Family flavours
Experiencing and tasting true Tuscan cuisine in Enrico Verrecchia’s restaurants
Enrico Verrecchia opened with his brother Giovanni and his brother-in-law nine of the most famous restaurants in Florence, including Perseus and 13 Gobbi.
How did this adventure of yours begin?
After working in food service in the United States for two years, I returned to Italy with the goal of opening my own restaurant. Together with my brother Giovanni and Aurelio Fontani, I opened Perseus.
Perseus is one of the most famous restaurants for the bistecca alla fiorentina...
When we opened in 1985, it was a proper steakhouse, and still today, the bistecca is what draws in many of our customers.
In 1997, you opened another of Florence’s top restaurants.
13 Gobbi was a success as soon as we opened. Our decision to use original furniture from the 1950s certainly bestowed a familiar feel to the restaurant.
Your must-try dishes?
Our Rigatoni with mozzarella and tomato is a must, served in a glass cocotte so the cheese stays soft. There is also the Tagliatona, an individual serving of the true bistecca alla fiorentina.
Many famous people love your restaurant.
It’s beloved not only by foreigners, but Florentines as well. Many famous people have passed through our doors, especially athletes. I’m thinking of Italy’s national football team, which won the World Cup in 2006, and even Gabriel Batistuta, who’s become a good friend.
Your favourite place in the city?
When I was a kid, I loved visiting the Boboli Gardens with my friends, hiking up to Forte Belvedere. I still think this is the most beauty walk in the city.
