Make your bland bottle and cork Your wine in center of Florence

Imagine strolling through Florence’s elegant streets, tasting expertly curated Tuscan delicacies, and ending the evening in the cozy kitchen of a local chef. For $150.39 per person, this gourmet tasting tour and dinner offers nearly two hours of immersive food and wine experiences led by knowledgeable guides. The tour begins in the lively Piazza Santa Maria Novella and takes you through some of Florence’s finest culinary spots, culminating in a private home where a three-course, home-cooked regional dinner awaits.

What makes this experience stand out? First, the personalized small-group setting — just eight people — ensures you won’t be lost in a crowd, and the guides’ expertise adds layers of insight you won’t find in typical tourist fare. Second, the combination of tasting extra virgin olive oils, black and white truffles, foie gras, and regional wines like Chianti and Carmignano makes this a true taste-bud adventure.

A potential consideration? The tour’s timing starts at 4:00 pm, so it’s best suited for those with flexible afternoon schedules who want to unwind after sightseeing. If you’re keen on learning about Florence’s culinary heritage but prefer a relaxed, intimate setting, this tour hits the sweet spot. It’s particularly perfect for food lovers who appreciate the craftsmanship behind Tuscan specialties and enjoy small, engaging groups.

Key Points

• Authentic Experience: Small group ensures personal service and a genuine vibe.
• Culinary Diversity: Tasting includes wines, oils, truffles, foie gras, and regional appetizers.
• Expert Guides: Knowledgeable guides with a passion for Florence’s food culture.
• Home Dinner: A private, three-course dinner at a local chef’s home for a cozy, authentic finale.
• Rich Context: Learn about the history and science behind truffles, olive oils, and wines.
• Great Value: Combines multiple tasting stops, a personalized bottle of wine, and a gourmet dinner for a fair price.

A Welcome Introduction in Piazza Santa Maria Novella

Starting in the historic heart of Florence, we meet our guide — who, in the reviews, is described as both knowledgeable and friendly. The tour kicks off around 4 PM, giving us the perfect late afternoon activity that matches Florence’s golden light. From the outset, the focus is on delivering an authentic taste of Tuscany—not just the usual Italian tourist spots, but the hidden gems favored by locals.

Our first stop is a historic shop where we sample a white truffle sandwich, foie gras, and wild salmon, paired with a glass of reserve Prosecco. The guide explains the science and history behind truffles, emphasizing how these prized tubers are only found in certain regions and cannot be cultivated, making their aroma and flavor even more special. The reviews praise the guide’s friendly demeanor and wealth of knowledge, making the experience both educational and fun.

Exploring Florence’s Elegant Streets and Historic Shops

Strolling along Florence’s fashion district—famous for its stylish boutiques—adds an element of elegance to the tour. We stop at a historic shop that’s been around for generations, tasting some of the finest extra virgin olive oils. The oils are presented with care, allowing us to appreciate their nuanced flavors and aroma. Many reviews highlight how this tasting elevates the common olive oil experience into something special, especially when combined with a bit of bread or regional cheese.

Crossing the Ponte Vecchio, we take in spectacular views of the Arno River and Florence’s skyline, making the journey feel as much like sightseeing as it is a culinary adventure. Our guide shares stories about Florence’s culinary evolution, adding depth to each tasting.

The Heart of the Tour: Gourmet Tastings and Regional Wines

The tour’s focus on Tuscan DOC wines like Chianti and Carmignano offers insight into Italy’s wine classification system, and we’re encouraged to enjoy each sip slowly. The winemaker’s presentation makes the tasting educational—understanding how the wines are made and what makes them unique.

The olive oil tasting at a historic palazzo is a highlight, showcasing premium oils that are crafted with care. The oils are paired with bread and regional ingredients, emphasizing local craftsmanship. This is a chance to really taste the difference quality olive oil makes in Italian cuisine.

The Cozy Home Dinner: A Personal and Tasty Finale

The last part of the experience takes us to the private home of a local chef, Chef Vary, where we gather for a three-course dinner that feels like dining at a friend’s house. Guests rave about the delicious, well-executed dishes, and the reviews confirm that Chef Vary and her husband are fantastic hosts who make everyone feel at home.

The menu, while not explicitly listed, includes regional specialties that are described as gourmet and thoughtfully prepared. The small group size means we have plenty of opportunity to chat with the chef and other guests, making this a warm, intimate gathering.

The Value of the Experience

At $150.39, the price includes a personalized bottle of wine, labeling, bottled water, and tools to blend your wine — a unique touch that makes the experience more tangible. Plus, the small group size means high-quality interactions and less rush.

The reviews emphasize the excellent value—you get multiple tastings, an engaging guide, and a delicious dinner all in one evening. While the experience is non-refundable, the reviews suggest that it’s well worth the cost for those seeking a genuine, local flavor of Florence.

This experience is ideal for culinary enthusiasts wanting to learn about Tuscan food and wine in a relaxed setting. It’s perfect if you’re after a small-group, intimate tour that combines tasting, education, and home-cooked food. Given the timing and the focus on local flavors, it suits those who enjoy delivering a bit of time to their evening and don’t mind a casual, smart casual dress code.

Travelers who love authentic experiences—especially food lovers eager to hear stories from locals—will find this tour especially rewarding. It’s also a good choice for those seeking a memorable, hands-on dinner that’s more than just dining out.

How long does the tour last?
The experience lasts approximately 1 hour and 45 minutes, starting at 4:00 pm and ending back at the meeting point.

What is included in the price?
The tour includes wine tastings, olive oil and truffle tastings, a professional winemaker presentation, a personalized bottle of wine with labeling, bottled water, and tools to blend your wine.

Are food and drinks included besides wine?
Yes, the tasting stops include regional appetizers like truffle bruschetta, foie gras, wild salmon, and the three-course dinner at a private home.

What is the maximum group size?
Only eight travelers are allowed per booking, ensuring a small, personal experience.

Is this suitable for children?
The minimum age is 18 years, so it’s geared toward adults, especially those interested in wine and gourmet foods.

Where does the tour start and end?
The tour begins at Tuscan Taste, Via Romana 41r Rosso, Florence, and concludes at the same meeting point.

What should I wear?
A smart casual dress code is recommended, suitable for a relaxed yet refined environment.

For anyone yearning for a genuine taste of Florence’s culinary soul, this tour offers an intimate, educational, and delicious journey. You’ll walk away not only with a deeper understanding of Tuscan food and wine but also with a personalized bottle to remember the experience. The small-group format ensures personal attention, making it ideal for those who prefer authentic, hands-on experiences over cookie-cutter tours.

If you’re passionate about fine wines, regional specialties, and local family stories, then this tour is likely to be a highlight of your Florence trip. The pleasant guides, well-curated tastings, and home-cooked dinner combine to create a memorable evening that’s both fun and full of flavor.

Note: Be sure to book well in advance, as this experience tends to fill up 95 days ahead.