Ristorante al Cristo: Verona, Italy
It was our last night in Verona and we couldn’t resist returning to one of our new favorite restaurants, Cristo.
This time we started with the wild Sicilian red tuna tartare and the scallops and tomato with panzanella. Both were incredibly fresh and flavorful dishes. Next, we devoured the grilled Sicilian tuna, which was complimented perfectly with black rice. The linguine with blue lobster was unbelievable. I couldn’t believe how palate pleasing this dish was, so I asked the waitress what exactly was used to prepare the heavenly dish – olive oil and crushed tomatoes. Naturally, I purchased a bottle in hopes that CD can attempt to recreate this magnificent dish back home.
Our meal was just so incredible that we didn’t want it to end, so we ordered the cheese plate! It was a great assortment of formaggi accompanied by kiwi covered in a glaze consisting of the perfect consistency of sweet and spicy flavor that would have been equally as incredible on sashimi.
We look forward to our next visit to Verona and our next meal at Cristo.
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Ristorante al Cristo: Verona, Italy
Prior to our departure we had an amazing lunch with friends at Cristo. Words cannot begin to describe how incredible this restaurant is. From its impressive wine list to its enticing pasta and seafood selections, Cristo is now definitely one of our all-time favorite restaurants.
For lunch we enjoyed the massive plate of grilled Sicilian prawns, which was pure heaven. So sweet and delectable. Definitely worth devouring with both hands. Yes, it’s that finger-licking-good.
Made with only olive oil and cherry tomatoes, the spaghetti with mixed seafood was prepared to perfection. This is one of those dishes that you’re determined to finish, even though the buttons on your pants are warning you not to. The leeks soufflé with parmigiano cream and crispy cinta senese ham was a rich and decadent treat. The homemade ravioli with goat cheese and crunchy asparagus is also a delicious dish that was cooked to perfection. The paccheri with porcini and braised meat was also another equally delectable dish.
Basically, we LOVED every dish we ordered. We enjoyed a robust bottle of 1988 Gaja. From the company to the feast, it was truly a blissful dining experience.
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Giogoli Rossi: Tuscany, Italy
Located 20 minutes outside of Florence’s city center in the town of Scandicci, this charming family-owned establishment offers a delicious homemade dishes with true Tuscan flavor.
We first experienced Giogoli Rossi one year ago on the eve of the SaraDISH & Creative Director Italian wedding. Together with our family we feasted on multiple courses of fresh made pasta dishes, meats and desserts. We enjoyed each dish with the family’s house made wine, which is phenomenal.
Upon our recent visit, we were welcomed again with the same warmth and excitement as we received one year ago. The family is incredibly kind and gracious, the food is absolute heaven and the wine is simply divine.
What better way to celebrate a special occasion than with the company of CD and a family that is incredibly passionate about the creation of their traditional cuisine. Highly recommend making reservations and experiencing Giogoli Rossi with your family. Indoor and outdoor dining is available.
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Trattoria Tre Soldi: Florence, Italy
Every time we visit Florence we make sure to dine at Tre Soldi. And each time we return we are graciously welcomed by owner Maximo and his daughter.
This family establishment is a fantastic local spot with incredible food and terrific wine. Since our Italian isn’t as conversational as we like to believe, we ordered dishes using photos from our prior trips and asked Maximo to prepare us his pasta specials for the evening.
From the pasta to the steak to the second bottle of wine, we were in culinary bliss. The two pasta selections we had were a perfect combination of sweet & creamy and light & meaty. The steak was perfectly prepared with its juices intact, enhancing the natural flavors of this perfectly prepared meat.
We highly recommend making reservations as this charming restaurant is quite the popular spot amongst locals. Also, order as much variety so you can truly enjoy a family style experience.
Check out our photo sets of Tre Soldi from March 2011 & May 2011.
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Il Salviatino: Florence, Italy
As we celebrate our 1st anniversary, it’s only natural to return to the venue that welcomed our families and helped celebrate the union of SaraDISH & CD.
As we sipped rose, we enjoyed a delicious meal of bresaola and cheese and an incredible club sandwich all while taking in the breathtaking view of Duomo and the enchanting city of Firenze.
Il Salviatino is still by far one of our favorite resort getaways. From the genuine warmth of the staff to the rustic and cozy rooms, the beautiful villa of Il Salviatino truly feels like our home away. And it sure feels good to be “home.”
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