22/05/2024: We just had the most amazing meal in Florence. They get a lot of negative reviews regarding service. The chef is running every aspect of this restaurant from reservations to seating, taking orders etc. The chef kindly reviews the menu options by course. You’ll get a first course. Once you’re finished he returns to review second course options and so on. There is no pressure. He’s very nice, but you need to be decisive as he does not have a lot of time for guests to waste. His English is very good. You must make reservations.
We were a group of 4 and were sat at the only table in the restaurant. All other seating was at the chefs table. All of our dishes were amazing. They have fabulous wine options. Go, enjoy the experience of what a Michelin rated chef can do.
11/05/2024: ZeB is a unique restaurant experience, although apparently quite polarizing too, based on the reviews here. Do read them thoroughly to see if this is something that may appeal to you. I think the vast majority of negative reviews are misplaced, and were probably written by those who didn't quite understand the concept of the restaurant or had an unfortunate miscommunication, maybe exacerbated by a language barrier. The food we ate here was among the best we had during our three weeks in Italy, and the setting itself is excellent as well.
We dined here for dinner when the restaurant opened at 7:30 pm (reservation made by phone a couple weeks prior). There is a menu posted outside the restaurant on a chalk board. Arrive early and take a look at it to get an idea of what you might want. Once seated, the chef asked us if we would like wine, and if so, white or red. He may ask about your preferences and then will make a suggestion. Just take his suggestion, it will be good! Once everyone seated had been asked about wine, he started going around to each party and talked them through the first course options. It is ok to ask reasonable questions about a dish, but it is true that he will expect an answer rather promptly. Don't ask if a dish is good or what he recommends (he designed the menu, of course he thinks it is good and he recommends everything). If you do, you can expect a sarcastic, perhaps teasing reply. It is in jest (probably), do not take it personally. After ordering, we promptly received the first course. After everyone was served, he came around again to each party and talked through the second course options. Similar story with dessert. There was no antipasti on the menu. I would recommend coming hungry and each person ordering a first and second plate. The portion sizes are such that you will be full but not overly so, and the prices are very reasonable for the quality you get. Most first courses were between 14-20 euros, second plates 18-26ish.
We had the pear sauce ricotta ravioli and truffle ravioli for the first course, which were both lovely. For seconds we had the osso bucco and wrapped truffle chicken (or something like that). Everything was wonderful, but especially the truffle dishes. We had tiramisu for dessert which was also exceptional.
We loved our experience here. It felt upscale and refined, but also intimate. Nearly every seat is around the central bar area where the chef and other staff (his mother and a couple others) work. I will admit, however, that it probably isn't for everyone. The chef undoubtedly has a unique personality, and I can see where some of the negative reviews are coming from. Due to the intimate nature of the setting (chef talking you through the menu), I thought the service was really first class in its own way. But do not expect to be doted on. If you interrupt him, he may seem annoyed; but I think it comes from a place of trying to give equal time to all of the customers. If you need more wine, just wait until he seems to have a free moment and he will be happy to help you.
If it sounds very intimidating it might not be for you. If you are interested in eating fantastic food in a unique and intimate environment, then it is probably for you. Just be respectful (and decisive) and you'll have a great experience.
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