Indulging in Italian Classics at Pasticceria Pansa Amalfi

Pasticceria Pansa, steeped in tradition since 1830, has been a purveyor of sweet confectionery, offering a delectable array of Classic Italian delights such as Sfogliatella, Tiramisu, and Pasticciotto. Inside the shop, the timeless ambiance lingers, while outside, tables enjoy the radiant warmth of the Amalfi sunshine.

As I settled in, I indulged in a cup of coffee, a scoop of Bronte Pistachio gelato, and a Lemon Delight.

Bronte pistachios are renowned globally for their exceptional quality, and this gelato truly lives up to that reputation. The gelato is smooth, creamy, and rich, showcasing the perfect intensity of pistachio flavor. Each spoonful is a blissful indulgence, leaving a lingering taste of pistachio perfection. It is one of the best pistachio gelatos I’ve had.

Originating from Almafi, the Lemon Delight is a dome-shaped sponge cake with lemon custard covered in a lemon glaze. While the sponge cake is light and airy, I found it a tad too sweet, which unfortunately overshadowed the delicate tartness of the lemon.

Pasticceria Pansa Amalfi

Website: https://www.pasticceriapansa.com/
Telephone: +39089871065
Opening hours: Monday to Sunday 7:30 a.m. – 23:00 p.m.
Address: Piazza Duomo, 40, 84011 Amalfi SA, Italy

A Must-Try Pizza Fritta Experience

You can’t visit Naples without tasting pizza fritta (Fried pizza). Located just a few shops down from the renowned Gino e Toto Sorbillo on Via dei Tribunali, this takeaway spot serves a variety of Italian street foods, including folded pizza, pizza fritta, and baked calzoncini.

Upon entering, I asked for a recommendation, and the guy behind the counter suggested the Spaccanapoli ( €4.80). It boasted a tantalizing combination of smoked mozzarella, ricotta cheese, tomato, black pepper, basil, and olive oil. Its rich flavors and fresh ingredients almost resembled a classic Margherita pizza.

What’s more, the pizzas are made to order, ensuring each bite is fresh and delicious. The prices are also affordable, making it the perfect spot to grab a quick and satisfying bite while exploring the area.

‘A Puteca d’ ‘a Pizza

Opening hours:

Monday	11:30 am–10:30 pm
Tuesday	11:30 am–10:30 pm
Wednesday	11:30 am–10:30 pm
Thursday	11:30 am–10:30 pm
Friday	11:30 am–11 pm
Saturday	11:30 am–11:30 pm
Sunday	11:30 am–11:15 pm

Address:Via dei Tribunali, 86, 80139 Napoli NA, Italy

Classic American Breakfast in Florence

Rooster is a cozy café nestled in the heart of Florence, right next to Museo di Palazzo Davanzati. This is the spot for you if you’re craving a change from the usual Italian breakfast scene. This rustic cafe serves classic American breakfasts such as pancakes, chicken and waffles, and bagels.

Being an early bird, I reached the café before it opened, finding it blissfully quiet. Given its reputation for getting crowded, I advise coming early in the morning to avoid the crowd.

As for the experience, the food and drinks were amazing. However, what truly impressed me was the outstanding service. The staff members are exceptionally friendly, welcoming, and relaxed, always sporting bright smiles that add to the warm ambiance of the café.

Basil Detox

(Basil, celery, cucumber, apple, lemon, ginger, topped with mint and chia seeds)

Heart Attack

(Espresso, milk, chocolate, coffee syrup, topped with whipped cream)

Chicken and waffles

Whenever chicken and waffles are an option, I’m all over it! They’re my go-to choice.

The chicken was tender on the inside with a crispy, well-seasoned coating on the outside. It’s fried to golden perfection, offering a satisfying crunch with each bite. The waffle was light with a slightly crisp edge.

Rooster Cafe Firenze

Website: https://www.roostercafefirenze.com/
Opening hours:

Sunday	9 am–9 pm
Monday	Closed
Tuesday	9 am–9 pm
Wednesday	9 am–9 pm
Thursday	9 am–9 pm
Friday	9 am–11 pm
Saturday	9 am–11 pm

Telephone: +390552645006
Address: Via Porta Rossa, 63R, 50123 Firenze FI, Italy

Pepe in Grani

Like many others, I learned about Pepe in Grani from the Netflix series “Chef’s Table.”

Franco Pepe is recognized as one of the best pizzaiolos in the world. His restaurant, Pepe in Grani, is located in the quaint historic town of Caiazzo. Situated approximately an hour’s drive from Naples or an hour and a half by train, the restaurant offers the convenience of coordinating taxi transfers back to Naples upon request.

The restaurant’s ambiance was inviting, with rustic yet charming décor. Pepe in Grani offers three distinct dining areas to cater to different preferences and party sizes. The Ordinary Room provides flexibility, allowing guests to choose between the à la carte or tasting menu options. Meanwhile, The Hall of Taste is exclusively reserved for those indulging in the tasting menu experience. The Gustarte offers ample space and comfort for larger groups of six or more.

Pepe’s pizza dough is handmade and left to rest in traditional media boxes. All ingredients are seasonal and locally grown.

The tasting menus are only available for a minimum of 2 people. I highly advise making reservations in advance to avoid long waiting times in line. Additionally, you can report any allergies and/or intolerances at the end of your booking.

I chose the ESSENZA tasting menu, which includes 1 fried pizza, 4 slices of assorted pizzas, and 1 fried dessert. If it’s your first time, the chef will curate the selection for you. However, if you have specific preferences, feel free to inform them, and they’ll gladly accommodate your choices.

So, what do I think of the pizza?
I found the pizza delicious, offering unique flavors I hadn’t experienced before. The crust, in particular, stood out for its light and airy texture, unlike any other I’ve tried. Furthermore, the pizza is not soggy in the middle. I read this because the only ingredients that bake with the dough in the oven are the mozzarella, the artichokes, and the prosciutto cotto, while the other ingredients are added afterward.
However, given the high expectations set by the media, I was anticipating a mind-blowing experience that unfortunately didn’t materialize. My advice? Go into your visit with an open mind, and let the culinary journey pleasantly surprise you.

CIRO

Cone with 12-month Grana Padano DOP fondue, rocket pesto, dehydrated Caiazzo black olives.

MARGHERITA SBAGLIATA

Campana DOP Buffalo mozzarella cheese, purée of “Riccio” tomatoes, basil reduction, Evo oil.

SCARPETTA

Campana DOP Buffalo mozzarella, 12-month Grana Padano fondue, uncooked tomato compote, freeze-dried pesto basil, flakes of 24-month Grana Padano DOP cheese

MANGIABUFALO

Fabula buffalo soft cheese, fiordilatte mozzarella cheese, toasted bread with Balsamico Modena IGP vinegar, walnuts, buffalo bresaola, raw frisée, and Evo oil.

SALSICCIA E FRIARIELLI

Fiordilatte cheese, dried Casertano pork sausage, friarielli (broccoli rabe), chili pepper, buffalo ‘stracciata’ cheese, crunchy almonds, garlic EVO oil.

CRISOMMOLA DEL VESUVIO

Slice of fried pizza with lemon peels flavored DOP buffalo ricotta cheese, Vesuvio apricot jam, roasted hazelnuts, Caiazzo dehydrated olives, and fresh mint.

Pepe in Grani

Website: https://www.pepeingrani.it/
Telephone: +39 0823 86 27 18
Opening hours: Tuesday to Sunday 18:30 p.m. – 00:30 a.m., Sundays 12:30p.m. – 15:50 p.m.
Address: Vicolo S. Giovanni Battista, 3, 81013 Caiazzo CE, Italy

Ditta Riva D’Arno

Located next to the Ponte alla Carraia, this café stands out as an early riser, welcoming guests from 8 am onwards. Among its three other branches in Florence, this particular café stands out with its vibrant, bright-colored mural adorning the walls and floor, infusing the space with vibrant energy.

The cafe offers an extensive selection of coffee and homemade pastries, including both sweet and savory options like croissants, cinnamon rolls, cakes, and more.

I ordered a flat white, Margarita focaccia, and ham and cheese croissant. While the ambiance may impress, the coffee leaves something to be desired, bearing a disappointing sour aftertaste. On a brighter note, the margarita focaccia and croissant with ham and cheese fare well, complemented by friendly service.

Ditta Riva D’Arno

Website: https://www.menudittaartigianale.com/
Telephone: +39 0553874550
Opening hours: 8:00 a.m. – 19:00 p.m. Daily
Address: Via Lungarno Soderini 7R – Firenze, IT

All’Antico Vinaio

All’Antico Vinaio is an institution in Florence known for its amazing schiacciata sandwiches. It is one of the city’s premier street foods and is an absolute must-try for anyone exploring the city.

During my visit in the off-peak season, I was fortunate to find a manageable line. To expedite the process, the staff cleverly encouraged customers to scan a QR code for the menu, which helped keep things moving smoothly.

Observing the sandwich being prepared right in front of me was quite satisfying. I opted for the Vegetariana 3 (featuring Gorgonzola, courgettes, sun-dried tomatoes, and rocket leaves) and the La Numero 1 (roast suckling pig, cream of onion, and roast potato cream), which cost € 16 each. I was treated to generous portions brimming with fresh, good-quality ingredients. The succulent roast suckling pig paired beautifully with the sweet onion cream, further elevating the experience.

This sandwich definitely ranks among the most exceptional and unforgettable I’ve ever tasted.

All’Antico Vinaio

Website: https://www.allanticovinaio.com/
Opening hours: Daily 10:00 a.m. – 22:00 p.m.

Main branch
Via dei Neri, 65r, 50122 Firenze FI, Italy

Piazza San Marco branch
Via Ricasoli, 121r, 50121 Firenze FI, Italy