Best Places to Eat in Florence IT: A Culinary Journey

If there’s one thing Florence is renowned for besides its stunning Renaissance architecture and rich history, it’s the city’s food. Florence is a gastronomic hub that attracts foodies from all over the world with its delectable dishes and unforgettable flavors. From traditional Tuscan cuisine to contemporary dishes, Florence has something to offer for everyone. In this article, we’ll guide you through the best places to eat in Florence, where you can indulge in a culinary journey and have a memorable experience.

🍝Traditional Tuscan Cuisine

Florence’s cuisine is synonymous with Tuscan cuisine, which is known for its simplicity and freshness. The city is famous for its hearty soups, succulent meats, and delicious pasta dishes prepared with fresh ingredients. Here are some of the best places to try traditional Tuscan cuisine:

1. Trattoria Mario

This small trattoria in the heart of Florence’s Mercato Centrale serves some of the city’s best traditional dishes. From ribollita (a vegetable soup) to bistecca alla fiorentina (Florentine steak), everything here is prepared fresh and served with a smile.

2. Osteria dei Centopoveri

This cozy little restaurant near the Ponte Vecchio is known for its delicious pasta dishes. Try the pappardelle al cinghiale (pasta with wild boar sauce) or the ravioli di pecorino con salsa di noci (ravioli with pecorino cheese and walnut sauce).

3. La Giostra

If you’re looking for a romantic and elegant dining experience, head to La Giostra. This restaurant is located in a former medieval tower and serves traditional Tuscan cuisine with a twist. Try the pappa al pomodoro (tomato soup) or the risotto al tartufo (risotto with truffles).

🌮International Cuisine

Florence is not only known for its traditional Tuscan cuisine but also for its international cuisine. The city has a diverse range of restaurants that serve everything from Japanese sushi to American burgers. Here are some of the best places to try international cuisine in Florence:

4. Osteria del Caffe Italiano

This cozy restaurant near Santa Croce serves not only Tuscan cuisine but also international dishes. Try the tuna tataki or the beef burger with truffle cheese.

5. Il Santo Bevitore

If you’re looking for a modern twist on traditional Tuscan cuisine, head to Il Santo Bevitore. This chic restaurant near the Pitti Palace serves contemporary Italian cuisine with an international flair. Try the lamb with ginger and lemongrass or the spaghetti with sea urchins.

6. Sushimestiere

If you’re craving sushi, head to Sushimestiere. This small restaurant near the Duomo serves some of the best sushi in Florence. Try the nigiri with fatty tuna or the sashimi with sea bream.

🍦Desserts and Gelato

No culinary journey in Florence is complete without indulging in its famous desserts and gelato. Florence is known for its rich and creamy gelato, which is made with fresh ingredients and comes in a variety of flavors. Here are some of the best places to try desserts and gelato in Florence:

7. La Carraia

This small gelateria near the Ponte alla Carraia serves some of the best gelato in Florence. Try the pistachio or the stracciatella.

8. La Strega Nocciola

If you’re looking for something sweet, head to La Strega Nocciola. This pastry shop near Santa Maria Novella serves delicious pastries and cakes. Try the tiramisu or the crostata di frutta (fruit tart).

9. Gelateria dei Neri

This popular gelateria near Santa Croce serves some of the creamiest gelato in Florence. Try the chocolate or the hazelnut.

🍷Wine Bars and Aperitivo

In Florence, aperitivo is a ritual that takes place before dinner. It’s a time to relax with friends, sip on a glass of wine, and enjoy some light snacks. Here are some of the best places to enjoy aperitivo in Florence:

10. Se.sto on Arno

This rooftop bar near the Ponte Vecchio offers stunning views of the Arno River and the city. Enjoy a glass of wine and some snacks while watching the sunset.

11. Le Volpi e l’Uva

If you’re looking for a cozy and intimate atmosphere, head to Le Volpi e l’Uva. This wine bar near Santa Croce serves a variety of wines and light snacks. Try the cheese and meat platter.

12. Zoe

This trendy bar near San Lorenzo serves some of the best cocktails in Florence. Enjoy a Negroni or an Aperol Spritz with some light snacks.

FAQs

1. What is the best time to visit Florence?

The best time to visit Florence is from April to June or from September to November when the weather is mild and the crowds are fewer.

2. What is the traditional Tuscan dish?

The traditional Tuscan dish is bistecca alla fiorentina, which is a T-bone steak grilled over charcoal and served rare.

3. What is the typical Tuscan wine?

The typical Tuscan wine is Chianti, which is made from Sangiovese grapes and has a fruity and dry taste.

4. What is aperitivo?

Aperitivo is a ritual in Italy that takes place before dinner. It’s a time to relax with friends, sip on a glass of wine, and enjoy some light snacks.

5. What is the difference between gelato and ice cream?

The main difference between gelato and ice cream is that gelato is made with milk instead of cream, which gives it a denser and creamier texture.

6. What is the dress code in Florence?

The dress code in Florence is casual but respectful. Avoid wearing shorts, tank tops, or flip flops when visiting churches or museums.

7. What is the currency used in Florence?

The currency used in Florence is the Euro.

Conclusion

Florence is a city that delights all the senses, and its food is no exception. From traditional Tuscan cuisine to international dishes, Florence has something to offer for everyone. We hope this article has given you a taste of the best places to eat in Florence and that you’ll enjoy a memorable culinary journey in this beautiful city.

Don’t forget to try the gelato!

Disclaimer: The information in this article is accurate at the time of writing. However, due to the constantly changing nature of restaurants, prices, and menus, we advise that you check with the individual restaurant before visiting.