Mad - Souls & Spirits

"Mad Creative Mixologists If you’re looking for a classic martini or Aperol spritz, move along—this bar is all about taking the cocktail to unexpected places. In a tiny, spartan space (think red brick walls and lightly adorned wooden tables), noted booze alchemists Neri Fantechi and Julian Biondi, along with their team of Florence award-winning mixologists, whip up drinks with unique flavor profiles and combinations, like carrot jam with bourbon and egg whites. (The drinks also have names that will make you smile.) The menu is divided into three parts—Soul Warmers, A Fistful of Dollars, and Fabulous Spirits—and also includes a nice selection of mezcals and rye vodkas (Biondi serves as a brand ambassador for Russia’s Poulgar vodka.) The duo also hosts mixology classes and other drink-focused events for fellow enthusiasts and novices alike."

"A quintessential dive bar, San Frediano's Mad Souls and Spirits puts zero effort into its looks and lighting—but that's good news for the fun and approachable craft cocktails, which are free from pretentious mumbo-jumbo. Menus are themed, and change frequently; a recent Ryanair one, for instance, featured concoctions like Flight Insurance (rum with green tea, cinnamon, and lime) and Hand Luggage (gin with lemon and maraschino). It's all in good faith: the head bartenders here hope to encourage young Florentines to swap watered-down spritzes and poorly mixed Negronis for creative, reasonably priced drinks." - Coral Sisk