I love to spend a day in Florence. It is an easy trip from Bagni di Lucca so I do it often. Last week I had an extra reason to visit. I had heard there was an Australian bakery and cafe in Florence called Melaleuca.
Once I had visited Ponte Vecchio with its lovely views up and down the Arno, a must in Florence, I headed off to find Melaleuca.
The cafe is at 18 Via Lungarno delle Grazie, just past the Ponte Grazie, with a view of the Giardino Bardini on the other side of the river. Their signs are not ready yet. The cafe has only been open since August.
I met the charming owners, Chloe from Australia and Marco from Rome.
The interior is bright and cheerful.
They make their own cakes, biscuits,(they have lamingtons and melting moments) pastries and sourdough bread from locally sourced ingredients….their breakfasts look delicious.
The breakfast/brunch photos are from their site. I’m trying one of those next time.
I was very impressed with their toilet. They have green frogs painted on the wall. Many years ago a green frog took up residence in my bathroom. After several attempts to relocate it I finally had success when I took it to a local river.
I wish them well and I will certainly drop by when I am in Florence. Take a look at their menu.
After some exploring I found a favourite shop, Oggetti Contemporanei, that moved a while ago to a new location. I have been searching for it ever since. Just by chance I spotted the owner in the street and she pointed to the shop behind her.
This shop is where I bought Angela the cake stand! As well as quirky home wares She also has a small selection of clothing and accessories. I am very happy to have found the shop…I have another Angela to take home to Australia.
Here is Angela at Casa Debbio.
Wandering with no purpose in Florence is great. A walk across the Ponte Santa Trinita with its stunning statues on each corner offers a great view of Ponte Vecchio. By the afternoon the crowds have well and truly gathered on the bridge…go early in the morning for a better experience.
This crowded little shop in Borgo Santi Apostoli always brings a smile to my face.
I seems I am always running to catch my train with these distractions!