Lino and Sarah Poli were destined to open a restaurant of their own, from the moment they met in Italy, both had culinary minds, they fell in love with each other and with the ideals of Italian gastronomy and it’s been with them ever since.

Lino honed his classical training at a number of highly acclaimed Michelin Starred restaurants in Italy, whilst Sarah sparkled front of house, serving her apprenticeship with Raymond Blanc, John Burton race, and eventually at the Enoteca Pinchiorri, where finally their paths crossed.

Some may know Lino and Sarah for running one of Leicesters finest restaurants: Welford Place back in the 90′s, becoming widely praised for its elegant atmosphere and exceptional British food, but the love of all things Italian proved too powerful, and in 1999 Lino and Sarah began the search for the perfect home for their dream restaurant. They soon discovered No.9 Station Street, in Kibworth Beauchamp,  previously home to the International Music Shop, and lots of Violin and Cellos. Extensive renovation work ensued, and towards the end of 1999 Firenze opened its doors.

Our principles were simple, serve exceptional Italian food with inspiring all Italian wines in a relaxed and friendly atmosphere.

Numerous critics and more importantly, customers have reassured us that our principles were, and still are correct, but time never stands still, and with the changing seasonal menus comes ever more inspirational food. We now make our own breads and pastas, infuse and cure our own meats, and are relentless in our search for the finest, freshest ingredients from which to create our dishes.

Firenze has taken its rightful place as one of the UK’s finest Italian restaurants, and Lino, Sarah and the entire team at Firenze are dedicated to taking it higher and higher.