Food for Life: One Shop’s Initiative to Make a Difference in Florence
By Stephanie Naru
From Blending Newsletter’s first Spring 2013 issue.
During my first weekend in Florence I completely let my senses indulge. Scoops of creamy gelato, hearty pasta dishes, and the toasty scent of espresso wafting around every corner clouded my thoughts while stunning art and architecture significantly widened my eyes. Part of this exploration included a scenic afternoon adventure up to Piazzale Michelangelo where I was looking forward to taking in some breathtaking views of the city. But just before ascending the staircase to this look-out point, I found a charming little shop nestled on this hill that was too inviting to ignore.
As soon as you step through the door of Il Fiore di Zucca a colorful wooden table covered of fresh vegetables and walls lined with rustic bags of pasta, flour and other grain products will catch your eye. But if you take a closer look, what sets this little establishment apart is it’s dedication to sustainability, supporting local farmers, and selling organic foods. Even in Florence, the capital city of Tuscany, where it’s relatively easy to find fresh and delicious food – finding products that were not mass produced is quite rare. Cristina Palagi and partner Teresa Bagni, founders of Il Fiore di Zucca, work with local farmers within the region of Tuscany and surrounding areas to sell a wide variety of clean products not only for environmental and economical reasons, but because of their belief in food as a main source of fuel for a healthy body and happy life.
So if you’re on your way up to the Piazza or simply would like to try something new, I completely recommend you take a moment and visit Il Fiore di Zucca. Wondering what to try? Some of their most popular items include delicious goat cheese fresh from Chianti and fresh baked bread from the provence of Diacceto just outside of Florence. Other items include seasonal fruits and vegetables, baked goods including gluten free and vegan cookies, bulk items, wine, oil, canned items, fresh milk and a variety of cheeses, products for the home and body, and even artisan beers.
Il Fiore di Zucca is located at Via dell’Erta Canina 1/r
Open Mon – Sat: 8:30AM – 7:30PM
Delivery is available
Find them on Facebook!