"Europe has a tough time with Vietnamese cuisine, but this Florence outpost is making earnest strides thanks in part to its chef’s close ties to Vietnam. (A chef’s association in Ho Chi Minh City sent a few representatives oversee the early menu and kitchen training.) Here, regional Vietnamese dishes are served in a minimalist tearoom in the heart of Florence’s Santa Croce quarter. Expect delicate bowls of pho, vermicelli spring rolls, flat dumplings imbued with lemongrass, and tamarind shrimp plates. The imported tea selection includes unique lotus and artichoke varieties. Finish it off with a slice of banana-coconut cake." - Coral Sisk