I spent almost a year living in Florence, and you can pretty much wander into any hole in the wall and eat a great meal. Still, I had my favorites and some places that deserve to be mentioned. So, here is my list of all things food in Florence – and of course where to get a good drink. (I know its a bit long, but I lived there for so long, I couldn’t leave places out!)
Lunchtime Spots
Pino’s Sandwiches
Pino is an absolute delight. He’s by far one of the kindest and most welcoming people I met while in Florence. Introduce yourself when you go in, choose from one of the delicious sandwiches on the menu or ask him to surprise you…You can’t go wrong.
All’Antico Vinaio
Perhaps the most famous sandwich spot, Antico Vinaio always has a line wrapped around the corner. Trust me, its worth the wait. Here’s a little insider tip: the Osteria across the street by the same name, is the same place, and they make sandwiches there…The line is almost always shorter on that side of the road. Just choose what meat you want and then have them make the rest of the sandwich. I’ve never gotten the same thing twice and I’ve never had a bad sandwich. Plus, the bread is always hot out of the oven.
Gusta Pizza
Located on the other side of the Arno River, Gusta (which has been featured on tv shows like Diners, Dives and Drive Ins) is by far the best pizza I’ve ever had. Made fresh to order, you can choose from a classic margarita pizza to a spicy salami pizza to a pizza covered in fresh eggplant. Make sure to check the special board which is located next to the big menu hanging on the wall. When its nice out, take your pizza to go and eat it on the steps of the church in Santa Spirito.
Pane e Toscana
The best sandwich on the menu is the Pisano – wild boar salami, blueberry jam, and pecorino cheese. The combination of the jam and cheese is incredible. You can get your sandwich on a small panino or get scachatta bread (which is always my choice). If you’re going to be in Florence for awhile, make sure to get a punch card, after 10 sandwiches, your 11th is free.
Mercato Centrale
If you get here before 2pm, you can make a meal out of the samples on the bottom floor. If not, head upstairs and check out one of the many food stands. Choose from the freshest hamburger you’ll ever have, to delicious vegetarian fare. If burgers aren’t your thing, you can always get homemade pasta or pizza. If you want to sit and have a meat and cheese plate and sip on some wine, you can do that too.
Brunch
Le Vespe Cafe
On the healthier side, this cafe creates fresh brunch all day. The food is delicious (my favorite is the grilled cheese with caramelized onions, spinach and bacon or the eggs Benedict). They make fresh juices and freshly brewed coffee. The only thing is that its always packed and the service isn’t that wonderful. So, if you aren’t in a rush and want to sit and enjoy yourself, this is the place to go!
The Diner
The owner of The Diner, Val, is awesome. He also own Acqua al’2 and Blob. But anyways, The Diner is a great spot to pick up an American Coffee or sit down and have breakfast or a burger. It looks like an American Diner so if you’re feeling nostalgic for home, look no further.
Dinner
La Giostra
The best meal I had in Florence. Make a reservation, ask to sit in the main room and sit back and enjoy your complimentary glass of Prosecco and House Appetizer. Its definitely more on the pricier side, but its completely worth it. The Burrata Cheese appetizer is the greatest thing I’ve ever tasted…(I’m still trying to find out where the fig jam they use is from). Their Pear Ravioli is to die for and the Balsamic Steak is perfect to share. Order the cheesecake at the end of the meal and prepare to be amazed.
Acqua Al’2
Try the Blueberry Steak. Yes, it sounds weird, but its one of the most delicious things I have ever tasted. If you’re a little nervous, order the steak sampler instead so that you can try a few smaller pieces of meat. The pasta sampler is great if you want to try a few different ones. Make a reservation because its almost always packed here.
Trattoria ZaZa
If you LOVE truffles, you must visit ZaZa. I lived across the street from here and my roommate and I loved to go eat there. They have a menu that consists of all dishes that contain truffle. If you are interested in eating a decadent meal that won’t break the bank, definitely make a reservation here.
Il Profeta
I think my favorite thing about this place was that the owner came over to the table and explained the entire menu to us. It’s a little overpriced, but the food is very good and its a famous restaurant. Perhaps one of the most famous dishes is the John Travolta pasta – if you want to order this, share it with the table and then have everyone else order their own dish. We didn’t end up with enough food, but let me tell you, the poached pear dessert was mind blowing.
Osteria de Benci
Drunkhard Spaghetti and Strawberry Risotto are the way to go here. While definitely the most interesting pasta dishes I had in Italy, the spaghetti and risotto are perfect to order and share with someone. They are both incredibly rich, but totally worth it.
Il Teatro
One word: Coccoli. Think fried dough, stracchino cheese, and prosciutto. Literally the best appetizer in the WORLD. I could eat fifty of these delicious things. Il Teatro definitely leads the ranks with theirs. Sometimes, I would go and just order it.
Il Gatto e la Volpe
If you go to this spot for one reason, make it for their balsamic and their bread. It’s so tasty. You won’t leave any bread on the plate and you’ll be licking your dish clean. Order the Spaghetti Carbonara for your pasta dish and fall in love.
Gelato
La Carraia
There are two locations for this delicious gelato spot. My favorite flavor here is definitely the mint chocolate chip. It’s one of the only gelato places that serves the flavor.
Dei Neri
You must order a cone with Salted Caramel and Pistachio. Its my favorite gelato place and the best combination I had all year.
Il Gelato Gourmet
They have the best fig gelato in the WORLD. Its seasonal so look for it from early summer to early fall.
Gelaterai Edoardo
The best thing about this place is they make their own cones, fresh, everyday. If you walk past this place, you’re done for because the smell alone will force you to try one. They have all organic gelato and their coconut stracciatella flavor is the best thing ever if you’re lactose intolerant or just don’t like milk.
La Strega Nocciola
This spot is on the other side of the river and has more decadent flavors like lavender and tangerine. Its delicious. I like to grab a gelato from here and then take a walk over the Ponte Vechhio.
Bars
Uncle Jimmys
Looking for a little slice of America in Florence? Go here. Everyone is so friendly and some of the bartenders are good friends of mine! If you’re feeling ballsy, order a Flux and brace yourself.
Kikuya
Come for a dragoon and then let the night unfold. Kikuyu is a tiny little bar and is a great hang out spot.
Lions Fountain
This place will always hold a special place in my heart since I had to work here every Wednesday night while I lived in Florence. If you’re looking for a college type bar, this is your place. Owned by the same people as Uncle Jimmy’s, these two spots are awesome.
The Red Garter
Karaoke, beer pong, and American food… What could be better then that?
Atlantic Pub
I’m definitely biased about this since I lived above this bar, but this place is a perfect spot to stop in for a quick drink. They make the BEST mojitos.
Blob
Go on a Monday for great music. Blob stays open late, so its the perfect place to head to after hours.
Ebys
The greatest and most unique shots you’ll find. Have the owner make you a shot and prepare to be amazed by the ingredients he uses…think coffee, oranges and sugar…
Late Night Food
Secret Bakery
Follow your nose and get ready for the freshest most delicious treats you can find.
I have so many more Florence posts! Find out how to spend 72 hours in Firenze, where to shop, the ten best things to do in Florence, and more!
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