From the moment we first decided to take a trip to Florence, Italy, I couldn’t wait to get a taste of the local food. As I researched sights to see, my mind kept wandering toward plates of pasta and wood-fired pizzas.
Of course, I was interested in the city’s stunning architecture and famous artwork. It’s just that I was far more intrigued about which restaurants in Florence serve the best steak and where to find the locals’ favorite food stand.
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When making our plans, deciding what to eat and where to make dinner reservations actually began to outweigh my curiosity about tourist attractions and day tours!
When I created our Florence itinerary, I specifically designed our sightseeing route so that we could indulge in the epic food scene.
On our trip we savored sensational Tuscan schiacciata sandwiches and indulged in more than our fair share of gelato.
And, let me just say this: From the first bite pizza to the last morsel of pasta, the food in Florence absolutely delivered!
Best Restaurants in Florence, Italy
Our quest to find the best Florence restaurants wasn’t centered on fine dining or Michelin-starred chefs.
Instead, our Florence food journey focused on traditional fare. We often dined in Oltrarno, the neighborhood across the Arno River, where we could find local eateries.
As we were intent on sampling Tuscan-inspired meals, seeking out restaurants that serve regional fare was our top priority.
Rather than rattling off top restaurants, our list is organized by must-try local dishes. For each meal we recommend, we share an establishment that excels at making that specialty.
While we believe these are the best places to eat in Florence, it’s a completely subjective list based on our personal tastes and dining experiences.
We also dipped our toes into the beverage offerings, because they’re spectacular, too! Use the map at the end of the article for all the premier locations and more reviews.
What To Eat in Florence, Italy + Restaurants
With our list of local foods and restaurant recommendations, you can make your perfect plan of what and where to eat in Florence, Italy!
Pici Pasta
One of the best things to eat in Florence is Pici. It’s a traditional Tuscan hand-rolled pasta that is thick and round. Although similar to spaghetti, pici noodles are more dense and chewy.
These noodles can be used in a variety of iconic Italian dishes. A popular one is Pici Cacio e Pepe, a simple and satisfying dish that utilizes the strong noodles along with cheese and pepper (a classic flavor combo that originated in Rome).
Pici based pasta dishes are featured on many trattoria and osteria menus in restaurants around Florence.
Where To Eat Pici
On the advice of locals, we ate pici at Trattoria 4 Leoni. We rank it high on our list for being the best dining in Florence, Italy for Tuscan specialties.
The classic trattoria is located on a quiet square in Oltrarno. The interior is warm and cozy, but opted to dine on the patio, instead. The menu changes with some regularity, but Pici is almost always an option.
Cinghiale
Wild Boar – Cinghiale in Italian – is a Florence specialty. The most common wild boar dish is Papparedelle Ragu di Cinghale.
The long-loved pasta dish from Tuscany is made with ribbon-like egg noodles complimented by a savory wild boar sauce. It’s divine.
Where To Eat Pappardelle Ragu di Cinghiale
While wild boar dishes feature prominently on menus around the city, we tried it at Osteria Cinghiale Bianco.
The restaurant’s name translates to The White Boar – and we feel it’s the prime place to try boar in Florence, Italy.
In addition to Pappardelle Ragu di Cinghiale, patrons can order cured wild boar and other main dishes featuring the local meat.
Seating at the restaurant is a little cramped (and our waiter was a little aloof), but the food hit the mark.
Truffles
Pungent and earthy, truffles are not to everyone’s taste, but we can’t get enough of them! Tuscany is a well-known truffle region, so many local dishes are enhanced with the umami flavor.
We prefer truffles in pasta dishes, but truffle-infused cheeses and cured meats are delicious, too. Basically, just bring on the truffles!
Best Restaurant for Truffle Pasta
We were swayed into dining at Osteria Santo Spirito by their signature Truffle Gnocchi – and it did not disappoint!
Although there was a long line (they don’t take reservations), they brought us a complimentary drink while we waited. As we didn’t mind sharing a table, we were soon seated outside and quickly served.
The big bowl of bubbling gnocchi in a creamy truffle sauce surpassed our expectations. It was truly tasty!
Tuscan Schiacciata
Before our trip, we had heard that the best food in Florence, Italy is Schiacciata sandwiches. After eating one every day of our trip, we now wholeheartedly agree!
Schiacciata is a flat bread that is similar to focaccia, but markedly different (especially in the baking process). The Tuscan Schiacciata bread is used to make the delectable deli sandwiches that Florence has become so well known for.
Top Florence Sandwich Shops
In our diligent Schiacciata research (not a bad gig, we know!), we were determined to seek out the best sandwich in Florence, Italy.
All’Antico Vinaio is known for serving the most famous paninis in Florence. Without a doubt, the sandwiches are outstanding; we especially love the creative combinations. However, it’s a bit on the pricey side and the long lunchtime lines are a circus.
Also popular spot is I’ Girone de’ Ghioti. The shop is rather small, so we aimed to arrive right when they opened.
Even with our early appearance, there was a crowd already gathered at the door. Although it took some time to get our lunch, the big sandwiches were totally worth the wait.
From the moment we walked into Pino’s Sandwiches, we loved everything about the shop (plus they had tables where we could eat!).
The staff (owner and his son) were friendly and helpful as they assembled our delicious made-to-order sandwiches.
All that said, our top pick for the best panini in Florence is Schiaccia Passera. An inconspicuous gem in Oltrarno, the corner shop excels in every way. The bread is perfection, the ingredients are quality and the service is quick.
Lampredotto
This is, perhaps, the most famous food in Florence, Italy for locals – but it is one that not all travelers are keen to try.
Lampredotto is a sandwich stuffed with tripe (grilled cow stomach) and is slathered in an aromatic salsa verde.
The sandwich is typical fast food in Florence, Italy – so you will often see it served from food trucks and corner kiosks, as well as at markets.
Where To Eat Lampredotto in Florence
I certainly had my hesitations about trying this, but as one of the cheap eats in Florence, Italy, I figured I would at least give it a go. (Kris was not feeling as adventurous, so I was on my own).
Locals pointed me to La Buticche di Lampredotto, a food kiosk that sees very few tourists and is 100% authentic.
Even with the language barrier and my obvious lack of conviction, both patrons and staff were helpful, as they ensured me I was ordering the best Lampredotto in the city.
Honestly, it was tastier than I had anticipated and I’m glad that I tried it. In hindsight, I wish I would have tried a second one at La Buticche di Lampredotto, like the Lingua (tongue) or Porchetta (pork) – which are also highly rated by the locals.
Note that you can also try this Florentine street food at Mercado Centrale. Da Nerbone Lampredotto is where many tourists get a taste of the specialty.
Ribollita Soup
Comfort food at its finest, Ribollita is a hearty soup made with vegetables, beans and stale bread. It originated in the Middle Ages as a way for lower classes to use up leftovers.
By the way, you might notice that the bread in Florence lacks a familiar flavor. It’s because Tuscan bread is made without salt (and, thus, tends to dry out quickly).
Where To Eat Ribollita
There are tons of places that serve Ribollita as a starter – and each has their own recipe or secret spin. Trattorio Mario, however, is the ideal place to try the humble peasant’s dish.
The eatery is a basic, no-frills Florence restaurant, where the menu is handwritten daily (but always includes Ribollita). While the soup itself does not look that appetizing, it is an absolute delight!
Florentine Pizza
Like in most of Italy, pizzerias are abundant in the Renaissance city. Florentine Pizzas are typically thin and crispy, with the crust breaking easily apart as you eat.
However, Neapolitan-style pizzas, with their signature soft dough, are also found at many Florence pizza restaurants.
Top Pizza Restaurants in Florence
It’s no secret that GustaPizza is one of the best pizzerias in the city – so we were prepared to encounter a queue wrapped around the corner.
But much to our surprise, our late dinner plans worked in our favor and we only waited a few minutes to be seated.
The atmosphere was jovial, the staff delightful and the pizzas heavenly. We have no hesitation proclaiming it to be the best pizza in Florence, Italy.
Our recommendation is the namesake GustaPizza, topped with fresh cherry tomatoes, arugula and shaved parmesan cheese.
If, however, the line is too long at Gusta, check out the nearby Antica Pizzeria Regine. Attracting far more locals than foreigners, we found it to be one of the best pizza places in Florence for wood-fired pies.
Florentine Steak (Bisteca Fiorentina)
One of the most famous Florence foods, the gargantuan Florentine Steak is a must-try local dish. Also called Bisteca alla Fiorentina, it’s traditionally a cut of meat from Chianina, a specific Tuscan cattle breed.
Served in monstrous 2-pound portions, the thick Porterhouse steak in Florence is grilled over hot coals to create a crispy crust, while the tender meat stays very rare.
In fact, some chefs refuse to cook it any other way. The meat is extremely flavorful and is only enhanced by a sprinkle of salt and a drizzle of olive oil.
Best Florence Steak Restaurants
Several establishments have gained reputation for serving excellent Bisteca Fiorentina, but our pick for the best steak in Florence, Italy is Trattoria Za Za.
Although it was by far our most expensive dinner in Florence, it was also the most memorable.
The venue itself is charming, with bric-a-brac decorating the succession of little dining rooms and the waitstaff are attentive and helpful. But the shining star of the experience is the steak itself.
Gelato
During the hot and crowded summer, the best food to eat in Florence, Italy may actually be gelato!
Gelato was born in Florence in the 1500s when it was created as a cold dessert for the city’s noble Medici family.
Today, it seems there are gelato shops on every corner. However, handmade artisan gelataria (look for stainless steel tubs and a lack of unnatural colors) are the most authentic.
Best Gelato in Florence, Italy
It is impossible to designate one gelato shop as serving the best ice cream in Florence, Italy – there are so many super places. Instead, here’s our list (in no particular order) of the spots we tried – and loved!
Vivoli is a bit of a throwback gelato shop. Family-owned since 1930, they serve fresh-made scoops of unique flavors (try the rice!). They are particularly known for their affogato – which is gelato drowned in hot espresso.
Gelateria Santa Trinita offers a vast selection of flavors and serves large scoops at fair prices. We suggest trying some of their special flavors – like black sesame or mascarpone.
The artisan Gelateria della Passera is a pure delight. Dedicated to using only the highest quality ingredients, they elevate gelato to an art!
The pistachio gelato at My Sugar was my favorite of the trip; it was creamy perfection…but not overly sweet, as the shop’s name might suggest!
A Florence institution, Gelateria dei Neri has been in business for more than 30 years. They are dedicated to creating creamy gelato using local flavors. My favorite is the ricotta and fig!
Florence Bakeries and Cafes
The coffee culture is strong in Italy! We are highlighting a few fun places where you can sip superb coffee, along with nibbling morning bites.
We feel La Cite is the best café in Florence, Italy for a relaxing atmosphere and hip vibes.
Coffee Mantra is consistently rated for the best coffee in Florence for artisanal offerings with impeccable quality.
The landmark Caffee Gilli dates to 1733 and is a great place for people watching (and one of the top bakeries in Florence, too!).
The modern Ditta Artigianale is a popular spot with multiple locations; they serve the best breakfast (and brunch) in Florence, Italy.
Tuscan Wine
Nestled in the hills of Tuscany, Florence is a haven for wine connoisseurs…and an excellent place for beginners, as well. The most notable local wines are Chianti (red) and Vernaccia (white).
While there are numerous wine shops in Florence, we didn’t find very many where you could partake in tastings.
Instead, we suggest going to one (or more!) of the wine bars below. Alternatively, join a wine tour to the nearby vineyards and meet fellow travelers!
Top Wine Bars in Florence, Italy
- Le Volpi e l’Uva is a cozy spot with long list of wines by the glass and flights.
- The classy Enoteca Pitti Gola e Cantina offers tastings and rare Italian wines.
- At La Prosciutteria you can enjoy a glass of Chianti pared with a meat and cheese board.
Italian Craft Beer
While Italy is not particularly known for craft beer, we love seeking out local brews while traveling. To get a taste of craft beer in Florence, we sought out dedicated tap rooms (as most bars only server mass-produced suds).
Craft Beer Bars
We believe Alibi Craft Beer and Kitchen is one of the best pubs in Florence, Italy – especially for sampling an array of local libations.
We also enjoyed the beers at Archea Brewery. In addition to their own creations, they offer a variety of Italian craft beers on draft and in bottles.
Florence Rooftop Bars
Florence is a fabulous city to see from above. We are highlighting a few of our top top choices for the best bars in Florence with a view.
Loggia Rooftop Bar features an elevated terrace overlooking Santo Spirito Square. It’s a top pick for sunset views and good cocktails.
The Arno River and Ponte Vecchio views from the fashionable La Terrazza Bar at Continentale Hotel are hard to beat!
Empire at the Plaza Hotel Lucchesi and SE STO at The Westin Excelsior are both chic spots for sunset drinks and spectacular views.
More Options for Dining in Florence, Italy
Even though we made a solid effort, we didn’t eat at all of the restaurants we wanted to during our trip. We are saving these places for our next visit!
- Il Profeta – Fine dining with a signature, secret-recipe dish, “John Travolta Pasta”.
- La Giostra – Highly rated elegant Florence dining option with an extensive wine list.
- Vini E Vecchi Sapori – Top-ranked by many for serving the best pasta in Florence.
Florence Food Experiences
Eating in Florence is an experience! While the restaurants on our list are a good place to start, there are more ways to indulge.
Dine at Mercado Centrale
Essentially a food court, the second floor of Mercado Centrale is heaving with kiosk eateries. Featuring a range of both expensive and cheap restaurants in Florence, it’s a great place to get a taste of multiple dishes under one roof!
Join a Florence Food Tour
You can combine sightseeing with Tuscan cuisine on a highly-rated guided tour. Participants get a personal introduction to Florence while savoring some amazing foods. Sign up!
Partake in a Tuscan Cooking Class and Dinner
Rather than sorting out reservations, join one of the top-rated cooking classes in Florence, Italy. Learn about the cuisine, then feast on the 4-course dinner that you helped prepare. Get the details!
Map of Florence, Italy Restaurants
Use this Google Map for an interactive version of our Florence restaurants map below.
Start planning your trip to Italy! Search for the lowest airfares, the best accommodations and fun things to do…then start packing! Want additional tips? Head over to our Travel Planning Page for more advice – and for country-specific information, take a look at our Travel Guides Page!
More Top Florence Travel Guides
- How To Spend 7 Days in Tuscany
- Things To Do in Pisa
- What To See in San Gimigniano
- What To Do in Lucca
- Things To See in Siena
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