30 Great Places To Eat & Drink In Florence
Italy is famous for its food, and for good reason. However, not all restaurants are created equal. In my year living in Florence, I was lucky enough to eat my way through many of the city’s dining establishments, and have sorted through the good, bad, and the touristy to bring you this list! Though this is by no means a comprehensive account of all the amazing places to eat and drink, it’s a great place to get started. From my favorite pizzerias, ristorantes, and cafes to my most frequented bars and aperitivo spots, I hope you enjoy! Buon appetito!
Italian Ristorante
Osteria Santo Spirito is one of the first restaurants I truly loved in Florence and to this day is one of my favorites. Seriously, you may need a reservation to get a table! Their gnocchi is famous (and for good reason!) , and I also enjoy their spaghetti alle vongole.
Ristorante La Giostra – €€€
In my opinion, La Giostra is Florence’s most romantic restaurant. The Christmas light ceiling, candle lit dining area, and fantastic food make it a perfect place for a date. If you are visiting Florence, a meal here is a must! Their pear ravioli is incredible, and you’ll be greeted with a complimentary glass of prosecco!
Aqua al 2 – €€
Aqua al due is known for its unique blueberry steak. And let me assure you, it does not disappoint. I also recommend ordering the pasta sampler, a selection of 5 specialty pastas that will give you give you an idea of what the rest of the menu is like. The food is good and atmosphere welcoming.
Trattoria Za Za – €€
Za Zas is my favorite place to eat near Santa Maria Novella. They have a large menu, so you’ll be sure to find something for everyone. The interior is uniquely decorated, and they have a large outdoor seating area making it the perfect pic for a summer lunch.
Ristorante La Reggia degli Etruschi – €€€
If you are searching for an excellent restaurant with an equally good view, a quick bus ride will put you near ristorante La Reggia. Situated high over Florence, you’ll be able to enjoy a meal overlooking the valley below. Call early to reserve a seat with a view, and save room for dessert, their trio is insanely good!
Il Chicco di Caffe – €€
I first came here on a recommendation from a local, and have since been back many times. The menu is constantly changing, but everything I’ve ever ordered has been delicious. I also enjoyed the communal seating there, as it’s a great opportunity to meet new people. One of my favorite hidden spots for sure.
Panini
Salumeria Verdi aka Pinos – €
Pinos is my all time favorite place to get a panini in Florence. Seriously, it’s amazing. It’s a family run panini shop, and the owner and his family are some of the nicest people I’ve met in Florence! If you find yourself to be a regular too, be sure to ask Pino about his wine tastings! They are so much fun for a group and a great way to learn about wine.
Oil Shoppe – €
If you are in the mood for more of a sub than a panini, head on over to the Oil Shoppe. The owners are incredibly sweet and take pride in the freshness of their ingredients. My favorite sandwich is the Spicy Chicken Parmesean-it’s fantastic, and I’d recommend trying it before experimenting with other sandwiches on their extensive menu.
Pizzeria
Gusta Pizza – €
Gusta pizza is probably the most famous pizzeria in Florence, and for good reason. If you are searching for delicious, authentic pizza, this is the spot to hit. Eat it inside, or take it to go and enjoy on the steps of Santo Spirito. Pro tip: ask for a heart shape pizza for the perfect Instagram pic!
Cafes
Ditta Artigianale – €€
Ditta Artigianale is one of my favorite cafes in Firenze. The atmosphere is fun with a dash of hipster vibes. Amazing cappuccini by day, fun bar at night, you can’t go wrong with a visit! In fact, it’s so popular there are two locations!
La Menagere – €€
La Menagere is my #1 spot in Florence for girl dates. It’s open, trendy interior is adorned with fresh flowers, and the salads, pastries, and of course coffee are incredible.
News Cafe – €
Searching for the worlds most instagram-able cappuccino? Look no further than News Cafe. Each cup comes with cute (and delicious) latte art drawn into the foam. The prettiest coffee I ever did see.
Looking for more great cafes? Check out this post for my 6 favorite cafes in Florence!
Aperitivo
If you aren’t familiar, aperitivo is Italy’s version of happy hour. For around 7-10 Euros you get a drink+food…it’s a great deal. Typically food is a small selection of snacks, but in Florence aperitivo can count as dinner, if you aren’t worried about filling up your plate a few times!
Kitsch – €€
Kitsch is one of Florence’s most popular aperitivo places. In fact, there are even two locations! It’s well known for its variety and good cocktails. My boyfriend loves it because he finds the most food here.
Soul Kitchen – €€
Soul kitchen is my favorite aperitivo location. I love the cocktails, especially the Moscow Mule, and the snack selection is great too! Try the fried cheese, it’s amazing. I also love Soul Kitchen because of its central location, and the relaxed vibe inside.
Gelato
Gelateria Dei Neri will always be my #1 when it comes to gelato in Florence, and it is renown for its delicious flavors and authenticity. Try the carmel-it’s divine. Their pastries and granitas are also worth trying. You really can’t go wrong!
Generally I tell people to avoid eating near large tourist attractions, however, Gelateria Edoardo is certainly an exception to that rule! So go ahead-embrace your inner tourist and enjoy a cone near the Duomo. The gelato flavors are fantastic-I’ve never had one I didn’t enjoy!
Don Nino – €
Also located next to the Duomo, this cute gelateria has a welcoming interior space perfect for sitting down in and enjoying a treat. Their pastries are also worth a try in case you (like me) have consumed much too much gelato.
Marco Ottaviano il Gelato Gourmet – €
The gelato here is made with fresh, real ingredients, and you can certainly tell in the taste! My favorite flavor? Peanut!
Finisterrae – €€
The pastries at Finisterrae are to die for. I’m particularly obsessed with their cannoli, but honestly all of their desserts are worth a try. The food here is delicious as well, as is the coffee. An all around great restaurant!
Are you a gelato connoisseur? Why not try hitting the top 10 gelaterias in Florence?
Rooftop Bars
It’s no secret that I love rooftop bars, and it just so happen that Florence’s have some pretty spectacular views.
Westin Excelsior – €€€
The Westin is hands down my favorite rooftop bar in Florence. It’s views of the Arno and Ponte Vecchio are unparalleled. The fantastic view comes with a high price, 20 Euro for aperitivo. (A great splurge though, if you ask me!)
Hotel Cavour – €€€
12 Euros will get you a cocktail and one of the best views of Florence’s Duomo. I recommend going in the evening so you can catch the sunset and see the city all lit up at night!
For more great rooftop recommendations, read all about my favorite rooftops in Florence here!
American Food
The Diner – €€
Don’t get me wrong, I LOVE Italian food. However, there is only so much pasta and pizza one can take before you start craving a burger. When that happens, head straight to The Diner, and be sure to read the ultimate guide to The Diner Florence before you go! Great burgers, shakes, and usual diner fare. P.S. Don’t forget to try the key-lime pie!
Le Vespe Cafe – €€
For Florence’s best brunch, look no further than Le Vespe Cafe. This cute place takes a gourmet approach to brunch items, and has a great selection of salads and smoothies, although my favorite menu item is the french toast, with a side of bacon of course!
Star Chicken – €€
I’ll be honest, my guilty pleasure back in the states is fried chicken and french fries. If yours is too, skip a trip to Firenze’s McDonald’s and head to Star Chicken instead. The chicken is juicer and fried to perfection. Who knew some of the most delicious fried chicken I’ve ever had could be found in Florence?!
Bars
Uncle Jimmy’s – €
Uncle Jimmy’s is my all-time favorite bar in Florence. When I was living in the city I even would help out with their Flip Cup event every once in a while. From the friendly bartenders to the bras on the ceiling to the chance to sign your name on the wall, UJ’s is a great place for a night out. It’s very popular with American study abroad students, less so among local Florentines.
Lion’s Fountain – €
Lion’s Fountain Irish Pub is another great option, particularly to begin a night out. It’s fantastic location and great vibes make it popular amongst foreigners and locals alike (you’ll find it filled with Italians during a Fiorentina match!) If you are missing wings, pop by on a Tuesday for 35 cent wings!
Don Dino’s– €
I was first introduced to this bar because it was extremely close to my apartment, and soon became a regular. The drinks are good, interior unique and cozy, and the outdoor seating offers an amazing view of Santa Croce. It doesn’t get extremely crowded or blasts music, but is a great spot to grab a drink or a gelato (try the Don Dino flavor!)
Gallery – €
Yummy drinks, coffee, and aperitivo in a great location-what more could you ask for? I’d often stop in with a girl friend for an afternoon prosecco. A fun, quirky place to grab a drink with friendly and inviting staff.
To discover some of Florence’s lesser-known bars, try visiting the 13 Florence Bars You Haven’t Heard Of (But Should!)
Asian
Buddakan – €€
I typically avoid getting Asan food in Florence, as many of the places I have tried are rather disappointing. Buddhakan, however, is an exception. While the menu isn’t incredibly large, everything I’ve ordered from dumplings to spicy pork has been good. They also have take out, so it’s perfect if you are in a rush or want to dine at home. The restaurant does cater to tour groups, so get there early to avoid a rush!
Well, I think I’ve covered just about every genre of food in Florence, but certainly not every restaurant! Which ones are missing from the list? Do you have any suggestions or favorites I simply must go to? Let me know in the comments, I can’t wait to try them!
For more Florence food tips, click here, or check out these popular posts!
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- 5 Scenic Rooftop Bars To Hit In Florence
- 6 Cafes in Florence Guaranteed to Satisfy Your Addiction to Coffee
- The Ultimate Florence Study Abroad Bucket List: 50 Things To Do Before Your Leave
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Hi Catalina!
Your blog had given me so many great tips all throughout my study abroad in Florence last Fall. I had one of the best dinners of all time at Acqua al 2!
If you haven’t yet, check out Santa Trinita Gelatería.. I can’t wait to return for their panna cotta gelato.
Thank you for all of the advice and happy travels!
Hi Magnolia! I’m so glad you found it helpful last fall, I’ve clearly been working on it since! Aqua al 2 is a favorite of mine as well! I have been to Santa Trinita Gelatería also-very yummy, although I must admit dei Neri is my favorite! I wish you many more travels, and enjoyed checking out your blog as well!