Michigan, US, 4th July 2025, ZEX PR WIRE, Cuculia Ristorante, an exceptional dining destination in the heart of Florence, continues to raise the bar for fine dining with its groundbreaking approach to Italian cuisine. With accolades from prestigious organizations—including the Michelin Guide and the Forchettiere Awards—Cuculia has firmly established itself as one of the city’s most sought-after restaurants, attracting both local connoisseurs and international food lovers alike.
Led by Chef Oliver Betancourt and his wife Roberta Del Prete, who serves as manager, maître d’, and sommelier, Cuculia delivers an extraordinary dining experience that celebrates creativity, quality, and sustainability. While the restaurant offers a wide range of expertly crafted dishes rooted in Italian tradition, it has also earned international recognition for its exceptional vegetarian and vegan offerings.
Global Recognition in the WE’RE SMART® GREEN GUIDE
Cuculia is proud to be ranked 10th in Italy and 94th worldwide for its vegetarian and vegan cuisine by the WE’RE SMART® GREEN GUIDE, the leading international guide for sustainable, plant-forward gastronomy. This recognition places Cuculia among the top restaurants globally for its excellence in plant-based cuisine—an especially notable achievement in a region known for its meat-centric culinary traditions.
It’s important to note that while Cuculia’s vegetarian and vegan menus have garnered critical acclaim, they are just one facet of a broader offering. The restaurant’s menu encompasses a full spectrum of refined dishes, marrying the richness of traditional Italian flavors with contemporary techniques and seasonal, locally sourced ingredients.
A Prestigious Michelin Recognition
Since 2023, Cuculia Ristorante has been recognized by the Michelin Guide—a globally respected symbol of culinary excellence. The Michelin recognition affirms the restaurant’s exceptional standards across all aspects of the dining experience, from food quality and creativity to authenticity and service.
At Cuculia, each dish is a testament to Chef Betancourt’s craftsmanship. The menu evolves with the seasons, offering guests an opportunity to explore both plant-based and traditional dishes made from the finest Tuscan ingredients.
The Forchettiere Award: Best Fine Dining in Florence/Tuscany
Cuculia was also recently honored with the Forchettiere Award for Best Fine Dining in Florence/Tuscany. Voted by the public, this prestigious accolade further cements Cuculia’s role as a leader in the region’s culinary landscape. The award is a testament not only to the restaurant’s refined plant-forward offerings but also to its broader commitment to culinary excellence.
A Bold and Balanced Culinary Vision
In a city steeped in culinary tradition, Cuculia stands out for its bold, plant-forward menus that coexist seamlessly with more traditional Italian offerings. While its vegetarian and vegan tasting menus showcase the artistry and innovation of Chef Betancourt, diners can also enjoy a variety of other dishes that reflect the richness and diversity of Italian cuisine.
Cuculia’s success lies in its ability to reimagine Tuscan ingredients—wild herbs, seasonal vegetables, artisanal cheeses—in new and inspiring ways, without ever straying too far from the roots of Italian gastronomy.
Chef Oliver Betancourt: A Visionary Leader
With over three decades of international experience, Chef Oliver Betancourt brings a global sensibility to Cuculia’s kitchen. Originally from Venezuela, his culinary journey has taken him through renowned kitchens in France, Spain, and Italy. This eclectic background informs his innovative yet grounded approach to Cuculia’s menus, blending elegance with accessibility.
Sustainability at the Core
Sustainability is central to Cuculia’s philosophy. The restaurant partners with local farmers and producers to ensure every dish is crafted with the freshest, most responsibly sourced ingredients. From minimizing food waste to adopting energy-efficient practices, Cuculia is dedicated to reducing its environmental impact while maintaining the highest culinary standards.
Redefining Florence’s Dining Scene
As Florence continues to evolve as a gastronomic destination, Cuculia plays a pivotal role in shaping the city’s modern culinary identity. Its innovative blend of traditional Italian cuisine and celebrated plant-based offerings challenges conventional expectations and opens up exciting new possibilities for food lovers.
Looking Ahead
Chef Betancourt and Roberta Del Prete remain committed to pushing boundaries—whether through evolving seasonal menus, expanding global culinary influences, or deepening sustainable practices. As Cuculia moves forward, its mission remains clear: to deliver an immersive, refined, and unforgettable dining experience for every guest.
Conclusion: A Gem in Florence’s Culinary Landscape
Cuculia Ristorante has firmly established itself as one of Florence’s premier dining destinations. With Michelin recognition, a Forchettiere Award, and global acclaim from the WE’RE SMART® GREEN GUIDE for its outstanding vegetarian cuisine, Cuculia is a beacon of innovation, sustainability, and excellence in Italian fine dining.
For more information or to make a reservation, please visit www.cuculia.it.
Contact:
Cuculia Ristorante
Phone: +39 349 434 4518 (Mobile)
Phone: +39 055 277 6205 (Landline, available after 5:00 PM)
Website: www.cuculia.it
Disclaimer: The views, suggestions, and opinions expressed here are the sole responsibility of the experts. No Times World USA journalist was involved in the writing and production of this article.
