Vini e Vecchi Sapori — Restaurant in Florence

My twin and I went on a trip to Florence last week for a few days and our favorite part of the entire stay was Vini E Vecchi! My twin had been once before last year and had been speaking so highly of it many times since then. This restaurant definitely lived up to the expectations. The food, the waiters, the location, the wine, the vibes, every single thing about this place is so delightful. The location is so beautiful, on a lovely street right next to the stunning Piazza della Signora square. We went mid day for lunch and only had to wait about 10 minutes for our table so just walked around the beautiful square while we waited. They welcomed us with open arms as we walked to our table which was so cute right in the front of the restaurant. The waiter, Tomas, was AMAZING! Be sure to ask for him when you visit, he was so friendly and excited about everything the restaurant has to offer, he also gave us incredible recommendations and brought us all of his favorite delicious dishes which we LOVED. He also picked out an incredible white wine for us that paired perfectly with our food. He described every dish to us before we ate and made sure we were as happy as him for our entire meal. We started with the carpaccio which was the best I have ever had. We then had the duck pappardelle which was exquisite and so flavorful. Both of our favorite dishes were the Summer Squash pasta, in fact it was our favorite dish we had at any restaurant during our trip to Europe and also in our lives! It was the most incredible fresh pasta with flavors that made your taste buds dance. The best pasta we have ever had. We also tried the Fried Chicken and Zucchini Flowers which tasted so sweet and delicious, the flavors were so unique and we loved every bite. The food and wine were perfect as well as the very friendly memorable waiters and the charming environment, everything about it is amazing. The waiters were so kind and attentive it was so impressive. Also the vibe in the restaurant is truly magical. My twin and I have recommended this place to every person we spoke to in Florence as well as most of our friends and family back home in hopes they can experience it one day. We are so thankful for our perfect lunch here and we hope everyone can go and taste their lovely food and feel the warmth and...

During my two weeks in Italy, dining at Vini e Vecchi Sapori was without a doubt the highlight of my trip. I first discovered this little gem on Instagram and immediately tried to book—only to find they were so popular that the first reservation I could get was two weeks later, at 9pm on a Monday night! That alone told me it was going to be special, and I’m happy to say it exceeded every expectation.

What truly makes this restaurant so incredible isn’t just the food, but the service and atmosphere. Even before sitting down, I found myself wanting to come back—just from watching the energy inside and outside. The place was absolutely buzzing: a small, cozy space that fits maybe 20 people, packed with happy diners, and a crowd waiting outside hoping for a table. At 9pm on a Monday, people were still being turned away—it’s that popular.

When we arrived, we were greeted by the most welcoming host (who I believe is also the owner). He had this charming way of guessing guests’ names based on the reservations, instantly making everyone feel special. Our table wasn’t quite ready, but instead of leaving us waiting, he handed us each a glass of Prosecco and invited us to relax on the lounge chairs outside. Such a thoughtful touch that made the experience even more memorable.

The highlight of the evening was watching the owner weave his way through the restaurant, cracking jokes, recommending dishes, and spreading genuine joy to every table. It’s rare these days to see hospitality staff who so clearly love what they do, but here it shines through. His energy made the whole atmosphere unforgettable.

Of course, the food was also phenomenal. I ordered the osso buco with risotto and roast potatoes on the side, while my friend had the fettuccine ai porcini freschi—both dishes were outstanding. Honestly, I wish I could have eaten here every night just to try more of the menu.

If you’re visiting Florence, do yourself a favor and book this restaurant in advance. Don’t rely on walking in—you’ll likely miss out. And remember, you need to call to make a reservation. This is one of those experiences that will stay with you long...

This is the Italian restaurant that lives in rent free in your dreams after a 2-week vacation in Italy. The place that you day dream about on your first day back at work battling a crippling depression, thinking about going back and about what could be.

Vini e Vecchi has the feeling of being in the home of a big Italian family. All the servers are laughing and cracking smiles while selling you on which wine you should get and why. I am the EASIEST sell on Chianti. All the wine is local to the region, just like the vibes. I don't know what that means but it felt good coming off my keyboard so I'm leaving it ahaha.

This is also one of the confirmed places Anthony Bourdain ate/filmed at for unreleased episode of Parts Unknown that took place in Florence. Everything about that man fascinates me so I had to visit.

I was sat at the same table as a French couple, as they do community seating. I honestly loved it since I am galivanting solo, so I chatted with them for a bit but then let them get back to enjoying their date.

The menus are all hand written day of which adds to the authentic, home-style feel. The MVP of the meal was the Pappardelle with duck sauce. I was blown away by the texture of the noodles. If fresh had a taste, it would be these noodles.

I also had to get the Florentine Tripe, as this is the place Bourdain tweeted about when referencing how much he loved Tripe. It was my 2nd time trying Tripe, and I've settled on the conclusion that it just isn't for me. It's something with the texture I can't get past, but that's 100% a me problem.

A top 3 restaurant in Firenze for me, and not overrun with tourists. Yet. Oh also make a res if you can it...