Our last day in Florence, Stefano took Chris and me to a favorite restaurant that is owned by a friend of his, Edoardo Gazzetti. (That's me and Edoardo in the phot0.) This marvelous trattoria is one that would be off the beaten path for most tourists. It is located in what would be Florence's financial district and only the locals know about it. Palle D'oro has been family owned and in the same location since 1860. And Edoardo told me that the food is all made from old family recipes.

We started off with, as all our meals did except for breakfast, a great bottle of wine. The three dishes we shared were:

Salsicce e fagioli (White beans in a red sauce with homemade sausage).
This was a very simple but delicious dish. A delicate red sauce with a sausage that was a bit hot but not overwheming and of a fine texture. Delicious!

Pappa al Pomodoro (Reduced vegetable stew with a tomato base).
This is a dish that is hard to describe. It is a regional favorite. It is sort of stew that has been mashed into a sort of porridge. It has a rich flavor of vegetables and spices but is very mild. I would guess that is a comfort food. Very unusual and a real treat!

And the star of the meal ...
Coniglio Ripieno (Rabbit Filet stuffed with prosciutto and artichoke hearts).
This was one of the most fabulous things I have ever tasted! When the dish is served, it is in 2 little circles. The rabbit surrounds the ham and artichoke hearts and has been roasted in it's own juices. Incredible!!!

Then we completed our meal with coffee and a shot of Limoncello, a lemon liquore that is served very cold. I know you can buy it here in the States. It's lovely.

So if you have the great fortune to go to Florence, visit Edoardo and send my love!

Palle D'Oro
Via S. Antonino, 43-45
Firenze, Italy
Tele 055.28.83.83