So, it might be a bit out of town, but weekend nights near piazza Alberti offer an authentic slice of East Asia. Cucina 16 changes skin at dinner on Fridays and Saturdays, transforming the tables into #KucinaCoreana when Seoul-trained sous chef Jay You takes the helm.
In full Korean style with traditional dishes reworked with Tuscan touches, bringing to the fore local in-season and farm-fresh ingredients, your palate cannot help but be wowed by the five-course tasting menu. Dishes include Yukhwoe, Piedmontese Fassona beef tartare dressed with chilli, lime, green onions and pears; Bibimbap, rice with homegrown vegetables and sauces; the outstanding Samhap, glazed baccalà cod served on pork belly and kimchi, a traditional Korean dish of fermented vegetables; and low temperature organic egg, grated Jerusalem artichoke and misu drops.
The flair and fancy of the chef gives rise to a bonafide Korean dining experience, whose courses change every three months. A snap at just 30 euro, including wine and beer pairing (25 euro without drinks). Veggie and gluten-free options available on request.
My advice: book now and book fast. Places are limited, reservations are mandatory—and now I’ve let Florence’s latest culinary secret out of the bag. Oops.
Cucina 16
Via Aretina 16, Florence
Tel. 055 5389452
Website
