What had been your first impressions once you arrived?
It’s a complete shock to hit upon this all-wood, Scandi-chic minimalist but inviting house surrounded by nondescript residence blocks in a residential suburb of southeastern Florence. There’s a wraparound counter seating 12 and a tiny kitchen the place cooks Antonio Badalamenti and Andrea Magnelli (with the assistance of sous chef Andrea) deftly sear fish and meat on the robata grill, put together sauces, expertly style sushi, and serve prospects, chatting whereas they work. There are additionally three small tables within the room, however the enjoyable place to take a seat is upfront on the counter: with house so restricted, it is advisable guide effectively upfront.
What’s the gang like?
Mostly curious, food-savvy locals; the situation, manner off-radar in a residential suburb within the southeast of the town, will delay all however essentially the most dedicated foodie vacationers. It’s relaxed, straightforward, and informal the place the meals is the principle participant right here.
What ought to we be ingesting?
The carefully-curated wine record options many French wines together with some uncommon selections from throughout Italy, and there’s a very good selection of champagne and different “bollicine” (glowing wines): costs begin at round 35 euros (round $40) a bottle.
Main occasion: the meals. Give us the lowdown—particularly what to not miss.
This Japanese sushi and fusion micro-restaurant has quick gained a loyal native following since opening in 2025. While there’s a sequence of ever-present signature dishes, a lot of the menu adjustments often in accordance with the season and market availability, and produce is sourced domestically wherever attainable. Breads, noodles, sauces, and so forth are made 100% in-house; the one factor they purchase is a killer wasabi. I ordered the eight-course omakase (“I leave it up to you”) menu and was significantly blown away by the white tuna (“alalunga”) carpaccio with asparagus, celery, algae, and “Nikkei dressing,” a steamed bao bun full of seared eggplant, pink cabbage, and mint in a teriyaki sauce, the super-fresh sushi ready on the counter by chef Magnelli (who honed his ability at Nobu London) and the improbable signature Thai black curry with milky-pale shreds of perfectly-cooked skate wing. A rice and citrus semifreddo served with a crunchy biscuit and tarragon sponge was a fittingly scrumptious near a exceptional meal. I can’t wait to return.
And how did the front-of-house people deal with you?
The front-of-house people are the three cooks themselves; they prep, fry, grill, stir, plate up, pour wine, serve meals, and chat with the purchasers all on the similar time. It’s a clean, expert, juggling act that they carry off superbly.
What’s the real-real on why we’re coming right here?
For a break from the Florentine norm, each when it comes to meals and the vibe, Ambar is considered one of my prime selections within the metropolis. The meals is excellent with menus that problem the palate and depart you already anticipating the following go to for extra surprises.