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The must-try spring dishes at Florence’s best restaurants

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Where to go and what to order to experience spring even at the table

Florence is a distillation of unique dishes and flavours that go far beyond the classics of steak, ribollita, pappa al pomodoro, tripe and lampredotto. This is food from the distant past, from a tradition of simple yet high-quality ingredients, now interlaced with the most delicious modern touches. Especially at this time to year, menus feature fresher, more joyful options that encapsulate the most authentic flavours of spring. From home-made pasta to meat-based mains that delight the eyes and the mind, fish so fresh it will take you straight to the sea for a moment, and timeless classics like properly cooked Florentine steak, the kitchens of the best-known restaurants wake up and magically produce dishes that are true masterpieces. But where to go? From famous fine-dining establishments to traditional trattorias, come with us and find out what to eat in spring at some of Florence’s top restaurants.

HERE our definitive guide to the city’s best restaurantsHERE the trattorias not to be missedHERE the best pizzerias, and HERE our gluten free selection!

In a 16th-century buca or cellar, you can enjoy the cuisine of Buca Mario. We recommend the Lasagnetta di “Nonna Isabella”: a traditional dish that’s synonymous with old-fashioned family cooking, prepared from a recipe handed down for generations and dedicated to the person who made the restaurant so special and welcoming (Piazza Ottaviani, 16r).

Lasagnetta di “Nonna Isabella” – BUCA MARIO

Opened in 1880 in the cellars of Palazzo Antinori, this restaurant preserves over a century of history thanks to a meticulous restoration, and is the kingdom of the Bistecca alla Fiorentina, cut at least four fingers thick. The meat is mostly from Italian white steers of the Chianina or Marchigiana breeds, cooked over the red-hot embers of olive wood (Via del Trebbio, 1r).

Bistecca alla fiorentina – BUCA LAPI

With its classy convivial ambience, Trattoria 4 Leoni honours traditional Tuscan cuisine, without forgetting a touch of the modern. The dishes are guaranteed to impress, including Eggs Florentine en cocotte with truffle (Via de’ Vellutini, 1r).

Eggs Florentine en cocotte with truffle – TRATTORIA 4 LEONI

Whether it’s a working lunch or an informal catch-up, a break during a cultural visit or an intimate dinner, Trattoria Cammillo has welcomed guests in its timeless style for over 70 years. The food is the most authentic Tuscan, and at this time of year you absolutely shouldn’t miss the Taglierini with fresh peas (Borgo S. Jacopo, 57r).

Taglierini ai piselli freschi – TRATTORIA CAMMILLO

The ground floor of Palazzo Antinori is home to Cantinetta Antinori, the perfect place to sample the wines of the Antinori estates alongside typical Tuscan specialities. These include Gnudi alla Fiorentina (Florentine dumplings), made from a traditional recipe and flavoured with nutmeg and lemon peel (Piazza degli Antinori, 3).

Gnudi alla fiorentina – CANTINETTA ANTINORI

An authentic Tuscan inn where lunch can be a moving experience. Here you have to try the Artichoke tortino, a dish that looks and tastes like no other. Beaten eggs are cooked over the wood fire to line the edges of the pan, where they form a golden frame for the artichokes frying in the centre (Via del Porcellana, 25r).

Artichoke tortino – TRATTORIA SOSTANZA

Set in the ancient gardens surrounding Four Seasons Hotel Firenze, the one-Michelin-starred Il Palagio headed by chef Paolo Lavezzini is ready to offer you an unforgettable evening. How? With unparalleled dishes like fusilloni rigati with egg white, red mullet, grapefruit and caviar Osietra Giaveri (Borgo Pinti, 99).

Fusilloni – IL PALAGIO

Inside the atmospheric Corte Cosimo I, Salotto Portinari Bar & Bistrot is the cosy Sala Bistrot, perfect for a business lunch, a more informal dinner or just to sip an excellent coffee or a signature cocktail. At this time of year, we recommend the spring risotto with asparagus, peas and broad beans (Via del Corso, 6).

Risotto primavera

Elegant yet functional, Osteria delle Tre panche at Hotel Hermitage offers food inspired by the local area, with outstanding dishes featuring truffles and much more. At this time of year you can choose the Maccheroncetti alla rustica, on the menu since 1986 (Vicolo Marzio, 1).

Maccheroncetti alla rustica – OSTERIA DELLE TRE PANCHE

A creative and elegant culinary philosophy with one foot in tradition and the other in constant evolution. At Gucci Osteria different worlds and flavours intertwine to create dishes that are innovative and always extraordinary, like the Midday & Midnight Spaghettata, with spaghettini, artichoke ceviche and mint (Piazza Della Signoria, 10).

Midday and Midnight Spaghetti

The simple, convivial atmosphere of a Tuscan trattoria where you can enjoy the most flavourful of traditional cuisine, updated with more contemporary versions. A cult dish for spring? The Carpaccio of beef, ponzu, capers, marinated egg yolk and shoots… try it to believe it! (Via di Santo Spirito, 64/66).

The Carpaccio of beef IL SANTO BEVITORE

The talent of chef Rocco de Santis at the two-Michelin-starred Santa Elisabetta is showcased in the beautiful Byzantine Pagliazza Tower inside the charming Brunelleschi Hotel. The food is pure, essential and minimalist, like the fabulous Red Mullet in Saffron Bread Crust (Piazza Santa Elisabetta, 3).

Red Mullet in Saffron Bread Crust – SANTA ELISABETTA

At Cibrèo Ristorante & Cocktail Bar in the Starhotels Helvetia & Bristol Firenze, the spring menu offers seasonal vegetable dishes that are irresistible. Among the stand-out dishes is il Carciofo, an artichoke heart vacuum-cooked, filled with a foam of pecorino romano and parsley and dressed with olive oil flavoured with roasted artichoke, creating a delicious sauce (Via dei Pescioni, 2).

il Carciofo – CIBRÈO RISTORANTE & COCKTAIL BAR



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Indian fast food that hits the spot – The Irish Times

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Delhi2Dublin

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Address: Priory Market, Main Road, Tallaght, Dublin D24 YYK4

Telephone: N/A

Cuisine: Indian

Website: https://delhi2dublin.ie/Opens in new window

Cost: €€

What’s on offer?

Delhi2Dublin is a small family outfit which is finally planting roots after years on the market circuit. Its new base at Priory Market in Tallaght is its first permanent home.

The menu, chalked on a blackboard, wanders across India’s street food map. You’ll find samosas, hand-folded momos, pani puri, and vada pav, the Mumbai potato burger. Sides stay snacky – masala fries dusted in Delhi-style seasoning.

“Kebab-ish” ups the portions. There’s a kebab platter with minced or seekh-style kebabs, salad, chutney, mayo and masala chips; a naan sandwich with kebabs, salad, peppers, onions and cheese; or loaded fries topped with kebabs, chutney, mayo and cheese.

“Big Bites” mean full meals; a crispy butter chicken rice bowl with potato bhaji, chickpea rice and cucumber salad, a naan wrap of the same, a chicken tikka masala burger stacked with fried fillets, mint slaw and masala fries, or chicken tikka masala loaded fries.

Dishes such as like the chicken rice bowl, loaded fries with chicken tikka or kebabs, and the loaded naan sandwich are proving to be the most popular choices.

What did we order?

Chicken samosas, the crispy butter chicken rice bowl, a lamb kebab platter and a loaded naan wrap.

How was the service?

This is a popular food stall, so there was a queue and a bit of a wait. You’re given a buzzer that goes off when your order is ready.

Delhi2Dublin is a popular outlet in Priory Market

How was the food?

The chicken samosas were a mixed bag. The filling of mashed veg and cumin was good, and the dipping sauce worked, but they were greasy and not very crisp.

The crispy butter chicken rice bowl was as expected; breadcrumbed chicken with a spicy butter sauce, sticky rice, chickpeas and a fresh minty sauce on top of lettuce. The sauce was good, and the chickpeas and mint gave it a nice lift, though it’s more a fast-food version than a proper curry.

The lamb kebab platter came with a kofta-style minced lamb kebab, salad, dressing and masala chips. The chips were salty but a bit limp – fine for soaking up sauce but not much crunch. The loaded naan wrap used the same chicken and salad as the rice bowl, but in a large naan folded over, with plenty to eat. Overall, it is fast food that hits the spot if you want saucy, filling carbs.

Delhi2Dublin is open daily, 11am-10pm

What about the packaging?

Everything is served in cardboard packaging.

What did it cost?

It was €45 for lunch for three people: chicken samosas, €4; crispy butter chicken rice bowl, €14; lamb kebab platter, €13; and loaded naan wrap, €14.

Where does it deliver?

Takeaway and dine-in only. Open daily, 11am-10pm.

Would I order it again?

Yes, Priory Market is a vibrant market with a great atmosphere, and the food here – particularly the lamb kofta – is perfect for eating on site.



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Restaurant Week 2025 showcases Alabama’s top culinary talent

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Alabama foodies, rejoice: Birmingham Restaurant Week is back for another year, and it’s more delicious than ever.

This annual culinary celebration brings together nearly 50 local restaurants, food trucks, bars, and catering companies, offering exclusive, limited-time menus and special pricing to highlight the best of Birmingham’s food scene. From upscale dining experiences and international flavors to casual favorites and hidden gems, Restaurant Week invites locals and visitors alike to explore and support the city’s vibrant culinary culture.

Restaurant Week’s Preview Party, which was held at Haven in Birmingham’s Southside, gave us a taste of what to expect in the week ahead. The lively event brought together chefs, restaurant owners, and food lovers under one roof to sample bites and sips from over a dozen participating spots. The evening highlighted the creativity, passion, and diversity that define Birmingham’s ever-evolving food scene. Take a look at some of the Preview Party’s standouts, as well as what you can expect from their Restaurant Week offerings.

 

Offering a fresh and elevated take on Latin cuisine, Sol Y Luna pairs artful tapas with handcrafted cocktails. From small plates to fresh margaritas, this is a go-to destination for flavor-packed nights with friends or a lively date spot. At the Preview Party, chef and owner Jorge Castro served up perfect bites of passion fruit shrimp ceviche on tortillas.

Castro has been part of Restaurant Week since its beginning, and commented on how the event brings the community together. “Restaurant Week is about the people,” he said. “We really get to know our customers and it’s amazing to see them return year after year, while also meeting many new faces.” Their Restaurant Week specials include fixed-price dinner menus featuring shrimp sliders, a Cuban sandwich, and a tres leches lemon cake.

(Birmingham Restaurant Week/Contributed)

Magnolia Point is redefining Southern soul food with an inventive twist, serving up comforting dishes that bring the bayou flavors. The restaurant is housed in a restored 1930s building at the corner of downtown’s Magnolia Avenue, and offers relaxed vibes that evoke everyone’s favorite seaside snacks. Their Preview Party sampling? A perfectly dippable black-eyed pea hummus with vegetable crudité, which is offered on both their lunch and dinner fixed-price menus for Restaurant Week along with plenty of Gulf Coast flavors like their classic gumbo and fried catfish.

(Birmingham Restaurant Week/Contributed)

A longtime pillar of Birmingham’s food scene, Michael’s Restaurant continues to impress with its steak, seafood, and Southern favorites. Under the leadership of Bernadine Birdsong, the restaurant has embraced Restaurant Week as an opportunity to connect with the community. “I love Restaurant Week because it brings people out and allows them the opportunity to try something new,” she said. Their Restaurant Week menu has promised to include their legendary Salmon Rockefeller: pan seared salmon topped with a spinach cream sauce and chopped bacon.

(Birmingham Restaurant Week/Contributed)

One of the city’s longest-standing Indian restaurants, Taj India has been serving Birmingham customers for nearly 30 years and is delighted to participate in Restaurant Week once more. Known for its rich curries, and warm hospitality, this Five Points favorite has become a go-to spot for both longtime locals and newcomers craving authentic Indian cuisine. 

At the Restaurant Week Preview Party, Taj India served its beloved Chicken Tikka Masala–a comforting, flavor-packed dish that showcased the depth and warmth of traditional Indian cooking and was a standout among the evening’s offerings. The Chicken Tikka is featured on their fixed-price Restaurant Week menu, along with tandoori chicken and sag paneer.

 

From beloved institutions to rising stars, this year’s Birmingham Restaurant Week promises something for every palate. Whether you’re revisiting an old favorite or discovering a new go-to spot, there’s never been a better time to celebrate the creativity, culture, and connection that Birmingham’s culinary scene has to offer.

Several exciting events are lined up to keep the celebration going. Sipology, a cocktail tasting experience featuring local mixologists and spirit brands, will take place on Tuesday, July 23rd at City Walk Social. For a bit of foodie fun, don’t miss the BRW Scavenger Hunt, happening Saturday, July 20th, where you can explore the city and earn prizes along the way. 

 

Birmingham Restaurant Week begins today, July 17th, and runs through July 26th. For more information about participating restaurants and special event tickets, visit bhamrestaurantweek.com.



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Restaurants Popular For Their Crowd-Pleasing Vegetarian Dishes In Andheri & Juhu

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When in Mumbai, especially around Andheri and Juhu, it’s not hard to find a buzzing cafe or a swanky fine-dining spot. But if you’re looking for hearty, budget-friendly vegetarian meals that pack in flavour and don’t break your bank, this guide is for you.

From soulful South Indian breakfasts to indulgent Rajasthani thalis and celeb-favourite paratha joints, here’s your ultimate veg food guide across Andheri and Juhu.

Shree Gomateshwara Bhavan

Craving soul food with a side of comfort? Shree Gomateshwara Bhavan is your go-to for South Indian delights with a twist. Don’t miss their Thecha Benny Dosa, and if you love coconut-based stews, their Idiyappam with vegetable stew will hit the right spot.

Where: Shree Gomateshwara Bhavan, Malad West, Near Andheri

Cost: Rs 500 for two

Vihara

Vihara – The International by Tunga specialises in quick upscale dining with a vast variety, including North and South Indian, Chinese, fast food, biryanis, and even pizzas. Their Chole Bhature and Sambhar are standouts, and you can’t go wrong with their Gini Dosa or Anjeer Halwa.

Where: Vihara – The International by Tunga, Andheri East

Cost: Rs 600 for two

Dakshinayan

If you love authentic South Indian fare served without frills, Dakshinayan is a classic pick. The Sweet Pongal, idlis, and range of dosas will take you straight to Tamil Nadu.

Where: Dakshinayan, Juhu

Cost: Rs 700 for two

Rajdhani Thali

When hunger hits hard, nothing beats a grand thali. Rajdhani Thali serves up the best of Rajasthani and Gujarati cuisine in a lavish thali spread. Expect dal baati, dhokla, sabzis, rotis, farsan, and indulgent sweets in a traditional setting.

Where: Rajdhani Thali, Juhu

Cost: Rs 1,300 for two

Khasiyat

A haven for paratha lovers! Khasiyat the Paratha House is known for serving celeb-approved, hearty parathas, from Cheese Chilli to Aloo Methi and Chana Bhatura. It’s affordable, quick, and oh-so-satisfying.

Where: Khasiyat, Vile Parle West

Cost: Rs 400 for two

Banana Leaf

Banana Leaf is your premium spot for South Indian fine dining. Known for signature dishes like Rajni Dosa, Neer Dosa with Mushroom Sukka, and Palak Medu Wada, this place blends traditional recipes with a posh setting. Bonus points for the filter coffee!

Where: Banana Leaf, Versova, Andheri

Cost: Rs 1,200 for two

Shiv Sagar

An evergreen name in Mumbai’s vegetarian food scene, Shiv Sagar’s menu is a global vegetarian wonderland, featuring everything from pav bhaji and Chinese to street food and sizzlers. It’s a comfort spot you can always go to.

Where: Shiv Sagar, Juhu

Cost: Rs 900 for two

B Bhagat Tarachand

Classic North Indian done right! This budget-friendly joint is known for its Dal Baati, Papad Churi, and the ever-famous Kutchi Beer (creamy buttermilk). It’s comfort food with a Rajasthani soul and major local fanfare.

Where: B Bhagat Tarachand, Andheri West

Cost: Rs 350 for two

Radha Krishna

Zomato image

This family favourite in Andheri ticks all the right boxes with prompt service, a diverse vegetarian menu, and dishes you’ll keep coming back for. You can savour their Chole Tikki Platter, array of idli delicacies, pav bhaji and more.

Where: Radha Krishna Veg Restaurant, Andheri

Cost: Rs 1,000 for two

Govinda’s Restaurant

Govinda’s Restaurant website

This iconic restaurant inside ISKCON serves food first offered to Lord Krishna, making every bite spiritually and physically wholesome. From rich Indian mains to comforting desserts, Govinda’s global vegetarian menu (including Thai and Mexican!) will leave you blissfully full.

Where: Govinda’s Restaurant, ISKCON, Juhu

Cost: Rs 750 for two




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