In Neopolitan dialect Obica means “Here it is”. It is used to describe something that is happening right before your eyes, like a freshly made mozzarella ready to be eaten.
Obica Mozzarella Bar in Florence is set in a wonderful building with an open courtyard as well as the gorgeous interior. It is in Via de Tornabuoni at number 16.
The restaurant pairs its fresh Mozzarella di Bufala with a few simple products sourced from the best producers in Italy. I teamed my mozzarella with anchovies and semi-dried tomatoes…it was absolutely delicious.
On another visit I ordered the pizza. The dough is left to rise slowly for at least 48 hours and then cooked on refractory stone, giving it a special crispness and lightness. My topping was a lightly smoked mozzarella and it was heavenly. I wish you could taste it! A photo will have to do.
The Florence restaurant is well set up for private functions. I discovered some delightful rooms on a little walk through the interior.
In Italy you can find Obica (It is sometimes spelled Obika) in Milan, Florence, Rome and Palermo. They are also expanding in the UK, USA, Japan and Dubai.
Debra Kolkka writes two blogs, Bagni di Lucca and Beyond and Bella Bagni di Lucca. With a background in fashion, this Australian splits her life between her home country and her beloved Italy, enjoying the best of both worlds. You can find Debra on her blogs.
Photos by Debra Kolkka
Concierge tip: Feeling hungry? Florence is well-known for its great restaurants. But you need not even leave the luxurious surroundings of Relais Santa Croce to sample Guelfi e Ghibellini curated by Chef Fabrizio Innocenti, who showcases the best of Tuscan cuisine and local ingredients with his delicate touch.
