Welcome to Il Fiorista (that’s “The Florist” in Italian). Would you like your sunflowers in a bouquet, in a delicious dip, or with rye whiskey? You will find all three and more at this restaurant, floral boutique, and community education space, which opened in New York City’s North Madison Square in September 2019. Here’s what to expect when you visit.
Floral Boutique
A round table laden with vases of fresh flowers greets you at the entrance of Il Fiorista, where you will also find the floral boutique. Peruse the cedar shelves of home, kitchen, and wellness goods curated by owner Alessandra de Benedetti, who founded the business with her husband Mario. Or, take advantage of the full range of floral-arranging services. Floral Director Mindy Cardozo, who once interned for Saipua and who previously flowered the New York restaurants Estela and Café Altro Paradiso, hand picks the flower selection from local farms.
Floral-Inspired Bar & Restaurant
Grab a stool at the marble-top bar to enjoy the floral-inspired cocktail menu by mixologist Gates Otsuji. Remember that sunflower drink we mentioned earlier? That would be the Drunken Sunflower made with rye whiskey, toasted sunflower, popcorn shoots, and turmeric. The bar also offers Italian, French, and American wines chosen by owner Mario for taste and quality as well as the wineries’ sustainable practices.
Now, for the main course. Executive Chef Garrison Price’s seasonal Mediterranean menu incorporates an array of healthful, flavorful edible flowers. Examples include Spot Prawns with bok choy and hibiscus harissa; Duck Cappellacci with rose petal pasta, beets, Swiss chard, and pink peppercorns; and Seeded Crackers with sunflower dip, petals, and shoots.
Flower Classes
Last but not least is The Flower Room at Il Fiorista, where you can take classes ranging from DIY bouquet-making to edible flowers 101. Combined with flower-filled food, drink, and shopping, these fun educational opportunities make it a destination not to miss next time you are in New York City.
Find Il Forista at 17 W. 26th Street, New York, New York 10010. Reservations available via Resy.
By Terri Robertson | Photography courtesy of Il Fiorista
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