Visited twice in three days—life's perfect pasta and steak.

Ristorante Hostaria Il Desco is nestled in a less touristy alley near Florence's iconic Ponte Vecchio. Established in 1954, it's a classic Tuscany restaurant with a menu that still features innovative dishes. They even offer a gluten-free menu! The wine selection is extensive, and it's clear that locals are regulars here, as I saw several tables picking their bottles from the impressive wine wall. The interior design is modern and upscale, perfect for a fine dining experience. It's ideal for a date, and what's more, it's not trendy or overly marketed like many other restaurants around the bridge. You can walk in without a reservation or a wait, and the restaurant is filled with many local Italian regulars. This was definitely one of the hidden gems I discovered during my trip. 🥩 Signature Parsley Steak This is the first dish in their Grill section, not in the mains. They use fillet, which is lighter than the traditional T-bone. The medium-rare steak is perfectly cooked, with a pink, tender center. The innovation lies in the seasoning: a mix of lots of parsley, garlic oil, and a hint of anchovy. The parsley adds a fresh, crunchy texture, while the anchovy brings a subtle seafood flavor. This dish has a unique seasoning that you won't find in other Tuscan restaurants. 🍝 Sweet Shrimp Burrata and Pistachio Pesto Pasta This is the most complex and flavorful pasta I've ever had. The spaghetti is perfectly al dente. The pistachio pesto is rich with nutty aroma, with whole and crushed pistachios that cling perfectly to the pasta, leaving no sauce at the bottom of the bowl. The burrata adds a creamy, milky freshness that complements the pesto without being overwhelming. The sweet shrimp sashimi is fresh and perfectly cut into small pieces that blend seamlessly with the pasta. There's also a small bowl of pecorino cheese shavings on the side, adding a salty, aged cheese flavor and texture. This pasta is a must-try. ☕️ Tiramisu I haven't had a bad tiramisu in Italy, and this one is no exception. It's perfectly balanced with low sweetness, just the right ratio of ladyfingers to cheese, and a strong coffee flavor. Their coffee is also excellent and pairs well with the dessert. Additionally, there was a pink-haired waitress who was very friendly 。Florence is full of surprises, and I feel that when traveling here, one doesn't need to over-plan. Even random choices tend to be good. I hope this place gets more popular. 📍 Ristorante Hostaria Il Desco Via delle Terme, 23/R, 50123 Firenze FI, Italy #ItalianCuisine #Pasta #FlorenceTravel #FlorenceFood