The city of Florence, the cradle of the Renaissance and Italian cultural heritage, boasts a unique bond between tradition and modernity. Known worldwide for its art, culture, and history, Florence holds another equally valuable treasure at its core: historic businesses that carry a long-standing, often centuries-old tradition. Shops, historic cafés, bookstores, hotels, pharmacies, restaurants, and artisan workshops not only represent the city’s authentic soul but are also a fundamental part of its unique charm. These establishments, together with their iconic monuments, form a cherished cultural identity loved by Florentines and admired by tourists worldwide.
The Importance of Economic, Historic, and Traditional Businesses
To protect and promote this heritage, the Municipality of Florence adopted the Regulation of Economic, Historic, and Traditional Businesses.
This document establishes criteria to safeguard businesses of historical and cultural significance, encouraging their promotion. One of its main initiatives was the creation of the List of Florentine Businesses of Excellence, which includes establishments—even those that have not reached the minimum requirement of 50 years of operation—that stand out for their cultural, artistic, or economic importance. These businesses often feature notable furnishings or structures, traditional craftsmanship, and distinctive techniques, or sell traditional Florentine products.
Among the over 365 businesses surveyed, three main categories were identified: historic excellence, traditional businesses, and historic street vendors highlighting the diversity and value of economic activities in the UNESCO-listed historic center. These initiatives not only ensure the preservation of a rich past and the survival of businesses threatened by market changes and urban development but also project a heritage that reflects the identity and beauty of the city into the future.
Braciere Malatesta Joins the List of Historic Florentine Businesses
This year, Braciere Malatesta had the honor of being included in the list, earning recognition as one of Florence’s Historic, Traditional, and Excellence Businesses. On December 2, 2024, our restaurant proudly accepted the award during an event held at Palazzo Vecchio. For us, this recognition represents immense pride and satisfaction, honoring the commitment and sacrifice of many people who, over the years, have poured their hearts into building the story of our restaurant and making Braciere Malatesta what it is today.
A Story of Passion and Resilience
The story of Braciere Malatesta began in 1954 when Sergio and Siliana Baglioni, a husband-and-wife duo, opened a small rotisserie pizzeria called La Lampara on Via Nazionale in Florence. The name, inspired by the traditional fishermen’s lamp, adorned the entrance. It was the fourth pizzeria to open in central Florence, and Sergio and Siliana, always working together, were met with immediate enthusiasm and a steady flow of customers. The thriving initial period lasted for years, bolstered by the presence of the Apollo Theater directly opposite La Lampara’s entrance.
During the 1960s, the restaurant exuded an air of joy and serenity, attracting actors and prominent figures from the arts, which in turn drew even more customers. Sergio fondly recalled the long line of patrons that often stretched down the adjacent street and the late-night closings, with people still waiting to dine. Despite the exhaustion, he cherished the balance between his work and returning home to his family, epitomizing the hardworking and family-oriented man he was.
The birth of the name “Braciere Malatesta”
Over the years, the stories and anecdotes grew, as did the number of restaurants in the area. The Baglioni family’s establishment, known for its wood-fired oven and impressive charcoal grill, managed to weather commercial changes and market demands while preserving its identity. Through structural expansions, including new rooms and gardens, the restaurant became a source of wonder for customers who marveled at its unique setting. The interior gardens flourished, with olive trees growing tall and a central poplar tree becoming a majestic focal point.
Eventually, the restaurant’s name evolved. La Lampara was considered misleading due to the absence of seafood dishes on the menu, it became Braciere Malatesta, a name more aligned with its cuisine and heritage. The new name also honored Malatesta Baglioni, an illustrious ancestor of the family. A nobleman and Perugian general, he played a crucial role in 1530 by preventing the destruction of Florence during a lengthy siege and is credited with founding the Calcio Storico Fiorentino.
The Pandemic: A Challenge Overcome
The COVID-19 pandemic in 2020 brought challenging times filled with uncertainty and emotional strain. Despite the difficulties, Braciere Malatesta remained true to its principles, adhering to health regulations to protect everyone’s well-being while fighting for what it believed was right. With determination and resourcefulness, we weathered the storm and continue to do so, holding steadfast to our values.
From Past to Present
Over the years, the restaurant has evolved. After Sergio’s untimely passing, his young sons, Duccio and Luca Baglioni, took over the family business. Their dedication ensured the continuation of the family tradition, paving the way for a new generation of Baglioni.
Today, Christian Baglioni and Guya Baglioni, Duccio and Luca’s children, run Braciere Malatesta alongside Alessandro Armati, Guya’s partner. While the name change marked a new chapter, the historic La Lampara sign remains preserved inside the restaurant as a symbol of its cherished past.
The Value of the Recognition
Receiving the Award for Historic Florentine Businesses is a testament to the tireless work and dedication of those who have kept tradition alive. It shines a spotlight on establishments integral to Florence’s cultural and social fabric, integrating them into thematic tourist itineraries to introduce visitors to the authentic Florence—a city of stories and flavors passed down through generations.
For Braciere Malatesta, this recognition honors its resilience during tough times, such as the pandemic, and its unwavering mission to welcome and delight customers. In the fiercely competitive Florentine dining scene, Braciere Malatesta continues to stand out with its wood-fired oven and charcoal grill, offering a dining experience that blends traditional flavors with warm hospitality.
As the owners proudly declare: “For us, hospitality is more than a job; it’s a fundamental piece of our country’s culture and identity—something far greater than a mere market sector.” With this conviction, Braciere Malatesta looks to the future while staying rooted in its past, promising to continue telling stories of excellence and authenticity. Florence is a city of history, and each of its historic businesses tells a chapter of its long narrative. Braciere Malatesta is one of its most flavorful and meaningful pages, waiting to be read and savored, again and again.
