Many of us flock to Florence, the Tuscan capital, for the romantic Renaissance city's stellar sights, such as the Duomo, the Uffizi Gallery, and the Ponte Vecchio. But others follow their noses straight to the aromas wafting from the kitchens of some of the best restaurants in Florence.
Florentine food can be sampled in a centuries-old trattoria on a sun-drenched street or at a bustling food market. And of course, you’ll need something to wash it all down with – as the gateway to Tuscany’s celebrated wine country, Florence also boasts some of the best wines in the world and is just 30 mi from the Chianti region.
The food in Florence is hearty, ranging from thick, rich boar ragù to thick bone-in steaks and lampredotto (thinly sliced tripe). Then there are the seasonal delights: spring peas, beans, artichokes, and asparagus; zucchini in summer; truffles in fall; and broccoli, carrots, and kale in winter.
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Trattoria Sabatino
This family-run spot on Via Pisana has been serving easy-on-the-wallet pasta dishes since 1956. The atmospheric, whitewashed interior, complete with arches and a terracotta-tiled floor, is as traditional as they come. For a few euros you can sample simple, homestyle cooking like sausage with beans and pasta dishes perfect for sharing.
Alla Vecchia Bettola
What more could you want from a traditional trattoria than Chianti bottles clad in straw, prosciutto hanging from the ceiling, and long marble-topped tables? This place offers fuss-free, homey food, including the classic bistecca alla fiorentina (beefsteak Florentine style), Tuscan bread-based pappa al pomodoro, and vodka pasta.
Osteria dell'Agnolo
On Via Borgo San Lorenzo, this traditional tavern replenishes any energy spent sightseeing, with firmly local dishes like lampredotto, and ribollita – a delicious Tuscan bread soup with vegetables.
Budellino Wine Bar & Café
The humble sandwich is elevated to an art form at this tourist-free neighborhood restaurant and wine bar on Via della Condotta. The sandwiches, sweetly named after Florentine districts – like Santo Spirito, Santa Croce, and Santa Maria Novella – include slices of prosciutto and salami.
Trattoria Sostanza
Another Florentine institution where seasonal must-trys include artichoke omelette and butter chicken (petti di pollo al burro). Get cozy with your fellow diners under a rustic vaulted ceiling on communal tables at this fuss-free trattoria on Via del Porcellana.
Trattoria Marione
When you see a trattoria filled with Italians enjoying lunch or dinner with friends, you know it’s a good spot. This old-school charmer is located on the vibey Via della Spada.
Aside from seasonal specials, be sure to order the ribollita.
Fun Florentine food fact: The bread in Florence lacks salt. One theory as to where this centuries-old tradition stems from dates to the 12th century when there was a conflict between Florence and Pisa. And Pisa, which controlled the port, cut off the salt supply to Florence. So, embrace the slightly “blander” offering by dipping it merrily into rich pasta sauces and ragùs.
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Take the food train to Florence, Italy
Several high-speed trains serve Florence, including a quick 1h 19m train from Rome and a speedy under-two-hours trip from Milan. Coming from somewhere else in Italy? No problem. Regional trains connect with most other cities and towns. In short: It’s easy to book a trip to Florence with Trainline. Oh, and enjoy the scenic views as you go.
Header Image Credit: Getty Images, Gary Yeowell. Image Location: Florence, Italy