Il Gusto di XINGE

Where to Eat Alone in Florence: Top Picks for Solo Travelers

"A bit on the fringes of Florence’s historical center but worth the detour both in terms of cuisine and location. Il Gusto, parlayed from their flagship bao hole-in-the-wall, is a fusion of Chef Xin Ge Liu’s vision of dim sum drawing from both Tuscan influences and her childhood food memories in China. This hot spot runs a thoughtfully designed bar program and is perfect for solo travelers who enjoy a counter seat in front of an open kitchen." - Coral Sisk

Where to Eat in Florence by Neighborhood

"In a revitalized corner of town, the chef reimagines Chinese cuisine—dim sum included—with an elevated twist that feels fresh yet comforting." - Georgette Jupe

Meet Xin Ge Liu: The Visionary Behind Florence’s Fashion-Forward Chinese Restaurant

"My restaurant began as a tiny takeaway for dim sum and dumplings, when many locals didn’t even know what they were, and it’s grown into a fashion-forward space where mood boards and my grandmother’s recipes meet a repertoire of mainly Cantonese and Hong Kong dishes. I’m not trying to cook for everyone in conservative Florence; I just want my crowd, and we’ve found it. The experience here should feel like traveling, with hospitality that’s sensorial and considered—think small gestures like a yuzu-and-essential-oil tea to set the tone—bringing style and innovation to a city that doesn’t often see it." - Laura Rysman

"The dining room at this restaurant is decorated in brown tones reminiscent of a teapot, brightened here and there by dashes of blue and modern leather chairs. The Chinese chef serves cuisine from his native country (including dim sum), while also remaining open to influences from France and Italy. Inspired by the Chinese book of the same name, the Dream of Red Chambers dish (lychee-shaped balls filled with shrimp and melted cheese) is particularly recommended by our inspector." - Michelin Inspector