Italy Segreta is headquartered in Florence, so yes, we are a little biased, but we think Florence and its surroundings boast one of Italy’s richest gastronomic cultures. The long-reigning, wealthy Medici family played a major role in the city’s culinary development: their patronage of the arts, sciences, and education extended to the culinary world, and under their patronage, Florence became a hub for gastronomic experimentation and culinary innovation.

They are the ones we can thank for the invention of Italians’ favorite summer treat, gelato, as well as the iconic bistecca alla fiorentina. Alongside the Medici was another strong force at play–that of the cucina povera, a focus on humble, local ingredients and thrifty “nothing is thrown away” mentality.