Rob's Typical Lunch

With the rain coming down non-stop, we thought we'd share one of the things the rain can't put a damper on - my typical lunch. Is it healthy? Who knows. But I swear by it.

Above, in the sandwich, is tomato, pecorino di pistoia, and finocchiona. In case you've never had finocchiona its a Tuscan speciality, salami made with fennel, which is found more or less all around Florence. The bread is ciabatta, from the bakery down the street.

Living in Florence: Mama's Bakery

Sometimes, you just want a club sandwich and a bagel with cream cheese. And when that craving hits, we head over to Mama's Bakery, the go-to spot for American food here in Florence. What I love about Mama's is that they make a lot of American classics, but execute them with the "fresh food" philosophy that is the way of life here in Florence.

I had to fight the urge to go back the very next day for another club sandwich. So good! Mama's Bakery is at via della Chiesa, 34/r, which is about a 2 minute walk from Santo Spirito.

Living in Florence: Sweet Treats

For as long as I can remember I've never been a dessert person, but ever since I moved to Italy I just can't seem to shake the need to have something sweet after every meal. Whether it's a quick trip to Il Pane di Via Romana for a freshly baked croissant or Gelateria della Passera for pomegranate gelato, I can't get enough sweets. Has anyone else experienced this after moving to Italy?

More Photos from Our Weekend

After our outing to Palazzo Strozzi, we walked around town even more on Saturday. Have you been to Bottega Quattro, a new shop near the Duomo? They carry amazing clothes, but what I LOVE most about the shop is how it's styled. It's seriously one of the most beautiful shops I've ever seen!

As we headed back toward our apartment, we decided to make a slight detour and finally try a little restaurant we'd been eyeing up that sells beef stew in bread bowls. They were delicious! I'll try to remember to jot down the name and address next time we walk by! This is Rob, pigging out on what was left of my bread bowl...

And yes, the sky really has been this blue lately...

Living in Florence: Brunch at Volume Cafe

There comes a time in every American-in-Italy's life abroad when they say "Seriously, I just want some damn french toast." That happened to both Rob and I yesterday and we had no clue where to find a good 'ol fashioned brunch at a reasonable price. We considered going to The Diner (which I like, and is a decent spot), but didn't feel like making the trek there. So, we gave up and made our way to our favorite cafe, Volume, in Santo Spirito.

We were there for about an hour when a couple sitting a few tables down was brought the most amazing brunch platter. Eggs! Bacon! French toast! Orange Juice! It was a brunch sampler; a great Italian take on the American brunch. Rob ordred two plates on the spot. Our review? It was glorious...all of the typical brunch foods, but in small portions. We left feeling full, but not stuffed. And, at 10 euro per plate, it didn't break the bank.

Want to try out Volume's brunch? It's offered most Sundays between 11a.m.-2p.m. Piazza Santo Spirito, 5r. We'll see you there.