What to eat in Florence
Florence captivates visitors with the beauty of its monuments and the richness of its cuisine. Tuscan cuisine is world-renowned for its use of simple and authentic ingredients that reflect the land and the changing seasons. These ingredients are used to create flavourful yet balanced dishes.
Signature dishes of Florentine cuisine
When exploring the menus of local trattorias, you will find some traditional dishes that are definitely worth trying:
- Bistecca alla Fiorentina: The undisputed queen of Florentine cuisine. This thick cut of Chianina beef is cooked rare on the grill. Tradition dictates that it should never be cooked any other way, so that the meat remains tender and juicy inside.
- Ribollita and Pappa al Pomodoro: These are symbolic dishes of the so called “cucina povera” (a cuisine belonging to peasant tradition). The former is a thick soup made with stale bread, Cannellini beans and black cabbage. It is reheated several times to enhance its flavour.
- Trippa and Lampredotto: For lovers of strong flavours, Lampredotto is the ultimate Florentine street food. It is often served in a special sandwich called “Semelle”, dipped in broth and topped with green sauce.
- Wild boar stew: A rich and hearty speciality, often served with homemade Pappardelle pasta.
- Chicken under a brick: This grilling technique makes meat crispy and aromatic thanks to a blend of locally sourced spices.
- Schiacciata alla Fiorentina: A soft, orange-scented cake typical of the Carnival period, but enjoyed all year round.
Historic markets: where shopping meets tasting
For a truly immersive culinary experience, visit one of the city's historic markets. The most famous is San Lorenzo Market. While the ground floor features traditional stalls selling meat, fresh pasta and cheese, the first floor houses a modern food court where you can sample typical dishes prepared on the spot in a lively atmosphere.
However, if you're looking for a more authentic atmosphere away from the tourists, Sant'Ambrogio Market is the perfect place to visit. This is where Florentines still do their daily shopping, and the small stalls inside offer traditional dishes at unbeatable prices. It's the perfect place to buy excellent Tuscan Pecorino cheese or Finocchiona salami to take home as gastronomic souvenirs, or to simply sit down and enjoy a plate of tripe among the colourful stalls.
Street food and quick snacks
As well as restaurants, Florence offers plenty of places where you can enjoy a quick yet high-quality meal. Try a typical Florentine sandwich or focaccia filled with local cold cuts such as Finocchiona - a salami flavoured with fennel seeds - or Tuscan PDO Pecorino cheese. To experience the city like a true local, stop at one of the many historic “Vinaini” and enjoy a glass of wine with a platter of black croutons made with chicken livers.
Tips for an authentic and affordable experience
The city is full of taverns and trattorias, but if you want to enjoy typical Florentine cuisine without breaking the bank, here are a few things you should know.
It is best to avoid eating near the main tourist attractions. Instead, head to the Santa Croce or Santo Spirito neighbourhoods in the Oltrarno district, where you'll find places frequented by locals and can enjoy traditional flavours at more reasonable prices.
Reading online reviews can help you avoid “tourist traps”, but simply glancing at a restaurant's daily specials board is also a good way to judge how fresh its ingredients are. Many trattorias offer set lunch menus allowing you to sample two courses for a very reasonable price.
Great Tuscan Wines
In Florence, every meal is best enjoyed with a glass of red wine. The region is renowned for its superb red wines, such as Chianti Classico and Brunello di Montalcino, as well as its refreshing white wines, including Vernaccia di San Gimignano. If you are looking for a full-bodied wine to accompany meat, Vino Nobile di Montepulciano or Carmignano are both excellent choices that will enhance your dining experience.
