Mario and Alessandra De Benedetti, both of whom were born and raised in Italy, share a keen appreciation of nature and good food. Combiningthese passions, the couple began developing an interest in the nutritiona and emotional benefits of flowers and herbs.

When the De Bennedettis relocated from Milan to New York about five years ago, they realized a dream by creating a flower-centric space in the middle of Manhattan’s NoMad neighborhood. Il Fiorista (in Italian, “the florist”) is more than a restaurant. This virtual culinary garden also houses a floral boutique and an educational center.