Top 10 Places to Eat in Florence When You Are Over Italian Food
So I LOVE Italian food, but I have to be honest and say that sometimes I need a break from all the pasta. If you are staying in Italy long enough, that will certainly happen to you. To save you from breaking down and heading to McDonald’s, here are my top 10 recommendations for when you are over Italian food and need to mix things up a bit.
The Diner €€
When you are craving some American cuisine, or a good old-fashioned burger, the Diner is the place to go. The good food, friendly staff, and fun atmosphere never fail to make me feel like I’m back at home. The Diner is the perfect stop for anything from bagels and eggs to club sandwiches and fries. Go on Wednesdays to enjoy a free iced coffee with your meal!
El Chico’s €€
For lovers of Mexican food, you will not want to miss out on El Chico’s. Burritos, tacos, and margaritas are sure to cure your need for something different in Florence. Bonus: it’s open late, so you can head over after a night out and satisfy your late night hunger.
Red Garter €€
Red Garter is one of Firenze’s most famous bars, and they also have a variety of delicious food. Their huge burgers, many different flavors of wings, and the only buffalo chicken sandwich in Florence are some of the most popular menu items. Don’t miss out on Taco Tuesday or wing Wednesdays and Thursdays. My friends and I love coming here to eat and watch football on Sundays, and we love all the staff!
Lovelife €€
As a smoothie addict, one of my favorite places in Florence is Lovelife. This café is a great place for healthy eaters, or those who have consumed a few too many carbs since moving to Italy (aka me). Order a smoothie, parfait, or build your own salad at their salad bar. You will be feeling cleansed in no time!
Le Vespe €€
If you are a brunch addict like myself, Le Vespe will satisfy all of your brunch needs. They serve delicious smoothies, traditional North American brunch fair, salads, and entrees until 4pm and each dish has gourmet flair. The chef is fantastic, and the atmosphere is very welcoming, there are even board games available to play!
Tijuana €€€
For a more sit down Mexican dining experience, head to Tijuana. They have an extensive menu of delicious traditional Mexican fair, as well as incredible margaritas.
Mesopotamia €
One of my favorite places for late night eats is Mesopotamia, where you can find the best kebabs in Florence. The workers are friendly, and are always incredibly sweet when I customize my kebab order. A great place to grab food on the go!
Lion’s Fountain €€
Also one of Firenze’s most popular bars, this Irish pub serves a variety of pub food including a brunch plate complete with a hot dog, chicken breast, bacon, toast, and two eggs, burgers, sandwiches, and more. Pro tip: Head over on Tuesdays for 35 cent wings—they’re great!
Il Principe €€
If you are looking for one of the best, and certainly most customizable burgers in Florence, then you will love Il Principe. You have the opportunity to build your own burger by filling out a checklist with all of the toppings you’d like and enjoy one of the freshest burgers in Firenze.
Star Chicken €€
I am a chicken nugget addict, so I was incredibly excited to try out Star Chicken for the first time, and it did not disappoint. Unlike “fast food” in the United States, this chicken takes a while to make, and is so worth the wait. The meat is tender, juicy, and the fries and BBQ sauce are delicious.
Bonus:
Salamanca €€€
If you love live music and want to sample some Spanish cuisine, then Salamanca is the best spot in town. On Tuesday nights they have a live salsa band, so head over for tapas, order their famed sangria pitchers, and try out your salsa moves when you get a chance!
Those are my favorite spots! Do you have any other places you love to go for something different?
