Florence is renowned for its rich cultural heritage, stunning architecture, and culinary scene that will leave food enthusiasts craving for more. The city offers a remarkable array of delectable dishes, blending traditional Tuscan flavors with modern culinary techniques. From savory antipasti to mouthwatering pasta dishes, sumptuous main courses, and delightful desserts, Florence boasts a vibrant gastronomic culture that will tantalize your taste buds and leave you yearning for another bite. We explore the top things to eat in Florence, taking you on a gastronomic journey through the heart of Tuscany.
Bistecca alla Fiorentina (Florentine T-Bone Steak)
When it comes to iconic Florentine cuisine, the Bistecca alla Fiorentina reigns supreme. This legendary dish is a thick-cut T-bone steak, traditionally sourced from locally raised Chianina cattle. The steak is seasoned with olive oil, salt, and pepper before being cooked over a wood-fired grill. The result is a succulent, charred exterior with a juicy, tender center. Bistecca alla Fiorentina is typically served rare to medium-rare and is meant to be shared among friends or family, making it a true Tuscan dining experience. It’s one of the must things to eat in Florence.
Where to Eat:
- Trattoria Mario: Located near the Mercato Centrale, Trattoria Mario is known for its traditional Tuscan dishes, including a delicious Bistecca alla Fiorentina.
- Osteria del Cinghiale Bianco: This charming restaurant specializes in Tuscan cuisine, and their Bistecca alla Fiorentina is a highlight of the menu.
Lampredotto (Florentine Street Food)
For a taste of Florence’s vibrant street food scene, look no further than Lampredotto. This traditional dish features the fourth stomach of the cow, slow-cooked with aromatic herbs and served as a sandwich in a crusty roll. The lampredotto is often accompanied by salsa verde, a piquant sauce made from parsley, garlic, capers, anchovies, and olive oil. Despite its humble origins, Lampredotto has become a beloved staple among locals and visitors alike, offering a unique and flavorsome street food experience, and making it one of the top things to eat in Florence.
Where to Eat:
- Nerbone: Situated in the bustling Mercato Centrale, Nerbone is a legendary spot for Lampredotto sandwiches, serving them with the traditional salsa verde.
- Da Nerbone al Boccale: Another popular choice for Lampredotto, this small eatery near the San Lorenzo Market is known for its flavorful Lampredotto in a crusty roll.
Cinghiale alla Fiorentina (Wild Boar Stew)
Wild boar is a staple of Tuscan cuisine, and Cinghiale alla Fiorentina showcases the region’s love for this game meat. The stew is made by slowly cooking marinated wild boar in a rich tomato-based sauce, complemented by aromatic herbs, red wine, and vegetables. The result is tender, flavorful meat with a robust sauce that pairs perfectly with polenta or freshly made pasta. As one of the unique things to eat in Florence, Cinghiale alla Fiorentina offers a taste of the wild side of Florence’s culinary heritage and is a must-try for meat lovers.
Where to Eat:
- Trattoria Cibreo: A beloved restaurant in Florence, Trattoria Cibreo is known for its innovative Tuscan cuisine. Try their Cinghiale alla Fiorentina for a flavorful wild boar stew experience.
- Il Latini: As mentioned earlier, Il Latini also serves a delicious Cinghiale alla Fiorentina, making it an excellent choice for indulging in this Tuscan specialty.
Pappardelle al Cinghiale (Pappardelle with Wild Boar Sauce)
Pappardelle al Cinghiale is a classic Tuscan pasta dish that features wide, flat ribbons of pasta known as pappardelle, tossed in a rich and flavorful sauce made from slow-cooked wild boar. The wild boar meat is braised until tender, creating a robust and hearty sauce that beautifully coats the pappardelle. The combination of the tender pasta and the savory, gamey flavors of the wild boar creates a truly satisfying and indulgent dish. Pappardelle al Cinghiale is a popular choice for meat lovers and showcases the rustic flavors of Tuscan cuisine.
Where to Eat:
- Trattoria Quattro Leoni: Situated in the Oltrarno district, this trattoria is known for its authentic Tuscan cuisine. Their Pappardelle al Cinghiale is a highlight, featuring tender pasta ribbons tossed in a flavorful wild boar ragu.
- Trattoria Ruggero: Located near the Santa Maria Novella train station, Trattoria Ruggero offers a delightful Pappardelle al Cinghiale, showcasing the rich flavors of wild boar in a comforting pasta dish.
Tagliatelle Funghi Porcini e Tartufo (Tagliatelle with Porcini Mushrooms and Truffle)
Tagliatelle Funghi Porcini e Tartufo is a delightful pasta dish that highlights the earthy flavors of two prized ingredients: porcini mushrooms and truffles. The tagliatelle, a type of long, ribbon-like pasta, is cooked until al dente and then tossed with a sauce made from sautéed porcini mushrooms. The dish is elevated with the addition of shaved truffles, which impart a luxurious and aromatic touch. The combination of the meaty porcini mushrooms and the intense, earthy aroma of truffles creates a decadent and memorable pasta dish that is sure to please truffle enthusiasts. Spoil yourself with one of the most delectable things to eat in Florence.
Where to Eat:
- Osteria Santo Spirito: Situated in the lively Santo Spirito neighborhood, this osteria offers a range of traditional Tuscan dishes. Indulge in their Tagliatelle Funghi Porcini e Tartufo, a heavenly combination of earthy mushrooms and fragrant truffle.
- Trattoria Pandemonio: This charming trattoria near the Pitti Palace is renowned for its rustic Tuscan fare. Don’t miss their Tagliatelle Funghi Porcini e Tartufo, which perfectly showcases the flavors of the region.
Coccoli Prosciutto e Stracchino
Coccoli Prosciutto e Stracchino is a delightful Tuscan appetizer or snack that combines simplicity with incredible flavors. Coccoli are small, lightly fried balls of dough that have a fluffy interior and a crispy exterior. They are typically served warm and accompanied by slices of prosciutto, a dry-cured Italian ham, and stracchino cheese, a creamy and mild cheese. The contrast between the warm, airy coccoli, the salty prosciutto, and the smooth stracchino creates a delightful combination of textures and flavors. This dish is often enjoyed as a starter or shared plate, and it perfectly showcases the harmony of ingredients in Tuscan cuisine.
Where to Eat:
- Trattoria ZaZa: Located near the Mercato di San Lorenzo, Trattoria ZaZa is a popular spot for traditional Tuscan cuisine. Their Coccoli Prosciutto e Stracchino, a delightful combination of fried dough balls, prosciutto, and soft cheese, is a must-try appetizer.
- Osteria Dei Baroncelli: Situated near the Ponte Vecchio, this cozy osteria offers a cozy and intimate setting. Treat yourself to their Coccoli Prosciutto e Stracchino, accompanied by a glass of local Tuscan wine.
Crostini Toscano
Crostini Toscano is one of the classic things to eat in Florence. It’s a Tuscan appetizer that features thin slices of toasted bread topped with a flavorful chicken liver pâté. The pâté is made by sautéing chicken livers with onions, garlic, herbs, and a splash of wine. The mixture is then blended until smooth and spread generously onto the crispy bread slices. The result is a combination of crunchy bread and a creamy, savory pâté that is rich in flavor and has a slightly tangy undertone. Crostini Toscano is a beloved traditional dish in Florence and is often served as a starter or part of an antipasto platter.
Where to Eat:
- Trattoria Mario: As mentioned earlier, Trattoria Mario is a classic choice for authentic Tuscan dishes. Enjoy their Crostini Toscano, which features toasted bread topped with a delicious chicken liver pâté, a staple of Tuscan cuisine.
- Osteria del Cinghiale Bianco: This charming restaurant also serves Crostini Toscano, allowing you to savor the traditional flavors of Tuscan cuisine in a cozy setting.
Pappa al Pomodoro (Tomato and Bread Soup)
Pappa al Pomodoro is a rustic Tuscan soup that perfectly captures the essence of traditional Florentine cuisine. This comforting dish combines stale bread, ripe tomatoes, garlic, basil, olive oil, and a touch of salt. The ingredients are simmered together until the bread softens and absorbs the rich tomato flavors, resulting in a thick and hearty soup. Pappa al Pomodoro is often garnished with a drizzle of olive oil and a sprinkle of fresh basil, adding freshness and fragrance to this delightful culinary creation.
Where to Eat:
- Trattoria Sostanza: A renowned establishment in Florence, Trattoria Sostanza offers a superb Pappa al Pomodoro, among other traditional Tuscan dishes.
- Osteria Tripperia Il Magazzino: This authentic eatery specializes in tripe dishes, including a flavorful Pappa al Pomodoro that will leave you satisfied.
Truffle Delicacies
Florence is nestled in the heart of Tuscany, a region renowned for its prized truffles. So you must try one of the best things to eat in Florence. These earthy, aromatic fungi take center stage in many traditional Florentine dishes. From truffle-infused oils and sauces to creamy risottos and handmade pasta, the city offers a plethora of truffle-infused delicacies. Indulge in a plate of tagliolini al tartufo, featuring delicate strands of fresh pasta dressed in a luxurious truffle sauce, or savor the earthy flavors of a truffle-infused steak. With their unique and captivating aroma, truffles add an exquisite touch to the culinary landscape of Florence.
Where to Eat:
- Ristorante Il Tartufo: Located near the Piazza del Duomo, this restaurant is dedicated to showcasing the unique flavors of truffles, offering a variety of truffle-infused dishes.
- Osteria delle Tre Panche: A hidden gem in Florence, this cozy osteria features an array of truffle-based creations, including pasta and risotto dishes.
Ribollita (Vegetable and Bread Soup)
Ribollita is a hearty and satisfying Tuscan soup that has its roots in peasant cuisine. This flavorful dish is made by combining vegetables like kale, cannellini beans, carrots, celery, onions, and tomatoes with chunks of stale bread. The soup is slowly simmered to allow the flavors to meld together, creating a thick and nourishing consistency. Ribollita is often enjoyed during the colder months and is best served drizzled with olive oil and accompanied by a glass of Chianti wine.
Where to Eat:
- Trattoria Sabatino: Located in the heart of Florence, Trattoria Sabatino is known for its traditional Tuscan dishes, including a comforting and flavorful Ribollita.
- Ristorante Il Latini: A famous Florentine institution, Ristorante Il Latini offers a warm and welcoming atmosphere along with delicious Tuscan cuisine, including their renowned Ribollita.
Cantucci (Almond Biscotti)
Cantucci, also known as biscotti di Prato, are traditional almond biscuits hailing from the city of Prato near Florence. These delightful treats are twice-baked, resulting in a crunchy texture that is perfect for dipping into Vin Santo, a sweet dessert wine. Cantucci are typically made with almonds, flour, sugar, eggs, and a hint of citrus zest, creating a harmonious balance of flavors. These biscotti are not only some of the most popular things to eat in Florence but also make for a great souvenir to bring back home and enjoy with a cup of coffee or tea.
Where to Eat:
- Antico Forno di Pugi: This historic bakery in Florence is famous for its artisanal Cantucci. Grab a bag of these almond biscotti to enjoy on the go or to bring back as a tasty souvenir.
- Dolci & Dolcezze: Located near the Ponte Vecchio, this charming bakery specializes in traditional Tuscan pastries, including Cantucci baked to perfection.
Schiacciata alla Fiorentina (Florentine Carnival Cake)
Schiacciata alla Fiorentina is a traditional cake that holds a special place in Florentine culinary culture, particularly during Carnival season. This light and fluffy dessert is made with simple ingredients such as flour, sugar, eggs, and olive oil. The cake is dusted with powdered sugar and adorned with the iconic symbol of Florence, the fleur-de-lis. The delicate orange zest in the batter adds a hint of citrusy aroma. Schiacciata alla Fiorentina is a delightful treat that captures the festive spirit of Florence and is often enjoyed with a glass of sparkling wine or a cup of hot chocolate.
Where to Eat:
- Pasticceria Sieni: This delightful pastry shop is renowned for its Schiacciata alla Fiorentina, offering a light and fluffy version of this traditional Florentine Carnival cake.
- Pasticceria Nencioni: Another recommended spot, Pasticceria Nencioni, features a delectable Schiacciata alla Fiorentina that captures the essence of this beloved Tuscan dessert.
Gelato
No visit to Florence is complete without savoring the city’s famous gelato. This creamy frozen dessert is a beloved Italian specialty, and Florence boasts numerous gelaterias that offer an extensive range of flavors. It’s a must if you’re visiting Florence with kids. From classic options like pistachio, chocolate, and stracciatella to innovative combinations such as saffron and pine nut, rosemary and orange, or ricotta and fig, the choices are endless. Wander through the picturesque streets of Florence, and you’re sure to stumble upon gelaterias that serve artisanal gelato made with high-quality ingredients, guaranteeing a truly indulgent and refreshing treat.
Where to Eat:
- Gelateria dei Neri: Situated near the Santa Croce Basilica, this gelateria is known for its exceptional gelato, with a wide range of classic and innovative flavors.
- Vivoli: A renowned gelateria in Florence, Vivoli has been serving delightful gelato since 1930 and is a must-visit for gelato enthusiasts.
Florence not only captivates visitors with its artistic heritage and architectural marvels but also tantalizes their palates with its extraordinary culinary offerings. The city’s gastronomic scene showcases the finest flavors of Tuscany, combining traditional recipes with innovative twists. Experience all the best things to eat in Florence. From savoring a succulent Bistecca alla Fiorentina to relishing the comforting Pappa al Pomodoro, exploring the diverse street food culture, indulging in truffle-infused delicacies, and treating yourself to delightful gelato, Florence provides an unrivaled culinary experience.
