Best Places to Eat in Florence Italy

A Taste of Florence: From Street Eats to Fine Dining

Florence, the birthplace of the Renaissance, isn’t just famous for its art and history. The city boasts a vibrant culinary scene with delicious and affordable street food options playing a big part in its charm.

Here are some must-try Florentine street food experiences:

  • Lampredotto: This iconic dish is a true Florentine delicacy. It’s a slow-cooked, flavorful sandwich made from a bread roll filled with tripe (specifically the fourth stomach of a cow), cooked slowly in a broth and served with salsa verde (green sauce) or “spicy” salsa (a spicy chili sauce). You’ll find it at street food stalls throughout the city.

  • Pizza al taglio: While Florence isn’t known for its traditional Neapolitan pizza, pizza by the slice is a popular option. Grab a slice of focaccia topped with your favorite ingredients from bakeries or small pizzerias.

  • Gelato: No trip to Italy is complete without indulging in gelato.

    • Grab-and-go gelaterias are everywhere, offering unique flavors like “nocciola” (hazelnut), “cioccolato e arancia” (chocolate and orange) or even “ricotta” with a hint of honey.

  • Gelato al taglio:
    For a sweet treat, try “gelato al taglio” (meaning “cut ice cream”), which is sold by the scoop in cups or cones.

Beyond the Street:

While Florence may be renowned for its street food scene, it’s important to remember that “street food” doesn’t have the same cultural significance as it does in some other countries.

Florentine cuisine focuses on traditional dishes and artisanal food experiences. You’ll find plenty of fantastic trattorias and restaurants offering delicious Tuscan fare, but be prepared for a more formal dining experience.

Here are some popular options:

  • Trattoria Mario: This classic Florentine trattotto offers an authentic and rustic “bistecca alla Fiorentina” (Florentine steak) at affordable prices.
  • La Cocotte: A small, cozy restaurant known for its hearty Tuscan dishes and delicious desserts.
  • Osteria Santo Spirito: A popular spot for tasting traditional Florentine food in a casual setting.

Remember:

  • “Bistecca alla Fiorentina” (Florentine steak) is often a “splurge” meal, but it’s a culinary experience you won’t want to miss.
  • Osteria: This term refers to small, informal restaurants, usually serving traditional local dishes and food.

Beyond the “Bistecca”:

Florence offers a wide range of culinary delights. You can enjoy:

  • Delicious pasta dishes: Try the pappardelle with wild boar sauce (a classic) or pasta dishes with local sauces like “cacio e pepe”, “pesto alla genovese”, or “ribollita” (a hearty bread and vegetable soup).
  • Florentine street food: Enjoy a more casual side of Florentine cuisine by trying “schiacciata” (a flatbread similar to focaccia) with various toppings, “panini con la lampredotto”, and “trippa” (tripe stew) in many “cibo da strada” stalls.

Enjoy your culinary adventures in Florence!