Ala Grande Cafe has undoubtedly etched itself as a five-star gem on the culinary map, and our recent dining experience left us utterly enchanted. From the moment we stepped into the warm and inviting ambiance, it was evident that Ala Grande is more than just a restaurant; it's a haven for culinary excellence and unparalleled hospitality. The star of the show at Ala Grande is undeniably Chef Mauro. His culinary prowess transforms each dish into a work of art, such as stuffed crème and Hazelnut croissants a symphony of flavors that dance on the palate. The menu is a testament to Chef Mauro's dedication to innovation and his commitment to sourcing the finest, freshest ingredients. Every bite tells a story of passion and expertise, leaving a lasting impression that lingers on the taste buds. Adding to the enchantment is Nicole, who orchestrates the front-of-house with grace and charm. Her warm welcome and attentive service set the stage for a memorable dining experience. Nicole's knowledge of the menu is impressive, and her recommendations were nothing short of culinary genius. Her genuine passion for ensuring guests feel not just attended to, but genuinely cared for, elevates Ala Grande's hospitality to extraordinary heights. The ambiance at Ala Grande is a perfect balance of sophistication and comfort. The stylish decor and cozy atmosphere create a welcoming space that is ideal for any occasion, whether an intimate dinner for two or a celebratory gathering with friends. In summary, Ala Grande Cafe has set the bar high for culinary excellence and hospitality. Chef Mauro's culinary creations are a symphony for the senses, and Nicole's exceptional service ensures that each guest feels like a cherished patron. Together, they create a dining experience that transcends expectations and earns Ala Grande a well-deserved five-star rating. Dining at Ala Grande is not just a meal; it's a journey through exceptional flavors and unparalleled...
Read moreDuring our visit to Florence, my partner and I stumbled upon Ala Grande Caffè, and we couldn't have been happier with the experience. This hidden gem left us amazed by its authentic, handmade delights and impeccable service.
First and foremost, the food at Ala Grande Caffè was beyond exceptional. Every dish, including the pasta, was meticulously made by hand right in the shop. The simplicity of the pasta amazed us, and its taste was nothing short of heavenly. The Cannolis with Pistachio 🤤, Croissants, and The New York Bagel were equally outstanding - bursting with flavours that only come from skilled craftsmanship.
Not only does Ala Grande Caffè excel in its culinary creations, but the dedication of the staff is equally commendable. They wake up super early each day to prepare all the pastries, and their hard work shines through in every bite. The staff went above and beyond to make our visit memorable. They kindly invited us to try a Croissant, even though we didn't end up ordering it. Before closing time, we refrained from ordering coffee, as the coffee machine was being cleaned. However, the staff surprised us with a couple of espressos to complement our fantastic meal. Their hospitality and warmth were unparalleled and made us feel like cherished guests.
The overall ambiance of the café was cozy and welcoming, making us feel right at home. We appreciated the dedication and passion that resonated through every corner of the establishment. It was evident that Ala Grande Caffè takes immense pride in their craft, and that pride shines through in every aspect of the dining experience.
After spending a week in Florence and trying various establishments, Ala Grande Caffè stands out as one of the best breakfast-brunch experiences we had. We wholeheartedly recommend this cafe to anyone looking for a truly authentic and delightful culinary journey. Thank you, Ala Grande Caffè, for making our visit so memorable, and we can't...
Read moreI decided to have my morning coffee here based on the many good reviews I’d read. Unfortunately, it turned out to be a terrible decision. This place is a classic tourist trap, and I genuinely don’t understand the praise it receives.
From the moment I walked in, the atmosphere was chaotic — loud music, overstimulation, and no sense of calm for a morning visit. I ordered a coffee, and before I had even finished drinking it, the waiter handed me the receipt. I hadn’t asked for it, and it felt like a clear signal to leave — which I found intrusive and rude.
I expressed my discomfort to another staff member, possibly the owner, who then snatched the receipt away in frustration. The interaction felt tense and unpleasant, so I decided to pay and leave. When I wanted to pay, the owner refused to accept my payment. At first, I thought this was a kind gesture, but I now believe it was simply an attempt to prevent me from writing a bad review.
As I was leaving, the same waiter who had handed me the receipt said “guile guile” to me. At the time, I didn’t know what it meant, but after looking it up, I learned it’s an Italian phrase implying deceit and slyness. I found this incredibly offensive and disrespectful. All I wanted was to enjoy my morning coffee at a relaxed pace — not to be rushed out like an inconvenience.
For the record, I would have gladly paid those €5, even though the coffee was mediocre and the service poor.
It’s obvious that this place prioritizes profit over people. They aim to get tourists in and out as quickly as possible, and discourage honest reviews by offering small gestures to avoid criticism. Judging by the small number of negative reviews, I imagine I’m not the only one who has experienced this.
To the owner and the waiter: if anyone is being “guile guile” here, it’s you.
If you value respect and humanity in a café experience, I recommend supporting businesses that treat their customers with care —...
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