Delicious Places to Eat in Florence, Italy

Florence, a city close to our hearts, offers stunning views, art, beautiful architecture, and unforgettable meals at some of our favorite places that beckon us time and time again. The food alone is reason enough to keep returning.

Family and friends often seek our recommendations, prompting us to curate a list of must-visit eateries we’ve fallen in love with over the years. Here, we share our favorite places to eat in Florence to help you navigate where to eat as a first-timer in a new city.

During our last trip in October 2022, we noticed the city’s dining landscape evolving, with many new establishments making their mark. Consequently, making reservations has become important to ensure a spot at popular restaurants.

Despite these changes, we always make time for our beloved spots. Whether you’re craving quick bites or a traditional Tuscan meal, our list highlights our favorites that will satisfy you.

Please note that our list isn’t exhaustive; it includes only the places we genuinely enjoy.

Every time we’re in Florence, one spot we can’t skip is Trattoria Sostanza. Their mouthwatering buttered chicken—crispy on the outside, buttery, and meltingly tender inside—is heavenly. We had it with a side of Tuscan beans, which are in season in the fall when we visit.

They’re not just about chicken, though. The Florentine steak and artichoke pie are also amazing. Dining at Trattoria Sostanza is like being invited into a Florentine home; the family that runs the place is super welcoming. Pre-pandemic, they’d even let you peek behind the scenes and watch them cook on their antique stove.

Here’s a tip: it’s cash only, and you’ll be sharing tables, which adds to the charm. And trust me, you’ll want to clean your plate—they expect nothing less. Also, no matter how full you are, you can’t leave without trying their Raspberry Meringue Cake. Note that normally, they serve the cake with wild raspberries, but sometimes, depending on the crops from the season, they have no choice but to serve it with regular raspberries.

Reserve a table—it’s an absolute must to avoid disappointment. They have two seatings every night, and they are always booked.

Peek inside Acquacotta Trattoriaf from outside. The chef in the distance was chatting with a customer.

Stepping into Acquacotta Trattoria feels like walking into Nonna’s house for dinner. The ambiance is cozy, the food feels like a warm hug, and the service is wonderfully personal.

At first, we half-expected to find Nonna herself bustling around the kitchen! Instead, we discovered that a charming husband-and-wife team runs the show. He’s the magician in the kitchen, while she brings the magic to the front of the house, making an unbeatable duo that serves up soul-warming dishes.

We saved a visit here for our last night in Florence this trip, indulging in some of our favorite Tuscan specialties. We started with heavenly crostini al lardo and Tuscan prosciutto DOP paired with truffle pecorino. The ribollita and tagliatelle with wild boar ragout followed, each bite better than the last. We shared roasted Chianti pork with the crispiest baked potatoes for our entree. And we couldn’t leave without having the Millefoglie—a dessert to remember.

We first dined here over 10 years ago on a recommendation from our favorite B&B, and each time we pay the bill, we promise, “We’ll be back!”

Do make a reservation—it’s essential!

Nestled in the heart of Florence, Ristorante Del Fagioli is a cozy tavern where the aroma of traditional dishes fills the air, attracting a lively mix of locals and tourists. Friendly locals directed us there during our first visit 10+ years ago, praising it as the spot for an authentic Bistecca alla Fiorentina.

So, what exactly sets apart a Florentine steak? It starts with the Chianina cattle, a local breed known for its superb quality. Before cooking, they present the raw steak at your table for approval—a ritual that surprised but thrilled us.

We paired our steak with Tuscan white beans, fresh spinach, and a house Chianti. I can confidently say it’s one of the best cuts of meat we’ve ever enjoyed. Each bite was tender and flawlessly prepared, making it a highlight of our culinary adventures in Firenze.

Remember, it’s cash only here, and you’d want to book in advance to snag a spot!

Just a stone’s throw from the bustling South Side of Ponte Vecchio lies Osteria del Cinghiale Bianco, housed within the walls of a 14th-century tower that exudes medieval charm the moment you step inside.

You might have spotted this gem on Stanley Tucci’s “Searching for Italy” Tuscany episode, but we’ve been fans for over a decade. The name—Cinghiale Bianco or White Boar—hints at the rustic and hearty Tuscan fare they serve, making it a cherished spot in Florence.

Deciding what to order is always the hardest part. Everything on the menu looks inviting, tempting you to try it all. On our most recent visit, we indulged in a plate of tagliolini al tartufo—simple yet spectacular with perfectly al dente pasta and aromatic, savory truffles. The pappardelle with wild boar ragù is another standout, offering comfort in every bite.

We couldn’t resist the wild boar steak for our entrée, bathed in a delectable wine sauce reduction—so good you’ll want to dip everything in it.

For dessert, we savored cream puffs drizzled with rich chocolate—a sweet end to our meal. But the true standout was the separate dessert: these thin buttery cookies, which translate into “cat tongues” in English, paired with creamy mascarpone. This dessert brought back fond childhood memories for my hubby, making it a favorite close to his heart.

The place is always lively, filled with locals and tourists enjoying their meals, so securing a reservation is necessary. If Cinghiale Bianco is fully booked, try its sister restaurant, Osteria del Pavone. While we haven’t been yet, the buzz is equally positive.

Nestled in the lively Santa Croce neighborhood, Pino’s Sandwiches, known as Salumeria Verdi, is a cherished spot for an authentic Florentine panini. Years ago, we could pop into this cozy salumeria for a casual afternoon, enjoying a glass of wine and a platter of salumi or panino while watching the bustle of locals grabbing a bite or a quick drink.

Today, as Florence has become a tourist hub, you might find yourself in a line, especially during the busy afternoon. Yet, it’s not as overwhelmingly crowded as All’Antico Vinaio, and you’ll still see plenty of locals here, enjoying their meals both inside and outside.

Despite the growth in tourism around Florence, Pino’s offers delicious sandwiches at great prices. It’s our go-to place for paninis, remaining a favorite among residents for its quality and atmosphere.

While paninis are the star, don’t miss out on the other delightful offerings on their menu.

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Right in the bustling heart of Florence, steps from the Uffizi, you’ll find All’Antico Vinaio—an icon for panini lovers. Over the past decade, this spot has not only grown in popularity but also in size, now boasting four locations along the same street. Yes, each one typically sports a lengthy queue!

Their recent expansion to New York City and Los Angeles marks their status as a world-renowned destination for sandwich enthusiasts. But don’t let the word ‘sandwich’ fool you—All’Antico Vinaio’s creations are a culinary adventure. These aren’t your ordinary sandwiches; they are an art form packed with local Italian cold cuts, unique creamy sauces, and a generous smear of bold flavors.

While you could opt for a simple salumi and Formaggio elsewhere, their lavish fillings set them apart. The paninis here are substantial, savory, and utterly decadent. Choose your own adventure by picking from the menu board, or let the experts surprise you with their favorite combinations.

Our recommendation? Grab one of these legendary sandwiches and stroll down to the River Arno for an unforgettable dining experience al fresco. Although we missed out on this last time, the rave reviews and past visits assure us it is worth the hype if it’s your first time.

When in Italy, skipping pizza is simply not an option. Just a short walk from Palazzo Pitti, Gusta Pizza offers one of the most delicious pizzas in Florence. It’s no wonder Guy Fieri spotlighted this spot on Diners, Drive-ins, and Dives—he knew what he was talking about, and it quickly topped our list of favorites in Florence, too.

Do yourself a favor and go for the classic Margherita, but don’t forget to add a dash of their special hot sauce for an extra kick.

Mercato Centrale

The Mercato Centrale in Florence is a must-visit for food lovers, whether you’re looking to cook up local ingredients back at your vacation rental or enjoy some ready-to-eat treats. Start your visit at Conti Tuscany Flavour, a family-owned stall where you can pick up exquisite truffle honey and aged balsamic vinegar.

Don’t miss da Nerbone, a legendary food stand as old as the market itself, known for its bollito (boiled beef sandwich) with vibrant salsa verde.

Upstairs is the food hall, which is open until midnight. It offers a variety of stands serving delicious dishes at reasonable prices. It’s the perfect place to sample diverse foods, observe local shopping habits, and immerse yourself in Florentine culinary traditions.

Florence isn’t just famous for its art and architecture. It’s also said to be the birthplace of gelato. When experiencing this creamy treat, one of our top picks is Perche No! We stumbled upon this family-owned spot during a food tour on our first visit, and it has been a highlight of our Florence trips ever since.

Perche No! truly stands out in a city teeming with gelato shops. They make all their gelato fresh in-house daily, offering a creamy texture and delicious rich flavors. Don’t forget to top your scoop with some Panna (whipped cream) for that ultimate indulgence.

If there’s one rule in Florence, treat yourself to gelato as often as possible—daily, even. Each authentic gelateria has its own charm, but Gelateria dei Neri holds a special place on our list. They’ve been churning out their homemade goodness since 1989. I always go for the rich and tropical Coco, but my hubby’s a die-hard for the classic Stracciatella, and this time, he combined it with their Melon gelato. Pro tip: Try one of their unique flavors, which depends on the season of local fruits and produce.

Every trip to Florence includes a stop at Signorvino for aperitivo. This wine shop and restaurant isn’t just about the drinks and small bites—it’s about the view. Snagging a seat on the terrace means you’re in for a treat with one of the best views of the Ponte Vecchio. We always hope for an outdoor table, but the view is still amazing by the window. Plus, it’s a great spot to come to with friends.

Cafe Rivoire

Right across from the majestic replica of Michelangelo’s David in Piazza Della Signoria lies Cafe Rivoire—a haven for chocolate aficionados. Their hot chocolate is legendary, boasting a thick, rich, smooth, and creamy texture that’s simply irresistible. For the ultimate treat, don’t forget to top it off with a dollop of panna (whipped cream).

Cafe Rivoire has produced exquisite Italian chocolates for over 150 years, making it a true Florentine institution. Even if you can’t finish the decadent hot chocolate in one sitting, every sip is worth savoring.

While here, why not take home a few of their finest chocolates and enjoy an espresso? But perhaps the best part is soaking in the atmosphere outside the cafe, sipping on hot chocolate and espresso, all while admiring the bustling beauty of Piazza della Signoria.

BEFORE YOU TRAVEL TO ITALY, CHECK OUT THESE RELATED READS:

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