Rivoire

RIVOIRE FLORENCE
Chocolate makers in Piazza della Signoria since 1872
When you say Rivoire, you immediately think of the most exquisite chocolate. Because RIVOIRE has been Florence’s premier chocolate maker since 1872, and with its historic café at Piazza della Signoria it is still today a point of reference for both chocolate lovers and the most demanding food enthusiasts.
THE HISTORY
There are entrepreneurial realities that continue through the centuries with their quality and heritage intact, establishing their rank in history. This is the case for RIVOIRE, the chocolate factory and café founded in 1872 by Enrico Rivoire, Master Chocolatier of the Royal House of Savoy, who chose to share his noble art and delectable creations with Florence society.
Born in Turin where he developed his chocolate making craft, Rivoire became the official chocolate supplier for the Turin based royal family. Following the Savoy Court to the new Italian capital in Florence, Rivoire eventually decided in 1872 to open a locale at one of the city’s most alluring locations to satisfy the typical Piedmontese pastime of socializing at elegant cafès.
Originally conceived as a Chocolate Steam Factory, the chocolate delicacies served while enjoying the view of Piazza della Signoria were impeccably crafted following Rivoire’s own secret recipe and soon became popular with the city’s elite. Rivoire’s reputation grew amongst the many international travelers to the Renaissance capital, which resulted in recognition of its name and notoriety throughout the world, an early version of brand awareness between affluent 19th century travelers.
With its outdoor tables overlooking Palazzo Vecchio, Rivoire became a cultural meeting place for the Florentine society at the beginning of the 20th century, where intellectual discussions took place over an excellent coffee and delectable chocolates. In addition, exclusive cocktails were dreamed up and served including Florence’s own Negroni often sipped by Count Negroni himself, one of Rivoire’s illustrious patrons.
THE PRESENT
At RIVOIRE you can breathe the elegant atmosphere of its legendary history. Today as then, its famous chocolate specialties and other delicacies are expertly prepared according to original recipes by master pastry chefs and chocolatiers who work in the restaurant's in-house laboratories, using tools and techniques handed down from Rivoire’s beginning. To this a restaurant has been added, with a refined menu and an admirable wine list.
Recently, RIVOIRE was acquired by Italian fashion entrepreneur, art collector and history enthusiast, Carmine Rotondaro. As an eclectic visionary, who enjoys reconciling his business activities with that of a committed art patron and bon viveur, Rotondaro undertook this new project specifically to preserve the charm and prestige of RIVOIRE and to share this historic jewel with the rest of the world. To be a loving caretaker and accompany the brand towards its deserving future. With the utmost care, and above all sensitivity and respect, ensuring that Rivoire’s excellence and innovation along with its noble past will fascinate new generations, creating the perfect alchemy between tradition and modernity.

THE FUTURE
RIVOIRE is a treasure trove of history, prestige, and Florentine quality which from its origins in Piazza della Signoria must project and communicate its long established identity and promise of delights to the entire world.
In Rotondaro's strategic vision, the Café will become a showcase of precious and sublime values that define Made in Italy craftsmanship. The mission initiates in Florence, cradle of the Italian Renaissance, with the intention to transfer these values to the four corners of the world, supported by an effective commercial policy. Also by forging synergic partnerships with local operators who understand and fully embrace the spirit that has constantly animated RIVOIRE.
RIVOIRE aims to evolve into a brand that transcends the original historical café, establishing itself as a symbol of uniqueness, prestige, good taste, luxury, seduction and creativity made in Italy . And to expand locations beyond the renowned Piazza della Signoria venue to include additional world class destinations.