In Conversation: Antonina’s Essential Guide to Florence

7 min read.

M: Florence is known for its rich culture of art and architecture, making it a very visually inspiring city. Which aspects or specific parts of the city do you find most inspiring?

AP: One of my favourite parts of Florence is San Nicolo. It was the first neighbourhood I lived in, and there's something almost secretive about it. It's a very local area, yet it exudes so much charm. From the peaceful Giardino delle Rose, where the views of the city feel almost otherworldly, to the cosy restaurants and bars that only those in the know frequent, it has a special energy.  San Nicolo feels like a hidden gem, full of stories waiting to be discovered.

M: Do you have a favourite café, restaurant, or hidden gem where you like to unwind or that you are attracted to as a creative space? 

AP: The Library Bar at Leone est. 1984 is a great find, perfect for a quiet aperitivo just around the corner of our Antonina Poppy Caffe Atelier. And Trattoria Sostanza, of course, is a must. 

M: Are there any local artisans, workshops, or boutiques in Florence that you admire or frequently visit for inspiration or just for fun?

AP: I’m lucky to be surrounded by talented artisans near Via del Porcellana, where Antonina Poppy is based. The surrounding area is a real creative hub with Arlo Haisek Jewellery, Alessandro Terre Nude Ceramics, and the Profumoir, where you can create a custom fragrance with Sileno Cheloni and Daniele Cavalli, are just a few highlights. I also love the curated collections at LuisaViaRoma, featuring high fashion in a way that always feels inspiring. 

M: What are your favourite museums or galleries in Florence that you think every creative should experience?

AP: Apart from the Uffizi, I’d definitely recommend visiting the Palazzo Davanzati. It has an incredible lace archive collection that I stumbled upon during a visit— it’s really something special. The entire palace feels like stepping into a different time, and the way they’ve preserved the details of everyday life from centuries ago is fascinating. 

M: If you could recommend one meal or dish in Florence, what would it be? 

AP: I’m a huge fan of pappa al pomodoro, tortino di carciofi, and of course, you can’t visit Florence without having a classic bistecca alla fiorentina. I’m also a total ice cream lover, so I definitely wouldn’t leave without stopping by a gelateria like Sorbeteria. Their lemon and sage sorbet is a must-try, especially when it gets hot in Florence.

M: Florence has an immense population of young creatives and international travelers, combined with a flourishing nightlife and social scene. What is your favourite way to meet and network with other Florentine residents and travelers? 

AP: The best way to meet people in Florence is just to be out on the streets: sitting at a café or bar where everything feels a bit imperfect, or attending exhibition openings. There’s always something happening, and it’s the perfect way to connect. 

M: How has living in Florence overall shaped your perspective on design and craftsmanship compared to other cities you’ve experienced?

AP: I’ve been lucky to experience many cities through my work, but what really made me fall in love with Florence is the deep, unwavering passion for craftsmanship. The attention to detail in every corner, from the handmade leather goods to the intricate mosaics and the centuries-old artisanal traditions, is something you don’t find anywhere. There’s a sense of pride here in creating something with your hands that feels timeless. It’s not just about design; it’s about the care, history, and soul that goes into making things. Florence has a way of making craftsmanship feel like an art form in itself, and that’s been incredibly inspiring to be able to immerse myself in it.

For the cover of “In Conversation: Antonine’s Essential Guide to Florence”, we used the artwork of Giorgio Grimaldi.