The perfect souvenir for the food-loving traveler? Slim bars of chocolate wrapped in paper patterned with groovy midcentury designs. Or a pale blue box tied with a satin ribbon, holding a treasure of pralines, caramels, and squares of dark chocolate. Vestri is a family-run establishment that has been turning out delicious chocolate creations for more than 30 years. The clan owns its own cocoa plantation in the Dominican Republic, which ensures the quality and ethical sourcing of its products. The shop also sells modern confections like white chocolate with salt and sesame, as well as sweets based on ancient Florentine recipes. Take decadence to the next level and indulge in a scoop of creamy gelato affogato, drowned in hot chocolate, while you shop.
PRESSPHOTO Firenze Vestri cioccolata Foto Gianluca Moggi/New Press Photo
Gianluca Moggi
PRESSPHOTO Firenze, Gelateria Vestri foto Gianluca Moggi/New Press Photo
Gianluca Moggi
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Saying "I Do" to Vestri's Affogato
If you love gelato and chocolate, no place will romance you quite like Vestri. Before you know what’s inside, you’ll be drawn in by the antique and elegant exterior and by the shiny packages peeking out. Inside, the small shop’s allure consists of the Tiffany-like boxes, the smell of its high quality chocolate products (processed on the family’s own farm), and the warm lighting. You will swoon looking at the menu and fall deeply in love when you taste any of Vestri’s affogati. Affogato means “drowned” in Italian, but for those who have experienced Vestri, it conjures up images of gelato swimming in hot chocolate. Gelato flavors include hazelnut, ginger, rum, and orange. But even as you fall madly in love with the affogati, don’t forget about your other chocolate friends: Vestri makes truffles, pralines, and other decadent treats as well.
