Parione is a restaurant that really stands out amongst the crowded restaurant scene of Florence. The restaurant is larger than most restaurants, with a surprisingly large dining area that is taller than it is wide! (and which is decorated with some of the most beautiful pieces of art we'd seen in all of Florence outside of the museums!) The seating is spacious enough that we never felt cramped, and the ambiance of the restaurant really elevated the experience.
Pretty though a restaurant may be, that doesn't mean much if the food isn't very good. Fortunately, the food at Parione was perfect! Whether it be the Prosciutto and Melon we had as our Antipasti, or the pasta we ate for our main meal, the foot at Parione stood out from the crowd. The Black Truffle Gnocchi was fantastic (the truffle made this dish practically sing), and the Pici All'aglione Con Scaglie Di Pecorino (a local Tuscan dish) was pleasant change of pace from nearly every other pasta dish we had in Italy.
We capped off our night with the Chocolate Lava Cake and the Crème Brulee, which were both fantastic (keeping in line with the quality of the dinner itself). The cake was beautifully decorated and flavorful, and the Crème Brulee had a picture perfect brulee.
Overall, Parione is definitely a must visit restaurant in Florence and an absolute highlight of our trip. I highly recommend seeking it out if you get the chance to visit this historic town.
Although I've given Parione a fairly glowing review so far, we did have one small issue we ran into during our dinner (which was ultimately the reason we dropped our rating from a 5 to a 4) and that was with the service. Our server was generally pretty dismissive of us, nearly forgetting some of our drinks (my wife likes to order both a glass of wine and coca cola with dinner) and being a little dismissive/condescending whenever he checked up on us. We understand that there is a different culture in Italy (and by this point we were very used to how dinners worked in Italy! You're not going to get the same type of service that you get in the U.S. and that's completely understandable! When in Florence, do as the locals do!), but our server seemed to truly not hold us in a high regard. That was solidified for me when I saw how he interacted with the couple who sat next to us - they were generally louder and more rude, but our server treated them much nicer than he treated us! We would have probably left it at that, but when we were getting ready to leave our server told us that we should give him a tip on top of the 12.00 Euro service surcharge on our bill. We'd been in Italy long enough to know that tipping is not expected in most cases unless you have either: A.) exceptional service or B.) there is no service charge and you know they likely do need tips. I didn't hear him say that to any other guests, and I suspect that he said that to us because we're Americans and he thought he could trick us into giving him a little extra money (there is a strong tipping culture in the U.S.)
What was insulting to me, though, is that I likely would have tipped him if he actually did a good enough job to justify me giving him a tip! If you come to me and demand a tip because I'm an American, I expect American level service. And that is not the level of service I received from our server.
Going past that, though, it is clear that Parione is a beautiful restaurant with beautiful food. The service was not bad enough to ruin our night and the food was good enough that I ultimately didn't mind! Definitely swing by Parione if you're...
Read moreA Culinary Gem with Unforgettable Hospitality!
Parione in Florence, Italy, is an absolute culinary gem that left an indelible mark on our hearts and taste buds. I simply cannot praise this restaurant enough for its exceptional staff, warm hospitality, and exquisite food. Our experience at Parione was nothing short of extraordinary.
From the moment we stepped foot into Parione, we were greeted with genuine warmth and friendliness by the staff members, Gianni and Ardit. Their contagious smiles and attentive service made us feel like cherished guests. Their knowledge and passion for the cuisine were evident as they guided us through the menu and shared their personal recommendations.
The owner, Marco, is the epitome of hospitality. He went above and beyond to ensure that every customer felt welcomed and appreciated. His personal touch and genuine care for his guests were remarkable. Marco's commitment to creating a family-like atmosphere is reflected in the way he remembers names and faces, making each return visit feel like coming home.
Now, let's talk about the food at Parione – an experience that will make your taste buds dance with delight. The gnocchi and the Macheroncetti were nothing short of extraordinary, showcasing the skill and artistry of the culinary team. The veal ossobuco, a standout on the menu, was a true revelation. Each dish was thoughtfully prepared, bursting with flavors that lingered on our palates long after the last bite.
And let's not forget the cheesecake – an absolute showstopper. The creamy, decadent delight had us swooning with each forkful. It was a perfect finale to our exceptional dining experience at Parione.
What sets Parione apart is not just the incredible food but also the way they make every customer feel like part of their extended family. We couldn't stop thinking or talking about this restaurant long after our visit. In fact, we loved it so much that we returned for a second time before leaving Florence. We stayed well after closing time, engaging in lively conversations with the entire staff and getting to know them personally.
Our dining experiences at Parione were the highlight of our two-week trip in Italy. It's a place where the love for food, warm hospitality, and unforgettable memories intersect. Do not miss the opportunity to experience the magic of Parione...
Read moreNestled in the heart of Florence, Parione is an unforgettable dining experience for lovers of Italian cuisine, especially those who crave the authentic taste of Bistecca alla Fiorentina. From the moment you walk in, you are greeted with the warm, rustic charm that feels quintessentially Tuscan. The atmosphere is intimate yet lively, perfect for a romantic dinner or a relaxed gathering with friends. We arrived as a table of 8, they were very accommodating.
The star of the menu is undoubtedly the Bistecca alla Fiorentina. Cooked to perfection, this thick, juicy cut of steak is the epitome of Florentine tradition. The quality of the meat is outstanding, tender and flavorful with just the right amount of seasoning to let the natural flavors shine. It’s cooked with expert precision, seared on the outside and beautifully rare on the inside, just as it should be. Each bite melts in your mouth, leaving you savoring every moment of this culinary masterpiece.
Parione also boasts a fantastic selection of wines, carefully curated to complement their menu. Whether you’re a connoisseur or simply enjoy a good glass of red, the knowledgeable staff is more than happy to recommend a bottle that will elevate your dining experience. The pairing of a bold Tuscan red with the Bistecca alla Fiorentina is nothing short of divine.
The service at Parione is top-notch. The staff is attentive, friendly, and eager to ensure that your dining experience is exceptional from start to finish. They strike the perfect balance of professionalism and warmth, making you feel like a cherished guest.
Overall, Parione is a must-visit for anyone in Florence seeking authentic Tuscan flavors. The Bistecca alla Fiorentina alone is worth the trip, and the wine selection only enhances the experience. Combine that with the cozy atmosphere and impeccable service, and you have a dining experience that is truly...
Read more