Florence Food Guide

Dreaming of all the delectable meals you’ll indulge in while in Florence? Check out our Florence food guide to ensure you eat the best of the best in the Tuscan capital!

The reality is, Italian food is ALWAYS amazing. And it doesn’t seem to matter when you visit the country, the chefs in the kitchen will always be able to impress you.

From breakfast, to lunch, and until the last swig of wine at night, the food in Florence will leave you satisfied…but always wanting more.

Restaurant La Giostra

If you want to start your culinary journey through the most interesting and delicious restaurants in Florence, La Giostra is not to be missed. This small and cute restaurant is located in Borgo Pinti near Piazza del Duomo and the Museo Nazionale del Bargello. The restaurant is run by a member of the Austrian royal family. This place is famous for authentic Italian, Mediterranean, and of course Tuscan cuisine. Among the flagship dishes, steaks, caprese, or grilled sea bass would be a must.

KITSCH

An important tradition among Italians is aperitivo. This term not only defines a certain Italian tradition but a lifestyle.

Usually, around 6 p.m., Italians meet with friends for aperitivo – a glass of wine or a drink accompanied by various snacks. During this time, when ordering an alcoholic or non-alcoholic cocktail, food is included in the price of a drink.

Kitsch is the best place to experience what an Italian aperitivo mean. It is located about 10-15 minutes from the Santa Croce area. The largest selection of food and great cocktails.

All’antico Vinaio

All’antico Vinaio is absolutely number 1 in Florence in terms of street food. This is something that cannot pass you by. Their schiacciata (typical Tuscan bread) will steal your heart from the first bite. This place always has huge lines but it is worth waiting!

In Florence, there is no better place than All’Antico Vinaio to eat a panino. This spot is unbeatable – the highest quality ingredients, great combination of flavors, and extremely efficient service.

View on Art Rooftop Cocktail Bar

This charming spot for coffee or aperitivo has one of the best views of Florence! So, be prepared to spend more than in any other bar in Florence. View on Art Rooftop Cocktail Bar is located on the roof of a tall building just one block from Piazza del Duomo. We recommend going there for aperitivo to enjoy the golden hour with the view! on the city’s panorama

Mercato Centrale

Mercato Centrale is a food market right next to the Basilica of San Lorenzo. There you will find all kinds of Italian dishes – savory and sweet. If you want to try a variety of Italian dishes, this is where you can do it – everything is in one place. Interesting idea, nice interior.

Interesting facts: the Mercato Centrale building was designed by the same architect as Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II in Milan – by Giuseppe Mengoni.

Il Gelato di Filo

Il Gelato di Filo is a tiny ice cream shop ideally located on the route from the banks of the Arno to the Rose Garden and Piazzale Michaelangelo. There are no flashy banners or ice cream with very intense, unnatural colors. On the contrary, they serve authentic Italian gelato with impeccable flavours.

Fun fact for the fans of the MAGNUM brand: opposite Santa Maria del Fiore there is their ice cream shop where you can compose your own personalized Magnum popsicle!

Gusta Pizza

Gusta Pizza is another restaurant located right next to the architectural symbol of the Basilica of Santo Spirito and which is practically always filled to the brim. Nevertheless, it is certainly worth attention – pizza there is not only delicious but is served really fast despite the long queues. If you want to eat it outside – it is possible to order pizza to go.

Trattoria da Garibardi

Pici is the traditional Tuscan pasta, which is basically thick spaghetti. Being in Florence and wanting to try a delicious Pici, it is worth going to the Trattoria da Garibardi located in Piazza del Mercato Centrale. They specialize in Tuscan cuisine and have been operating continuously since 1989. The menu includes not only pasta but also a lot of meat.

Where to Stay in Florence

One of the popular places to stay for young travellers in Florence is Ostello Bello hostel, situated in the heart of the city, just 5 minutes by foot from Santa Maria Novella station. Ostello Bello offers all the amenities you may need, and the prices are reasonable. It is a perfect place to meet like-minded travellers! You couldn’t make a better choice for your stay in Florence because Ostello Bello will more than exceed your expectations!