Musa – the First Charcuterie Museum in Italy.

The first charcuterie museum in Italy, “MUSA”, introduces its visitors to multiple aspects, stages and perspectives of traditional meat curing process. Founded in 2013, the three story building is located in Castelnuovo Rangone, Modena, Italy right next to the headquarters of Villani Salami plant – the oldest and biggest regional salami producing company, which has been sustaining the craft of charcuterie producing for over 120 years. Throughout the galleries of the museum building, its multimedia booths, glassy models and other thematic images visitors are brought into the atmosphere of gastronomic heritage and of meat gourmet preparation all across Italy. The itinerary incorporates ten major parts maintaining a balanced mix of the practical side of sliced-ham making along with the spirit and the pride artisans take in their work.

A Tribute to the History of Charcuterie

With the opening of Museo della Salumeria the commune of Castelnuovo Rangone (MO) pays tribute to the Villani S.p.A – a family-owned charcuterie production business existing since 1886, currently exporting cured meat to over fifty countries around the world. The gallery hallways feature the memorable images of historical tools, techniques and artifacts used in the old times for curing salami, mortadella and many other renowned culinary delights. As time shows, the salami-making process cannot be fully replaced by advanced technologies and modern equipment. The successful combination of novelty coordinated with manual approach and professional human skills is what makes the Italian-made charcuterie a one-of-a-kind delicacy.

Inside the Museum: Aesthetical and Educational Value

The visit course is divided into ten different sections each covering a particular aspect of the meat preparation process: curing, braising, trussing, slicing and more. The 3D crystal mock-ups of trussed meat on display, hanging platters of flowery cold cuts and other descriptive imagery convey the concept and culture of the multistage cooking course. Apart from getting impressed by the appetizing interior design, guests can gain knowledge about the various phases of the famous salami making. Throughout the course of years evolution of the product can be traced; the global tendency of healthy lifestyle in today’s world has imprinted itself in the manufacturing of the cold cuts as well: sliced ham contains less salt and fat complying with international food standards. By following the historical thread of the charcuterie evolution one gets the impression of what stands behind the legendary gastronomic delight: technique and precision side-by-side with passionate appreciation and dedication to work. Visitors expressing real-time interest to the cooking details may be armed with practical knowledge by gaining it from videos, textbooks and other visual aids available in respective halls – guidelines and old recipes are offered for public use.

Tastings and Social Events

Besides getting acquainted with the museum itinerary through texts and films, guests are welcome to take action by participating in guided tours, tastings and social themed gatherings. Gastronomic workshops are available upon request and the production department of salami Villani factory is open for visits as well for groups of at least 10 visitors

Holiday Shopping Spree Designer Outlets in Florence

Shopping in Italy has always been a tempting pastime for tourists and locals, with Florence being one of the most alluring destinations. For Gucci, Prada and other prestigious fashion brands’ hunters who cannot afford shopping for latest designs in the new collections, driving 30 to 90 minutes away from the city for discounted voguish garments could be the ultimate solution. Outlets on the outskirts of Florence and all around Tuscany are long acknowledged for their versatility of affordable upmarket goods and haute couture brands.
Details on location, brands and overall information on most of the trendy destinations can be found below:

The Mall (Designer Outlet Mall in Tuscany) — Prada outlet in Florence – source

Factory Outlet Shopping Malls

PRADA –also known as Space Outlet, it is located within 60 minutes car drive south of Florence at Strada Statale 69, Levanella Spacceo Montevarchi. Though finding the place might be challenging for first-time visitors, the trip is definitely worth it: being one of the most popular factory outlets, it is a perfect destination for Prada fans. Last years’ collections of clothing, shoes and accessories include items by various store lines such as Miu Miu, Jill Sander, Church. Prices may drop up to 75% during sales and special promotion times.

THE MALL – with 30 minutes’ drive from Florence by car through A1 freeway (Via Europa 8, Leccio – Reggello), thus far, this place has been one of the most famous and visited Factory outlets. Multiple stores include Italian top-selling brands such as Gucci, Dior, Amrani, Valentino, as well as international ones like Burberry, Yves Saint Laurent, Alexander McQueen and more. Discounts vary from 30% and up depending on the season and the item on sale.

DOLCE E GABBANA – situated in close proximity to the Mall outlet on Via S.Maria Maddalena, 49 Incisa in Val d’Arno, the two-story building contains earlier collections and sales remains of the brand footwear, clothes and lingerie. Special promotions of items previously sold in boutiques and designer stores are available as well.

Outlet Villages and Designer Malls

BARBERINO – the relatively new designer outlet can be reached within 40 minute car drive off the A1 highway heading up north Florence, in the “Sieve” Valley. With over 100 boutiques, the open-air shopping center planning was influenced by the Renaissance architecture, its layout being a combination of fashion and historic culture. A wide array of branded goods can be found, including Calvin Klein, Prada, Lacoste, Polo Ralph Laurent, Coccinelle and many more.

VALDICHIANA – for those pursuing an extensive shopping experience, the Valdichiana outlet village, which is an hour’s car drive from Florence, should be the right place to go. A spacious complex with paved walkways, children’s playgrounds and over 130 stores combine a wide assortment of high fashion brands of domestic and international origin. Discounts on numerous goods labelled Baldanini, Gaudi, Timberland, Guess, Swatch etc. are valid all year round.

Premium Brands’ Outlets

FENDI The luxurious outlet is dedicated entirely to Fendi product lines from eyewear to shoes, posh bags and clothing. Bargain prices on last years’ collections are reduced by 30% and some items are being sold at 60% discounts in the sales season.

ROBERTO CAVALLI The outlet is featuring authentic fashion items by the world leading from previous collections. Glamorous outfit, small accessories and other wearables are available at astounding prices saving up to 75% of the original cost. Located north-east of Florence on Via Volturno 3, close to the IKEA building, it takes only 20 minutes of car driving from Florence.

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The winter and the summer sales seasons occur twice a year – from mid-January till mid-March and from mid-July till mid-September, respectively. It is recommended to arrive at the opening hours to avoid the hassle of waiting in lines. Besides driving by car, there are always options for ordering shuttles, booking guided tours or using a combination of taxi and public transportation.

Shopping tour from Florence.

Our company would be delighted to organise a shopping outlet tour from Florence for you party. We can pick you from your hotel in Florence brand new air-conditioned mini van. The fashion tours are fully customisable according your schedule and requirements.

Florence to Cinque Terre: an Easy Day Tour by Car

Tourists who visit Florence often use the chance to stop by proximate towns and villages renowned for their cultural value. Day tripping from Florence to Cinque Terre, which is located high on the Italian Riviera, is a popular route for those wishing to appreciate the scenery, exclusive architecture and historic background of the Five Lands.
The journey from the capital of Tuscany to Cinque Terre should take about three hours if made by train. On the way, it is possible to stop by two other locations: San Miniato – a notable commune in the Pisa province and Siena – an ancient Tuscan city rich with art and cultural traditions.

The Cinque Terre – five lands on top of the Italian Riviera

The five Mediterranean villages – Manarola, Corniglia, Monterosso, Vernazza and Riomaggiore – rest on a pebbly coastline characterized by steep ground. Unique views of the stone-wall network – an admirable result of concentrated human work, alongside with the surrounding natural abundance make the main attraction of the area. Aspired for its splendor setting, Cinque Terre presents a rare combination of wildlife and antique buildings with grape terraces. Sloppy terrain, fishermen boats, local wine and salted anchovies all contribute to the memorable atmosphere. Each village has its special point of interest – Maranola, for example, being the oldest of the five villages, is distinctive with the biggest lighted nativity in the world activated during the months of December and January.

view from San Miniato Florence — Florence from Abbazia di San Miniato al Monte

San Miniato: between Pisa and Florence

Located in the Arno River valley San Miniato is famous for its ancient fortresses and cathedrals as well as modern cultural entertainments. One of the most prominent events is the annual White Truffle Festival taking part in late October and November during the season of these exquisite delicacies. For gourmet fans, wine-tasting and truffle-hunting guided tours followed by meals are excellent opportunities to enjoy real-time experience and acquire knowledge about the local traditional cuisine.
Besides culinary attractions, social venues and cultural heritage can be found around the city as well. For example, Prato del Duomo is an upraised square enclosed by impressive buildings, such as the Bishop’s palace or Palazzo dei Vicari and the Cathedral. Bordering the Cathedral is the Diocesan Museum which offers a collection of artworks demonstrated in chronological order and accompanied by annotations. The famous Tower of Frederick II named after the Emperor is another worthy location offering an outstanding bird’s-eye view from its top, which covers the entire Arno River Valley and its surroundings.

Siena – the medieval city of Tuscany

Valued for its historical center, the capital city of the province of Siena is abundant with prestigious buildings dating back to the Middle Ages. Piazza del Campo – the shell-shaped main town square, recognized for its exquisite beauty comprises two main constructions: the Mangia Tower and the Palazzo Pubblico. To get a sense of Siena air, visitors can explore both buildings with an all-inclusive ticket which permits access to the Civic Museum and the Mangia Tower with its stunning panoramic scenery.
For those seeking family-friendly outdoor attractions combined with dining, the Orto de ‘Pecci restaurant would be a favorable choice. Encircled by vast greenery and speckled by fruit trees, completed by an orchard and a small animal farm, this nature site makes a perfect setting for a peaceful lunch break. If you are looking for a tourist guide in Siena also check this page.

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Visitors arrive in Maranola, which is the first of the five Terre, may later continue to the other villages by foot, car or train. For tourists without a vehicle and those who do not wish to use public transportation private chauffeured tours can be organised by Emilia Delizia.

The Most Amazing B&B is a Tower in Bologna Italy

The Prendiparte tower is a medieval tower in Bologna (one of the few remaining) that offers accommodation to those looking for something truly exclusive. The tower has only one double bedroom and the rent include exclusive use of the entire tower including the access to the top terrace to admire Bologna by day and night. Emilia Delizia can combine the stay at Prendiparte tower with our famous gourmet tour, cooking classes or a private chef who comes to the accommodation and prepare an amazing meal for the ultimate romantic dinner. So if you are looking for the ultimate romantic stay in Italy look no further than the Prendiparte Tower.

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6 Amazing Excursions around Florence

Are you searching for a day trip from Florence? In that case, there are a lot of available destinations. Florence is well situated, allowing you quick access to the countryside or to destinations replete with a rich history. Below we’ve listed some of our favorite day trips easily reachable from Florence with minimal hassle.

Piazza del Campo, Siena — Siena is just amazing – source

Wine and cheese tours from Florence.

Chianti

The Chianti wine region is a must see destination for any wine fan! Beautiful landscapes, sophisticated tasting events, and much to see are available at only half an hour’s drive to the south of the city. Although more crowded than other wine regions in the area, there is a reason for this: the vineyards in villages like Panzano and San Casciano are incredible!

Orcia Valley

Of course, if you want to skip the touristy sections of Chianti and the crowds, then you cannot do much better than visiting the Orcia Valley, or Val d’Orcia. This region is considered one of the most beautiful countrysides in the world, and is part of the UNESCO’s World Cultural Landscapes. The different villages, vineyards, and farms in this region provide an unforgettable experience. Some of the best food in the world is concentrated in this beautiful valley, with cheeses, wines, and meat that are unrivaled. Unfortunately, getting to Orcia Valley from Florence is quite a bit more difficult than a day trip to Chianti. While Chianti is at a mere 30-minute drive, the Orcia Valley is two hours away and unreachable by train. A great option in this case may be to hire a driver, with many packages available for interested connoisseurs.

Montepulciano and Montalcino

These two beautiful towns are essential viewing for wine lovers. Montalcino is home of Brunello di Montalcino, considered by many as the best wine this country has to offer. Montepulciano produces Vino Nobile di Montepulciano, a wine that has been produced since Medieval times. The scenery and sampling of local cheeses and wines is an unforgettable experience.

Tours to historical towns.

Lucca

The architectural wonders are not limited to Florence itself. Only an hour west of Florence you will find beautiful Lucca. This city, replete with palaces, old roads, churches, and forts, provides a wonderful experience for walking or even biking. Fans of the opera will also want to visit Lucca since it is the birthplace of Puccini!

Pisa

No visit to the region would be complete without a visit to the Leaning Tower of Pisa (you will definitely want to get a photo of this spectacular attraction, which is unbelievable when seen up close and in person. However, once you see the Leaning Tower, there is still plenty to see in Pisa. The city is replete with beautiful Renaissance and Medieval art. There are also wonderful palaces and the Baptistery of Pisa, all of which are well worth the visit. You can usually include a visit to Lucca along with a day trip to Pisa, which is reachable through the high speed train. It’s usually a good idea to visit Pisa in the evening, to avoid the crowds (just check the closing times for the different attractions in this city.)

Siena

Siena has one of the most beautiful churches in Europe, with art by masters like Bernini, Donatello, and Michelangelo. The frescoes in the library are also absolutely stunning. The Siena piazza has an impressive tower from the fourteenth century. There is also plenty to see, from incredible frescoes and religious iconography to the head of St. Catherine, on display at her birthplace! You can usually see the most important sights in Siena in three to four hours with the help of a guide. Thanks to its location, it is possible to visit Siena and the Chianti wine region in the same day.

Istria an untouched gourmet destination on the Mediterranean

According to the Irish Independent, Croatian cuisine continues to soar in global popularity. In fact, the former Yugoslav Republic’s coastline is an untapped haven for tourists and fine dining aficionados. For those lucky enough to discover the northern peninsula of Istria, an oasis of serenity and five star restaurants awaits. While Dubrovnik and Split have traditionally catered to holiday guests, Istria is now the premier gourmet destination for locals and visitors alike. Over the years, Croatia has become synonymous with world class chefs and mouth watering food. Whether for business or pleasure, the Croatian countryside offers a culinary and sightseeing experience like no other.

In Istria you will indulge in eating Fish

Istria is blanketed by local eateries and unsuspecting dining establishments. These, of course, are set to a backdrop of captivating architecture and sunsets. Whether you are in the mood for fine wine or mouth watering dishes, this hidden gem of the Mediterranean simply has it all. The northern peninsula is also home to a number of small motels and cottages. This is perfect for weekend getaways or for extended family trips. Like the magic of the Adriatic Sea, Istria simply soothes the soul with captivating and compelling scenery. Whether traveling from Dublin or the North, this marvel of the Mediterranean will dazzle your senses and taste buds.

Istria captures the true allure and essence of the exotic Balkans. This is especially true when it comes to its selection of local and regional cuisine. From home made olive oil to black truffles and sea bass, there are countless delicacies and scrumptious entrees available. The Italian influence has also propelled the Croatian wine market to heights never before seen. In fact, Istria’s wineries can easily compete with the finest establishments in Paris and Venice. Whether you crave deep red or sparkling white wines, these tantalizing beverages are must with any meal or snack.

For the kids, Istria offers plenty of fun filled activities. This includes boat rides, along with seaside artists that specialize in portraits. Like other Croatian cities, Istria has a vibrant nightlife consisting of bars with ocean views. This is perfect for couples that want to dance the night away to their favorite tunes. There are even restaurants that feature candlelight dinners for a more romantic and relaxed atmosphere. When it comes to visiting Croatia, don’t waste your time on overcrowded hotels and saturated nightspots in Zagreb. Simply rent a car and take a nice scenic drive up the coast. If you love good food and want to experience Mother Nature at her finest, Istria will truly achieve your desired results.

Fazana in Istria Capital of the grilled Sardin

Organic Olive Oil Importer in the United Kingdom.

Emilia Delizia is an official importer and distributor of the Siculum organic PDO olive oils from Sicily, if you are looking for an excellent new product for your shop, deli or chain of stores and you are based in the UK, we would love to arrange a tasting with one of tour representatives and make you discover this incredible product.

All secrets of D.O.P. Siculum Extra virgin Olive Oil

The story of Cugnata family and olive oil production started in the fifties when Vito Cugnata founded the farm Villa Ponte in Chiaramonte Gulfi countryside, in the province of Ragusa. Today run by Silvana and Giovanni Cugnata, the farm consists of 30 hectars of land cultivated with 2500 trees of the Tonda Iblea olive variety.

The flavourful extra virgin olive oil produced in the Villa Ponte farm has been named Siculum and is excellent on seafood, pasta, meat and vegetables. After the D.O.P. recognition, the Siculum olive oil has received many national and international prizes and honorable mentions at numerous competitions from 2002 to nowadays.

Features of Siculum DOP Extra Virgin Olive Oil.

Because of its exclusive aroma, you would hardly forget a meal where the main dishes have been dressed with this special green-golden olive oil. Delicate on the mouth as you first taste it, it will leave a sweet aroma balanced with notes of herbs and fruits.

The Secrets Behind a Good Olive Oil.

Cugnata family is determined to produce an oil that sells well. To do this you can’t escape from the basic rules lying behind its production. But the very best moment of the whole process, comes before the pressure. The hand picking method and consecutive pressure within 24 hour, are the key factors that allow to keep all olives organoleptic properties.
Then follows an accurate estraction with the dedicated presses and a perfect storage in appropriate stainless steel tanks certificated AISI 304 to preserve all olive oil flavor and taste.

Flavoured Olive Extra Virgin Olive Oils.

Villa Ponte also produce innovative and modern olive oils flavored with the amazing citrus fruits. In the range you will find extra virgin olive oil flavoured with Sicilian mandarins, lemons and and oranges. You can add a touch of freshness and Mediterranean zest to your salads or marinades.

The King of Mediterranean Diet.

In general, it is a good thing to follow a Mediterranean diet rich of fruit and vegetables to keep you healthy. What is more, it is demonstrated that monounsaturated fat helps to maintain good conditions when people are affected from heart diseases, diabetes, Alzheimers and cancers.

For this reason, you should always prefer to dress salads with olive oil and use it in all recipes rather then butter, also to prevent any disease. Buying Siculum extra virgin olive oil is the best choice for the whole family.

Interested in this product? Please get in touch.

Small Group Tour

1) Orginal 3 gourmet food tour

From Modena: 165 euros per person at least 3 people booking (departure at approx 8.15 am return at 3 pm)

From Bologna: 185 euros per person for at least 3 people & 165 per person for at least 4 people (departure at approx 7.30 am return at 4 pm)

From Parma: 185 euros per person for at least 3 people & 165 per person for at least 4 people (departure at approx 8.15 am return at 3 pm)

Coming to Modena? It takes only 20 minutes from Bologna by train.

Are you driving your own car?
Escorted tour with your own car 125 euros per person
http://www.emiliadelizia.com/bolognaparma-food-tour-car/

2) Organic winery 2 gourmet foods + farmer gourmet brunch

Available from Modena or Bologna 2 best gourmet food plus a delicious cheese and ham brunch – taste all in one morning

http://www.emiliadelizia.com/2-gourmet-food-tour-farmer-brunch/

If we provide transport:

From Modena: 165 euros per person at least 3 people booking (departure at approx 8.15 am return at 3 pm)
From Bologna: 180 euros per person for at least 3 people & 165 per person for at least 4 people (departure at approx 7.30 am return at 4 pm)

If we do not provide transport:

Escorted tour with your own car 145 euros per person
http://www.emiliadelizia.com/bolognaparma-food-tour-car/

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This tour is shorter and panoramic tour with less distance involved compared to the Parma Tour.
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3) Cookery classes at the organic farm with 2 gourmet food tour
A Tour to the 2 gourmet food (Balsamic and Parmesan) plus a pasta making class + organic farmer’s brunch

From Modena: group of 3 People 240 euros per person – 2 gourmet food tour + cooking class at the organic farm or 200 per person for a group of 4 people.

Fast track and last minute booking:

Our tours get booked up quickly If you want to reserve a spot on a tour, please buy a voucher for 100 euros from the site.

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Who is Dario Cecchini? The Butcher of Panzano in Chianti

Are you visiting Tuscany any time soon? If yes, watching a butcher at work may not be at the top of your itinerary but we recommend that you take the chance anyway. Dario Cecchini is not just the most famous butcher in Tuscany. He has been referred to as the world’s greatest butcher and it’s easy to see why when you watch him at work with his various knives and cleavers. He practically transforms the act of butchering into an art. He has been known to attract such personalities as Jack Nicholson, Bruce Springsteen and other such greats. People travel from near and far to watch him in small shop. With only 2 rooms in his shop, you will be lucky to get a spot.

Oh Dario! — Dario the Butcher seem to be very popular – source

His butchery is typical of any Italian butcher only better. All around, on counters, there are different cuts of meat that have been prepared in different ways depending on how they are supposed to be cooked. You will see seasoned meatballs, stuffed pork loin and many more. Dario doesn’t stop there. He ensures that every visitor who goes to see him gets a taste of some meat and some red wine. As you watch him preparing different meats, his small staff walks around handing everyone something to eat and drink.

Dario didn’t get started as a butcher. It runs in his family, with 6 generations before him making a living from this humble trade. He intended to become a vet and even went to veterinarian school to learn the skills of the trade. Life had other plans for him though and they were to transform his life forever. His father, who was a butcher, died suddenly and Dario had to step in and take over the business so as to be able to continue to provide his family with a livelihood. He did prove that he had a knack dealing with meat but vet studies didn’t go to waste. To this day, he ensures humane treatment of animals before they are killed and butchered.

So what makes him so different from other butchers? This famous butcher from Panzano in Chianti sets himself apart through his personality. He is open and welcoming and don’t be surprised if you walk into his shop and he stops what he is doing, cleans himself up and comes out from behind the counter to envelop you in a giant hug. At the same time, he can sometimes be heard reciting lines from Dante’s Inferno as he works. He enriches the lives of those around him with some kind of happy magic that comes from within.

Business has been good. From the 2 room butcher shop, he was able to open an art gallery next door, a Solociccia restaurant across the street. He has also utilized the top and the back of his shop to open 2 restaurants in one. During the day, you can enjoy a juicy MacDArio and if you come back in the night you will find Officina della Bistecca which can only be described as a carnivore’s haven and before each night starts, you will hear Dario shout a poignant question: to beef or not to beef? That is the question.

The Chianti area is also renowned for its wine, you can easily tour wineries with your own car or by a chauffeured mini van if you are travelling with your family or a group.

Going to Florence? Eat Bistecca alla Fiorentina

If you will be travelling to Florence anytime soon, you should prepare your palate for the delight that is Bistecca alla Fiorentina. What makes this meat dish so special is that it is made from only one ingredient; meat alone. It is a T-bone steak that’s at least 3 fingers thick. The meat isn’t from just any cow; it comes from Chianina cows which are found in Tuscany. Because the diet of the cows affects the taste of the meat, they are fed on very specific grasses that grow in the region and nothing else. The cows are left to wander free where only these grasses grow. They are usually slaughtered at the age of 2 years which means that the meat is very tender.

過癮!! — Bistecca alla fiorentina – source

Bistecca alla Fiorentina stems from a centuries old tradition. It came about during celebrations to honor one of the Medici family which ruled for 200 years since the 13th century, Lorenzo de Medici. During the festivities, crowds would gather in the streets around fires and roast large chunks of meat. The tradition was easy to pass down because there were no additional ingredients to confuse people. Today, the meat is in the form of a T-bone steak that is prepared carefully over hot coals.

The quality of a Bistecca alla Fiorentina is determined by the quality of meat. It has to be very tender and it has to be ringed with a little fat. If you decide to prepare this little treat yourself, make sure that the T-bone steak that you choose has a lot of fillet – some butchers trim off fillet to make an extra buck. The best grilling results are achieved with woods such as ash and oak which add a special flavor and aromas to the meat. You don’t need to add salt or oil during the grilling process but once the steak is served, it can be sprinkled with a little olive oil and seasoning. This doesn’t mean that the meat needs any help – it is delicious just without olive oil or seasoning.

Grilling a Bistecca alla Fiorentina is a two step process. First, when the grill has become very hot the meat is placed on it for between 3 and 5 minutes. This is to harden the surface so that it can hold the juices in. After a crust forms, reduce the coals so that you have less heat for passive cooking. The meat is placed on the grill bone first and then roasted slowly. Traditionally, it is eaten rare but there is no reason why you cannot cook it until it is well done if that’s how you like your meat. It is usually served with baked potatoes and red wine.

If you plan to eat Bistecca alla Fiorrentina in a restaurant, you are better off getting recommendations from locals. Although many serve it, there are some that have distinguished themselves for serving excellent quality cuts. In some restaurants, you will even be able to choose a cut yourself and then have it roasted. If you choose this option, make sure you have a lot of time to wait for your Bistecca alla Fiorentina to roast. And if you are cooking it by yourself you can check our guide how to cook bistecca alla Fiorentina.