Pistoia is a beautiful, sophisticated, modern city in an ancient setting. There are wonderful old buildings…as you would expect.
My past visits to Pistoia have been day trips, but this time I stayed overnight. The city comes alive as the sun goes down. People are out walking, shopping and the restaurants begin to fill. The atmosphere is fun and vibrant.
Pistoians have an excellent selection of stylish shops. More investigation is needed.
The food markets are full of delicious things.
I was most fortunate to have the charming, beautiful and stylish Michela Ricciarella to show me her favourite things. She is a tour leader and has to be Pistoia’s best ambassador. She loves the city and knows it like the back of her hand.
Michele invited me to the family restaurant, Pollo d’Oro, Golden Chicken. The restaurant was begun by her husband, Stefano Parenti’s father, who famously brought the first rotisserie to Pistoia, hence the golden chickens.
The ground floor of the restaurant is modern and spacious. The cellar is more traditional and cosy.
We had a delicious pizza with fresh mozzarella, tomatoes and nduja, a spicy Sicilian salami on a great base. It is easy to see why the restaurant has been popular since its inception in 1962.
Thank you Michela for a wonderful time in Pistoia. I like that the city is not overrun with tourists. I saw just one group while I was there. The atmosphere is lively and fun and there is much to see and do…I could happily move in.
I can’t leave Pistoia without a visit to Cafe le Damier in Via della Madonna. They do the best pastries and coffee.
Look for Michela’s blog…http://passion4food4fashion.com She writes with love for her home town and her enthusiasm is infectious.
I stayed at a gorgeous B&B recommended by Michela. It is very close to the centre of town and is elegant and charming. Locanda San Marco…Via Porta San Marco, 28…http://locandasanmarco.com