Trattoria Ponte Vecchio - Ristorante Firenze — Restaurant in Florence

Unfortunately we had a negative experience with our meal. My family visited the restaurant for dinner and the host was very friendly and offered us complimentary prosecco while we waited for our table. We ordered appetizers, wine and meals for our family of four. I ordered the spicy whole Rabbit and roasted potatoes. The waiter said that the rabbit might be “too spicy and too much food for me,” and offered a different option, a fried version of the rabbit. I agreed to try his recommendation. The rabbit arrived with a few french fries and pieces of over cooked dry rabbit . My husband asked for a glass of scotch and he tried to push a cocktail of Campari which he didn’t want, saying he would like it more. I asked for a glass of Sangiovese. The waiter served a small half serving of house Chianti, being told that it was the Sangiovese I asked for. The manager brought a full glass of wine and did apologize. The meal was not as expected and I asked for a sauce, maybe a herb sauce or something to help with the dryness of the rabbit. The waiter said ” I do not have ketchup, or mayonnaise” he seemed very annoyed. I replied I am not interested in American condiments, but was wondering if he recommended something that would complement the dish. I feel that he was talking down to me and my family throughout our entire experience, and we were treated as if we didn’t know what “true italian” food is as Americans. We have had many wonderful meals in Florence and Rome in our weeks of traveling, and over the years I have eaten rabbit prepped in several different dishes in fine dining restaurants including Michelin Star. The host and manager were very kind and tried to help by providing a better meal which was okay. Overall the waiter treated us poorly and in our many days in Italy this was one of our worst experiences with the service and quality...

I will begin with a couple of positives. The restaurant is in an amazing location. Facing the Arno and directly next to the Ponte Vechio. It is truly a postcard place to dine. The restaurant itself is very nicely appointed. Ok, now for the rest.

Let me begin by saying I have been to Italy multiple times. This is not a review from a perspective of what I expect at home.

The owner is a rude person. He told my part the we must try the bruchetta, he makes his own oil, grows the tomatoes and so on. When my party declined, he told us that we didn't know how to eat. Took our order and walked away. This was the last time we saw him. One woman came by and dropped some slices store bread on the table. One of my party ordered a wildly over priced half bottle of Chianti. A 5 euro half liter of water. This should have all been indicators of the travesty that was to follow.

The meals came out intermittently from the kitchen. Now, keep in mind, there were only 2 parties in the restaurant at the time. So, the food arrives. Very al dente risotto (17 euro), passable truffle pasta (18 euro), port cutlet that was just ok (16 euro), ravioli (18 euro) and lasagna (10 euro).

The ravioli had a small spread of sauce and 4, yes 4, individual ravioli. Do the math, that is 4.5 euro per ravioli. No side dish, no nothing. Just 4 marginal ravioli. The lasagna was far and away the worst lasagna I have ever tasted. It had an acidic sauce, the meat was over cooked and the noodle was mushy. It was an abomination to Italian cooking. By messing up this dish, the owner embarrasses his country. For shame.

Finally, I do have one more positive from this meal. This was the first mel of our trip. So, we were certain that things would only get better (foodwise) from here. God help us if it...

ChatGPT said: During our recent visit to Florence, we had the pleasure of dining at an authentic Italian trattoria that left an unforgettable impression. From the moment we walked in, we were transported to a cozy, rustic corner of Italy, where the warmth of the atmosphere matched the deliciousness of the food.

The ambiance was charming and quintessentially Italian, with red and white checkered tablecloths that perfectly complemented the real candles flickering on each table. The soft glow of the candlelight, combined with the intimate setting, created an inviting, relaxed vibe that made us feel right at home.

As for the food, it was absolutely exceptional. The beef dishes, in particular, stood out as the highlight of the meal. Each cut of meat was perfectly cooked, tender, and bursting with flavor. The seasoning was spot on, allowing the natural richness of the beef to shine through. Whether it was a perfectly seared steak or a flavorful beef ragu, every bite was pure bliss.

The service was equally wonderful, with attentive staff who took the time to explain the dishes and offer recommendations. They were friendly and knowledgeable, making us feel like we were part of the trattoria’s family.

In every way, this trattoria in Florence offered an authentic Italian dining experience that we will cherish for years to come. Whether you're a fan of great food, exceptional service, or just looking for a warm, welcoming atmosphere, this place is an absolute must-visit. We can’t...