness of the pumpkin and the intensity of the cheese, for a balanced flavor in every bite.
The first courses commence with tortelli stuffed with creamy robiola cheese, caressed by the spiciness of 'nduja and accompanied by the freshness of turnip tops. The softness and sweetness of the robiola contrast with the bold spiciness of the 'nduja, while the turnip tops add a crispy and earthy accent.
We then move on to a risotto with fresh nettles, aromatic with added raspberries for a fruity sweetness. The dish is crowned with Blu Mugello cheese, which lends complexity and creaminess to the plate in an unusual yet harmonious combination.
The second courses are equally enticing; we start with the pork cheek, slowly cooked, soft, and succulent, accompanied by caramelized shallots, which enrich the dish with sweetness. Fresh Swiss chard adds a play of textures, while slightly spicy turnip complements the ensemble with its crunchiness.
We conclude with a robust and enveloping dish: Veal Marrow, rich and velvety in flavor, with a side of potatoes and delicately sautéed cardoncelli and champignon mushrooms that captivate us with their intensity and succulent consistency.
As in any harmony, the dish finds its perfect companion in wine. At Ventuno, the wine list is carefully curated, offering a wide selection of Italian and international labels, with a particular focus on growing local wineries. Chef Simone reveals that behind the wine selections at Ventuno, there are no formal procedures or sommeliers in the dining room, but rather a passionate search for the perfect bottle by personally tasting each wine.
This same philosophy is applied to the choice of water, and San Benedetto Millennium Water Antica Fonte della Salute, originating from a millennia-old aquifer containing only 0.0001% nitrates, becomes part of Ventuno Bistrot to accompany all dishes with its lightness and enrich the table with its refined elegance in glass.
Our experience at Ventuno Bistrot has allowed us to rediscover the very essence of Italian cuisine: a combination of quality, creativity, and passion in every detail. Through surprising dishes and carefully curated wine selections, Ventuno transforms every meal into a memorable moment. With its commitment to excellence and dedication to seasonality, it delights and surprises palates in Florence and beyond, earning its well-deserved place in the Michelin Guide in 2023.
Ventuno Bistrot, Florence (FI)
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