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Washed into Acqua Al 2 Singing in the rain
[Renee Gross]
Amidst drops of spitting rain and busted umbrellas strewn carelessly in puddles surrounding the Duomo, we braced ourselves for the worst. Florence had just been
through a day of torment brought on by Mother Nature in the form of thunderstorms
and treacherous winds. We moved quickly, scanning numerous street names until
we came upon Via Vigna Vecchia, a modest alleyway just before the Bargello museum.
Our luck was about to change as we stepped inside an acclaimed Florentine restaurant,
Acqua Al 2.
I had to look twice before realizing we had found the right restaurant. Acqua
Al 2 doesn’t fuss over flashy signs for ample limelight; if not for its publicity
in travel books and magazines a bewildered tourist would be likely to stumble
upon this treasure while fumbling with their flimsy map. A single wooden sign
painted with red and black letters hangs on a stone-grey façade. The wait staff
can be found hanging out on the outside stoop sharing smokes and stories before
the doors open around 7.30 pm. These humble beginnings proved rather deceptive;
despite arriving early we were quickly whisked inside to bask in dim golden lighting
and gaze at the turquoise stained glass windows. Lively jazz music accompanied
vivacious chatter as the second dining room began to fill-up. As eight o’clock
rolled around it became apparent that our clandestine dinner was not as secret
as we had initially imagined. Close proximity to two local theatres has created
additional appeal to the restaurant. White plates hanging in clusters adorning
the walls are autographed by famous Italians and American actors and singers that
have dined here after taking in a show. The rustic wooden tables are best for
an intimate group of friends, but accommodations are often made and reservations
are highly suggested. Half the beauty of Acqua Al 2 lies in the beauty of its
innovative and unchanging menu; one can get a taste of all things Italian. Highly
recommended is the Assaggio di Primi, consisting of five different pasta dishes
that are brought to your table piping-hot and fresh from the kitchen. Similar
samplers can be ordered with salads, cheeses, beefsteaks, and desserts (the tiramisu
is a must). Restaurant owner, Lucia, made her way to our table at the evenings
close to inquire about our favorite dishes. She nodded and smiled broadly as if
tallying in her head the numerous responses she’d received over the years. This
personal touch left us wanting to return and share the experience with friends
and family. Acqua
Al 2 first opened its doors in 1978; part of their long-standing success can
be attributed to this creative menu structure and a commitment to serving quality
meals to the trendy traveler. Due to praise from their customers, they have decided
to open a smaller café across the street in early May 2005.
MORE
http:www.acquaal2.it