Da Pinnochio

I had the welcomed pleasure of visiting Da Pinnochio as part of a loving gift of a trip to Firenze from my girlfriend. The only way to start it right was with the classic dessert that holds a special place in Italian cuisine, and Da Pinnochio’s version offers a test of the nostalgic experience reminiscent of homemade traditions.

One of the first things to note was the understated delivery and choice of vessel. Like a well-built Italian villa standing the test of time, this dessert maintained its structural integrity with only minor imperfections. The layers were distinct and harmonious, but it was difficult to discern if that was from the glass or the structure itself.

The creaminess of the tiramisu was exceptional—rich, velvety, and abundant. The mascarpone layers delivered a luxurious mouthfeel with a flavor profile that balanced sweetness with subtle complexity. The generous portioning of cream ensures that each bite is decadently satisfying, though it occasionally overwhelms the other components.

The cocoa dusting on top deserves special mention. Despite its heavy look, the balance was nearly perfect, providing that characteristic bittersweet contrast that elevates a good tiramisu to greatness. The flavor of the cocoa was robust and high-quality, complementing rather than competing with the other elements.

Where this tiramisu falls slightly short is in the ladyfinger department. The texture indicated that the ladyfingers needed more time soaking in the coffee mixture—they retained a bit too much firmness where that signature melt-in-your-mouth quality was expected. Additionally, the ratio of ladyfingers to cream seemed slightly off, with a desire for more of that essential spongy foundation.

Perhaps the most noticeable shortcoming was the coffee flavor, which was surprisingly muted. For a dessert where coffee traditionally plays a starring role, its subdued presence left me wanting more of that rich depth we all love and that makes tiramisu so distinctive.

Revisiting the presentation, it was straightforward and traditional, without unnecessary flourishes—true to its homestyle roots. This approach enhances the eatability of the dessert, making it easy to enjoy every layer in each spoonful.

Overall, Da Pinnochio’s tiramisu is like reconnecting with an old Italian friend—familiar, comforting, and mostly reliable. With a few adjustments—particularly to the ladyfinger soaking process and coffee intensity—it could truly become the perfect embodiment of what tiramisu should be. Nevertheless, it remains a worthy indulgence that aided in my transition to the Firenze lifestyle

Ratings:

• Creaminess:
  • Flavour: 4/5
  • Texture 4/5
  • Amount 4.5/5
• Cocoa:
  • Balance: 4.5/5
  • Flavour: 4/5
• Ladyfinger
  • Texture: 3/5
  • Amount: 3.5/5
• Other:
  • Coffee Flavour: 2/5
  • Presentation: 3/5
  • Eatability: 4/5
• Overall: 3.65/5

Stay tuned for more tiramisu adventures as I continue to uncover these sweet treasures!