Florentine, the new Italian restaurant on Marbella’s Golden Mile, opened its doors just a month ago within the Forum complex, introducing a gastronomic proposal that blends the sophistication of Italian culinary tradition with modern reinterpretation. Owned by the Swedish group Urban Italian Group (UIG), known for its success in Sweden with eight restaurants, Florentine positions itself as an exclusive space within their repertoire, elevating Italian cuisine to a higher level.
Unlike the more casual Basta restaurants, Florentine offers a complete sensory experience, where every detail, from the space design to the dish presentation, has been meticulously crafted. The concept behind the restaurant combines the essence of 1970s Italy with a warm and welcoming atmosphere, evoking cinematic images of a golden era of Italian style. Its 800 square meters spread across two floors, along with a future panoramic terrace overlooking La Concha, make Florentine the largest restaurant in Marbella, with seating for 400 guests.
The interior design draws inspiration from various Italian regions, blending high-quality marble, wood, and textiles with traditional decorative elements like hand-painted ceramics from Deruta and exclusive Murano lamps. Hand-sculpted statues and the use of native materials strengthen the connection to Italian roots, while the service stands out for its professionalism and genuine courtesy, steering clear of the excessive formality often seen in other luxury venues in the area.
Florentine’s menu is distinguished by a careful selection of ingredients typical of various Italian regions, such as olives from Puglia or fregola from Sardinia. The menu, rooted in Italian tradition with contemporary touches, offers everything from Neapolitan pizzas to artisanal pastas like the Santa Carbonara, served directly from a 10-kilo Pecorino cheese wheel, adding a theatrical element to the dishes that enhances the overall dining experience.
Thanks to the attentive service from Jorge and the rest of the team, and the expertise of sommelier Pedro in recommending wines, dining at Florentine exceeded our expectations. It was a sensory journey through the craftsmanship, culture, and gastronomy of Italy. The restaurant, meticulously designed, offers a unique experience in the heart of the Costa del Sol, both for lunch and dinner. With its masterful blend of tradition, innovation, and understated luxury, Florentine is poised to become a new landmark in Marbella’s gastronomic scene. The valet parking service, increasingly appreciated especially in the summer, is also worth noting, although the Forum Center offers its own parking for customers.
Location: Forum Marbella BV Príncipe Alfonso Hohenlohe n7, Marbella
Opening hours: Monday to Friday, from 7:00 p.m. to 2:00 a.m. Saturdays and Sundays, from 1:00 p.m. to 2:00 a.m.
