Osteria Il Giardino di Barbano — Restaurant in Florence

Came in the restaurant because we were hungry and it was raining. We were welcomed by a friendly, English speaking staff. The place is nice and cozy, and the vibe was relaxed. We started with some sparkling white wine. I don't usually drink wine but this was light and not sweet so we could also enjoy the meal. We started with fried dough served with prosciutto and cream cheese. It sounded strange and interesting so we tried it. The dough looks like simple balls of dough that are deep-fried and salted. The waiter suggested that we open the balls of dough, spread some cream cheese and place a slice of prosciutto to make ourselves a small sandwich. And he was right!!! Simple ingredients but the combination was WOW!! Next we had a tortellini with mortadela. Three tortellini stuffed with mortadela meat, on top of white sauce made from burrata cheese. The flavors were light but all working together for a perfect bite. A perfect dish!! We also had to a have a pizza (it's Italy). We ordered the "mezzaluna". It is different than a classic pizza. The dough is baked like any pizza but without anything on it. When it comes out of the oven and still hot, they put burrata cheese, uncooked ham, cherry tomatoes, and rocket. They fold it over itself, to a shape of half a moon, hence the name of the dish, and let the heat from the dough work its magic on the ingredients. And it does!! The cheese melts and gives this dish a creamy element which is necessary, and the pizza dough is sublime!!! They know what they are doing. We also ordered two desserts. A classic "zuppa inglesa" and 'tiramisu con chianti". The zuppa inglesa was very chocolatey from very good quality of chocolate, and was not as heavy as I thought it would be. The tiramisu was made with different cookies than the classic lady fingers, so it had more crunch, and it could stand all the alcohol that was in the dish. Very boozy but excellent dish!! We also got two amazing espressos with the desserts and the manager offered me a shot of limoncello which was great. Lemony and not too sweet. We paid 62€ which I think it an excellent value for money. I definitely recommend and if I have the time, I...

As an Australian food critic with half a decade in the industry, I’ve had my fair share of exceptional meals, but Osteria Il Giardino di Barbano delivered an experience that truly blew me away.

The bistecca alla fiorentina was a masterpiece—perfectly charred on the outside, yet beautifully rare and tender within, boasting a deep, dry-aged richness that only the best cuts can achieve. Paired with a bottle of Chianti Classico, the bold tannins cut through the steak’s succulence, unlocking layers of flavor that lingered long after each bite.

Beyond the food, the vivacious ambience made the evening even more memorable. The restaurant was alive with the hum of lively conversation, the clinking of glasses, and the warmth of genuine hospitality. The energy of locals and travelers alike created an atmosphere that felt both intimate and electric, making it the kind of place where every meal turns into a celebration.

Plus an amaro on the house was an excellent way to round off the evening

For an authentic Tuscan dining experience that delivers on every level, this is an absolute must-visit...

I can't say enough about this establishment. I had to be certain of the experience so I tried it two nights in a row for dinner. The first night it was a recommendation from our lovely hotel receptionist. She was absolutely right about the food here! It's so good. Since the first night was a recommendation I decided to go back the next night for a planned dining experience and trust....it did not disappoint. The staff was so friendly and the owner was personally involved with attending to the customers as well. They have a brick oven for making pizzas hot and fresh. I wish I had known about this place upon arrival. I would've taken the opportunity to sample a dish daily. So I could provide more delicious details but just take my word for it and go!! Enjoy!!

This was the Italian food experience that I had been looking for. The desserts were just right not overly sweet at all. The Moscato wine was everything for me, it complemented the food well.

This will definitely be my first stop when I return. Thank you Osteria for making my last night...