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Go JRE-Inside+Interview with Ombretta Giovannini and Filippo Saporito.
Ombretta Giovannini and Filippo Saporito are chefs at restaurant La Leggenda dei Frati. After completing their culinary studies, where Ombretta and Filippo met, they both worked in restaurants all around the world. For Filippo this included restaurant Arnolfo in Italy, Sale e Tabacchi in Berlin and Paolo Petrini in Paris. In 2002 they decided it was time to open their own fine-dining establishment. Together they opened the doors of restaurant La Leggenda dei Frati. Honoured with a Michelin star, they present an Italian cuisine with a modern twist that is designed to convey emotions, memories and culture. We asked Ombretta and Filippo some questions about their culinary inspiration, their favourite dishes, and much more.
Ombretta and Filippo, how would you describe your cooking style?
We serve traditional Italian cuisine at La Leggenda dei Frati, with a modern innovative twist. With my cooking, I want to express as much as possible a lively Tuscan cuisine in which beauty comes not only from the food, but also from the harmony that results from the meeting between the dining room and kitchen, the chef, and the guests.
We believe that attention to networking and respect for nature is a sacred thing.
La Leggenda dei Frati
What is your favourite ingredient to work with?
The raw ingredients for me are like my beloved children. I cannot choose one and say that I love it more than another.
Who is one of your top suppliers or producers?
For us, the suppliers who help us with the accessories and details that make our restaurant unique are very important. For example, Montezemolo tailoring company for uniforms, ColleVica for our bespoke glasses and centerpieces, and the historic Aquaflor for the perfumes and sanitizing essences. I believe that attention to networking and respect for nature is a sacred thing. In my recipes I always try to use all the raw materials, without waste, respecting what the ancestors left us. I’m convinced that even in the kitchen you can give a good example for a better future.
What is the biggest challenge you’ve faced in your culinary career?
The biggest challenge I faced was becoming the owner of my own restaurant. It was the most rewarding experience.
Which gastronomic trend are you excited about the most?
The fight against waste and using ingredients that come from a healthy virtuous circle and respect for the territory is the most inspiring trend for me.
What’s one thing in the area that your guests absolutely need to see or do?
My restaurant La Leggenda dei Frati is located on Via Costa San Giorgio, near the Forte Belvedere, certainly one of the most beautiful views of the city. A 7-minute walk from the restaurant to the center of Florence will take you to the famous Ponte Vecchio.
Thank you, Ombretta & Filippo
Book your table at restaurant La Leggenda dei Frati
Try chef Ombretta Giovannini’s traditional Italian cuisine for yourself at restaurant La Leggenda dei Frati in Firenze, Italy. You can make your lunch or dinner reservation through our website, for an unforgettable culinary experience.