Fiori d’Italia: A Little Anchorage Love Story (With Whisky, Accents & Almost-Missed Flights)

There are restaurants you love because of the food, and then there are restaurants you love because of the people. Fiori d’Italia is both—and anyone who knows me knows I’ve been a fan for years.

First off, Ylli. The heart, soul, and whisky encyclopedia behind the place. He’s one of those rare people who makes you feel instantly welcome, like you’ve just walked into someone’s home instead of a restaurant. He’s kind, he knows his spirits, and he quietly curates one of the most impressive whisky collections in Anchorage… maybe all of Alaska.

I actually first went to Fiori with my ex-boyfriend—who was, let’s just say, significantly older than me. That’s where I discovered the magic of a beautifully built cocktail. Fiori was the beginning of my love affair with the perfect drink.

Fast forward to recently: my girlfriends and I were out on F Street, doing what we do best—talking to handsome strangers with accents. Two Scottish guys on whisky business (naturally). When I asked if they knew Ylli, they said no. And obviously the only logical next step was: “Okay, you’re coming with us.”

So off to Fiori we went.

To put it lightly, they were shook. Speechless. In awe. Their eyes did that wide, appreciative whisky-lover sparkle when they saw the collection. I think they forgot they were technically “professionals visiting a professional” in this whisky situation.

The food? Amazing.
The service? Always warm and effortless.
The vibe? Classic Fiori—intimate, delicious, a little bit old-world charm, a little bit Anchorage magic.

They almost missed their flight back to Scotland, but honestly? Worth it. They got a real taste of what my city has to offer.

And me? I had my dirty martini and lived my best life. 🙂