On May 23rd 1962, on Via de’ Benci in Florence, the American Jack Correa opens Red Garter: a venue completely different from anything the city had ever seen. With his banjo, the energy of American inns with their saloons, and an international soul, he turns an old carpenter’s workshop into a meeting place for young people, live music and unforgettable nights. This is how the first true American Bar in Florence — and in Italy — is born.
On Christmas Eve 1970, a tragic explosion caused by a gas leak rocks Red Garter. Florence rallies around the venue in an extraordinary outpouring of solidarity. That moment deeply marks Red Garter’s history, becoming the toughest turning point of its life.
After months of closure, Red Garter is reborn thanks to the courage of four people who lived that venue every day: Pier Franco Cappelli, Franco Calamini, Claudio Ciucchi and Zafir. Waiters, collaborators and souls of the place who decide to take it over and bring it back to life. From that moment on Red Garter becomes even more a home for students, travelers and young people from all over the world.
With the start of the 2000s Red Garter evolves once again. The steakhouse is born: burgers, steaks, American food and a new experience that brings cuisine, music and nightlife under the same roof. An innovative mix for Florence, turning the venue into a true landmark of American style in the city.
In 2007 Riccardo Tarantoli takes over Red Garter with a clear goal: to bring back the venue’s authentic soul and turn it once again into a landmark of Florentine nightlife. At the heart of his vision are entertainment, karaoke paired with quality dinner, live music and an international atmosphere — the elements that have always represented Red Garter’s truest identity. By reviving the original American concept, the venue comes back to life through engaging nights, a real show and cosmopolitan energy. A new era made of identity, passion and experience, turning Red Garter into the iconic venue that still today keeps generations of people from all over the world having a great time.
After more than fifty years of history, the brand takes its first international step with the opening of the second Red Garter in Barcelona. The American spirit born in Florence crosses borders, bringing to Europe the same energy made of music, fun and timeless nights.
Today Red Garter looks to the future with an even more ambitious vision. New strategic partnerships, franchise development and international projects are turning a historic Florentine venue into a brand set to grow worldwide. The goal is clear: to export the Red Garter experience while keeping its original soul intact.
After more than 60 years of history, Red Garter keeps looking ahead. New projects, new partnerships and ambitious ideas are already taking shape, with the same energy that has driven this place since 1962, ready to take on and overcome whatever new challenges the future brings. The Red Garter team is more motivated than ever: ready to create new experiences, new nights to remember and to take our spirit even further. The future? It’s still to be written. And we’re only at the beginning.
Invia la tua candidatura ed unisciti a Red Garter
Submit your application and join Red Garter
