Creative cuisine restaurant in Florence in via dei Serragli 3 / R
Oltrarno area
Cuculia is the first Florentine reality that offers contemporary cuisine in an environment that knows how to be elegant and informal at the same time. It all stems from a romantic vision shared by Roberta and Oliver who together created something that was missing in the Florentine panorama and that was accessible to all lovers of good food. Oliver Betancourt and Roberta Del Prete met for the first time in 2009 in Florence; it was immediately clear that the synergy of their skills deriving from different experiences, cultures and studies would give rise to an exceptional and romantic project. In 2012 at 3 / r Serragli road, in the heart of the Florentine Oltrarno, Cuculia was born, an elegant and refined restaurant with an international flair.
Within a relaxed and comfortable setting , the high professionalism of the chef and the haute cuisine accompany the guest in a culinary experience where it is possible to perceive from the first taste the love for cooking, goodness and freshness of raw materials, as well as the beauty of the compositions given by the search for detail. Eating at the cuculia is equivalent to traveling around the world from the comfort of a delicious restaurant in the center of the wonderful city of Florence. The name Cuculia takes up the ancient name of via de’ Serragli which in the Renaissance was known as the road of Cuculia. Numerous cuckoos with an exotic charm, a symbol of power and importance, lived here in the gardens of the nobles palaces. It is said that the Florentines crossed the Arno river only to be able to listen to its song.
Chef Oliver Betancourt
Culinary Innovation in Florence
From Venezuelan roots to a passion for culinary art
Born in Venezuela in 1976, Oliver Betancourt discovered his love for cooking at an early age, learning the secrets of Caribbean and South American cuisine from the women in his family. For him, the kitchen quickly became more than a profession: it was an artistic space to express creativity and culture.
An international journey through Michelin stars and culinary innovation
Driven by the desire to explore the world’s great cuisines, he moved to France, where he trained at La Licorne (1* Michelin) in Fontainebleau, mastering classic French techniques.
He continued his journey in Porto Vecchio, Corsica, where he delved into traditional island recipes.
Drawn by the vibrant culinary scene of Madrid, he moved to Spain, where at just 27 he was awarded Best Young Chef. In Madrid, he perfected his knowledge of contemporary cuisine, exploring fusion cuisine, and experimenting with molecular gastronomy.
He worked alongside celebrated chefs such as Juan Pablo Felipe (Chaflán, 1* Michelin) and Andres Madrigal (El Olivo, 1* Michelin), eventually becoming sous chef for the renowned Sergi Arola at La Broche (2* Michelin).
During this time, he was invited to international gastronomic events and food fairs, including Madrid Fusión, where he shared his expertise on stage. The energy of the Spanish capital also inspired him to explore Thai and Japanese techniques, adding new influences to his evolving style.
Choosing Florence and founding Cuculia
In 2006, he arrived in Italy to deepen his understanding of regional Italian products and culinary traditions. Falling in love with Florence and the creative atmosphere of the Oltrarno district, he opened the Cuculia restaurant in 2013 together with his wife, Roberta Del Prete.
Today, Oliver Betancourt is recognized among the most innovative chefs in Florence, offering a contemporary and seasonal cuisine that combines technique, creativity, and respect for ingredients. His work extends beyond the restaurant, with private dinners, custom tasting menus, and special events designed to surprise and inspire.
⭐ A reference point for those seeking the best chefs in Italy
With over twenty years of international experience, collaborations with Michelin-starred chefs, and a unique approach that blends tradition and innovation, Chef Oliver Betancourt continues to bring a dynamic and creative culinary vision to Florence — inviting every guest on a journey of flavor.
Roberta Del Prete
Born in Naples in 1980, he grew up in Florence and finished his literature studies in Paris, after an artistic and theatrical training course. She approaches the culinary culture as an art form and begins her food and wine training in 2006. Manager and event organizer created the Cuculia restaurant in 2012 together with her husband Oliver Betancourt. In the dining room, thanks to his narration, the chef’s dishes are transformed into a story to tell; manages to convey, with great empathy, past and present emotions linked to the gastronomic culture. Cuculia becomes a stage where to communicate the love and commitment for their work together.