My Food Days in Florence, from Breakfast to Dinner
Florence is a paradise for food lovers.
Whether you're in the mood for a quick bite, a leisurely lunch, or a hearty dinner, this city has something to offer.
Let’s break down where to eat in Florence, from your morning coffee to a late-night dessert.
Breakfast and Mid-Morning Snack
Start Your Day Right: Coffee at Ditta Artigianale
What's better than a coffee to kick off your day?
Head over to Ditta Artigianale, a young and trendy spot where you can enjoy top-notch espresso.
They offer single-origin blends and filtered coffee, perfect for both coffee aficionados and newbies.
Info
Ditta Artigianale
Via dei Neri, 32/R, 50122 Firenze
Tel. 055 274 1541
Via Dello Sprone 5r
+39 055 045 7163
www.dittaartigianale.it
Taste Florence’s Street Food: Lampredotto
Coffee makes you hungry, and in Florence, you can’t stay hungry for long.
Lampredotto is a traditional street food made from one of the cow's stomachs, boiled and served in a panino with a green sauce made of parsley and garlic, or in a bowl with potatoes. It’s a must-try, and it wouldn’t be a true Florentine trip without it.
Favorite Stalls:
- Sergio Pollini: Via dei Macci, 126, 50122 Firenze
- Chiosco del Lampredotto: Via Val di Lamona, 1R, 50123 Firenze
Cantucci and Vinsanto
Are you more of a sweet person?
Wrap up your day with some cantucci and vinsanto from Il Cantuccio di San Lorenzo. These almond cookies are perfect for dipping in sweet wine.
You can get the classic ones as well as variations like figs and orange zest, or chocolate. They are amazing, not cheap (26€/kg) but a great souvenir for your return trip.
Info
Il Cantuccio di San Lorenzo
Via Sant'Antonino, 23/red, 50123 Firenze
Tel. 055 290034
www.ilcantucciodisanlorenzo.it
Lunch
Market Madness: Mercato Sant'Ambrogio
I love food markets because they reveal so much about a city's culture. Mercato Sant'Ambrogio is an authentic indoor market with a variety of fresh produce and local delicacies.
Trattoria Da Rocco inside the market is a gem. It's simple, cheap, and serves classic soups like pappa al pomodoro and ribollita. Plus, the old man with a mustache there will entertain you with jokes once he realizes you’re not a local.
Info
Mercato di Sant'Ambrogio
Piazza Lorenzo Ghiberti, 50122 Firenze
Tel. 055 234 3950
www.mercatosantambrogio.it
Classic Fiorentina Steak: Natalino
For a classic sit-down meal, check out Ristorante Natalino. It’s adorned with portraits of famous music and theatre stars who have dined there. The Fiorentina steak is a must-order, but whatever you do, don’t ask for it well done!
Info
Ristorante Natalino
Borgo degli Albizi, 17r, 50122 Firenze
Tel. 055 289404
I’Brindellone
Tucked away from the busy historic center, there's this local Florentine spot.
It's not swarming with tourists, just locals and workers on break.
The star here?
The Florentine steak. Perfectly cooked with a crispy crust and juicy inside. It’s tall, tender, and mouthwatering. The vibe is super friendly, like you're hanging out with friends.
So don't enter if you're wearing a Juventus shirt or you'll probably end up in the grill with the steak.
Info
I’Brindellone
Piazza Piattellina, 10, 50124 Firenze FI
Tel. +39 055217879
Dinner
Zeb
In the San Niccolò neighborhood, you’ll find Zeb, a hybrid of a food shop and a restaurant. The name stands for zuppa e bollito (soup and boiled meat), so you know what to order. They also take great care with their wine selection.
Info
Zeb
Via S. Miniato, 2/r, 50125 Firenze
Tel. 055 234 2864
www.zebgastronomia.com
Touristy but Worth It: Mercato Centrale
Mercato Centrale is a must-visit.
Designed by Mengoni architect in the late 1800s, the same as Galleria Vittorio Emanuele in Milan, it's a fascinating structure divided into 2 floors.
The ground floor is a traditional food market, while the first floor is a modern space with various food stalls.
Try the meat from Savigni or the Naples-style pizza from Pizzeria Sud.
Info
Mercato Centrale
Piazza del Mercato Centrale, Via dell'Ariento, 50123 Firenze FI
mercatocentrale.it
Florence is a city that never lets you go hungry.
From breakfast coffee to a hearty dinner, these spots will ensure you experience the best of Florentine cuisine.