You imagine a certain kind of rather traditional option for restaurants and coffee shops in Italy but, of course, there are more modern and cutting-edge options available and one thing that we love to do is track down all sorts of different kinds of places to eat on our next trip to various cities. With Florence currently in mind, I was looking at lots of places, hunting for something special, when I came across the magical and appealing interiors of La Ménagère.
Set in a historic space that was home to the first homewares store in Florence, opened at the end of the 19th century, the store was reopened not too long ago as the current enterprise and has been reimagined as a minimalist and eclectic space, full of charm and romance. It is a restaurant and concept store that sells floral arrangements, fragrances, home accessories and more. Redesigned by architecture and design office q-bic, it is divided into ten different spaces; an informal café that sells pastries and coffees and is decorated with vintage furniture; a glamorous bar serving experimental cocktails; a main restaurant that is the focal point of the whole enterprise and run by the same people as La Prova del Nove and operated by staff from the reputable Istituto Alberghiero Saffi catering college who get a chance to hone skills and bring enthusiasm and innovation; a florist's space; and more.
If you have found a luxury villa in Florence and are looking for somewhere a little bit different to grab your coffee and morning pastry or a bite to eat for lunch or dinner, this is a wonderful breath of fresh air that still embraces Florentine traditions but gives it a bit of a fresh turn. I know I can't wait to spend a lazy morning planning a day exploring the city there! Just look at those interiors.