Florence is more than just a city of art and history—it’s a place where food becomes a form of expression. From medieval streets to renaissance palazzi, every corner offers something for the soul and the stomach. Here, meals are a celebratory, where every bite is a nod to centuries of tradition, and every glass of wine is a reminder of the region’s rich heritage. Whether you’re diving into a hearty Ribollita at a rustic trattoria or savoring a hand-rolled Pici in a secret corner of the city, Florence demands your attention, your time, and your appetite. It’s not just about eating; it’s about living through food.

Where to Eat in Florence-

Classic Trattorias & Must-Visit Restaurants

• Trattoria Mario – A beloved institution since 1953, this spot is the definition of Florentine comfort. With no reservations and communal tables, it’s always packed, but the bistecca will make the wait worth it. Start with a Negroni, then move on to a Chianti Classico. Not a steak purist? There’s truffle pasta, beef tartare, and old-school sides like rosemary-spiked potatoes. And don’t skip the dessert trolley—it rolls up tableside, loaded with tiramisu and torta della nonna

• Trattoria Ruggero – Tucked away from the touristy crowds, this family-run gem offers an authentic taste of Tuscany. The ribollita here is a soul-warming masterpiece.

Il Santo Bevitore

Housed in a former coach house in Santo Spirito, this spot is buzzy, packed, and loud in the best way. When it opened in the early 2000s, it shook things up with creative Tuscan cooking and a slow-food ethos—and it’s still one of Florence’s hottest tables. The menu shifts with the seasons, but expect elevated rustic dishes done right—silky pastas, rich ragùs, and perfectly grilled meats. The wine list is a knockout, heavy on Tuscany and Piemonte with just enough Sicilian and Alto Adige bottles to keep things interesting. Plenty of by-the-glass options too, so you can drink like a king without torching your wallet.

• Dalla Lola – Small, intimate, and ever-changing, the menu here is always a pleasant surprise. Whatever’s on the board, order it—you won’t regret it.

• Buca dell’Orafo – A hidden gem near Ponte Vecchio. The taglierini al tartufo here will make you rethink your whole concept of decadence.

• Zeb

Tucked in the San Niccolò district, Zeb is a small, sleek diner with a mother-and-son duo, Giuseppina and Alberto, running the show. Two long counters, packed with seasonal dishes, face each other in the narrow space, where the vibe is casual, yet refined. The menu changes daily based on what’s fresh from the market, but expect stuffed cappellacci with ricotta and truffles, or pappardelle with wild boar sauce. Mains like pork ribs with apricots or eggplant parmigiana keep it comforting and hearty, while cheesecake and killer chocolate desserts cap off the experience.

• Osteria Santo Spirito – On the other side of the Arno, this institution is known for gnocchi in a truffle-laced cheese sauce that’s worth the pilgrimage.

• Cantinetta Antinori

Tucked inside the 15th-century Palazzo Antinori, this place oozes old-money Florence—white tablecloths, gleaming crystal, and waiters in bow ties. The menu sticks to Tuscan classics, from fettunta with cavolo nero to tagliata topped with pecorino. The in-house olive oil flows freely, and the wine? Antinori, of course. Expect a well-heeled crowd—a mix of Florentines with connections and travelers who prefer their bistecca with a side of quiet luxury.

• La Giostra – Famous for its royal ownership and candlelit atmosphere, you’ll find legendary pear-pecorino ravioli and a dining experience that feels almost magical.

• Baldovino -is a simple trattoria, but magically tucked into the rhythm of Florence. It’s unassuming but steady—a spot where locals and travelers alike find comfort in the familiar.

The Ribollita comes out, hearty and satisfying, packed with the kind of depth that only comes from letting the ingredients shine. Then there’s the wild boar pappardelle—perfectly cooked pasta coated in a rich, earthy ragu that feels like it belongs to the land itself. No frills, no embellishments—just a dish that understands its purpose. A glass of Chianti rounds it out, rustic and straightforward, perfectly at home on the table.

There’s no spectacle at Baldovino. Just a quiet confidence that reminds you why simple, honest cooking is enough. You leave feeling not just nourished, but grounded

Vini e Vecchi Sapori

Tiny, loud, and packed to the rafters, this old-school Florentine gem doesn’t play games. The signs say it all—no pizza, no cappuccino, no ice, no takeaway. You’re here to eat like a local, elbow-to-elbow, surrounded by wood-paneled walls and memorabilia.

The menu? Unapologetically Florentine. Liver crostini, pappardelle with duck ragù, and peposo, the black-pepper-heavy beef stew that kept Renaissance masons going. But they throw in a few surprises—paccheri with saffron and zucchini flowers, or salt cod Livornese. At lunch, expect a mix of tourists fresh from the Uffizi and Palazzo Vecchio functionaries who know exactly what they’re doing.

In a tourist-heavy dead zone for good food, this place is a lifeline. Book ahead.

Trattoria da Burde – A century-old institution on the outskirts of Florence, Trattoria da Burde is where locals go for a proper bistecca alla fiorentina, ribollita, and hearty Tuscan fare. Rustic, no-frills, and unapologetically old-school, it’s the kind of place where the food does all the talking. Expect a dining room filled with a mix of regulars, traveling food lovers, and the occasional chef paying homage to tradition.

Trattoria Sabatino – A family-run gem tucked away in the quieter corners of Florence, Trattoria Sabatino feels like stepping into a time machine. The place is legendary for its classic Tuscan dishes, especially the ribollita and pappa al pomodoro. It’s casual, welcoming, and the kind of spot where the pasta is always made with love and a touch of nostalgia. If you’re after an authentic, no-frills Florentine experience, this is the place to go.

• Boccadama – Nestled in a lively piazza, Boccadama offers ribollita and hand-rolled pici pasta in a setting that’ll make you want to linger.

• Trattoria Marione – A bustling trattoria serving classic Tuscan fare in a no-frills setting. It’s always a great choice for a hearty, satisfying meal.

Michelin Starred Restaurants:

Enoteca Pinchiorri – A temple of gastronomy, this three-Michelin-starred institution is the epitome of luxury dining. The menu masterfully balances modern creativity with deep-rooted Italian traditions, all backed by a wine cellar boasting over 4,000 labels. Every dish is a carefully orchestrated masterpiece, designed to take you on an unforgettable culinary journey.

La Leggenda dei Frati – Perched in the lush hills above Florence, this two-starred gem offers more than just breathtaking views. The dishes reflect Tuscany’s culinary heritage with a refined, artistic touch, seamlessly blending tradition and innovation. It’s the kind of place where every plate is as much a feast for the eyes as it is for the palate.

Il Palagio – Nestled within the opulent Four Seasons Hotel, Il Palagio exudes elegance at every turn. With its two Michelin stars, the restaurant delivers meticulously crafted Tuscan specialties, highlighting the finest seasonal ingredients. The expertly curated wine list only adds to the experience, making it one of Florence’s most exceptional dining destinations.

Cibrèo – A Florentine institution that pays homage to Tuscany’s culinary roots while embracing modern finesse. Known for its commitment to seasonal ingredients and artistic presentation, this Michelin-starred classic strikes the perfect balance between innovation and authenticity. The kind of place that keeps locals coming back and visitors wishing they had more time in Florence.

Ora d’Aria – Sleek, contemporary, and deeply rooted in Italian culinary heritage, Ora d’Aria brings a fresh perspective to fine dining in Florence. The Michelin-starred chef seamlessly blends creativity with tradition, crafting dishes that feel both innovative and familiar. Located in the heart of the city, it’s an essential stop for those seeking a modern take on Italian gastronomy.

Borgo San Jacopo – Set along the Arno with a view that could steal the show, this Michelin-starred restaurant ensures the food holds its own. Tradition and modernity collide in dishes that highlight local ingredients with a sophisticated edge, making it one of Florence’s most sought-after dining experiences.

Toscano – A refined culinary experience within the elegant St. Regis Hotel, Toscano presents Tuscan classics with a sophisticated twist. While an official website is elusive, its dedication to quality, precision, and elevated flavors has made it a standout choice for those seeking an exceptional meal in Florence.

The Best Bistecca alla Fiorentina

Florence’s iconic T-bone steak is not for the faint of heart—thick, charred outside, and nearly raw inside. These are the spots to savor this Florentine delicacy:

• Antico Ristoro di Cambi – Classic and straightforward, this place serves some of the best bistecca you’ll find.

• Buca Lapi – Florence’s oldest restaurant, known for its impeccable steak since the 1800s. A historic gem that lives up to its reputation.

Regina Bistecca

A former antiquarian bookshop turned bistecca temple, this spot just north of the Duomo treats Florence’s iconic T-bone steak with religious devotion. Steaks are weighed, inspected, and charcoal-grilled to perfection—served rare, always. The knife? Bone-handled and razor-sharp.

• Buca Mario – Huge portions, old-school charm, and steaks so good they’ll make you question all other cuts of meat.

• Osteria dell’Oca – Here, the flame-kissed bistecca will make you forget any other version you’ve ever tried.

• La Giostra – Known for romance as much as its steak, La Giostra’s bistecca comes with a side of Florentine history.

Where to Eat Panini Like a Local

• All’Antico Vinaio – The most famous panini shop in Florence, and for good reason. Don’t miss their signature schiacciata sandwiches.

• Semel

A tiny, no-frills sandwich counter by the Sant’Ambrogio market, Semel is standing-room only—and usually packed. The chalkboard menu changes daily, but expect bold, unexpected combos: wild boar with polenta, sardines with orange and chicory, or salame with figs and balsamic. There’s even donkey stew (trust us, it works). No tables, no nonsense—just damn good panini.

• I’ Trippaio di Firenze – For the adventurous eater, this shop specializes in lampredotto, a traditional Florentine street food made from cow’s stomach, have with the salsa verde and chili sauce.

• Ino Panino – Artisanal panini made with house-cured meats and fresh local ingredients—everything you could want in a sandwich.

• Nerbone – The go-to spot for trippa (tripe) sandwiches. The lines are long, but it’s worth the wait.

Where to Get Coffee & Pastries

• Caffè Gilli – An old-world café where the espresso is served standing at the bar, just as a true Florentine would.

• Pasticceria Nencioni – A local pastry shop that’s home to some of the best cornetti in town.

• Ditta Artigianale – A modern coffee spot where you can get a serious caffeine kick in a sleek, stylish setting.

• A. Forno – A tiny bakery with some of the most golden, flaky pastries in Florence.

Where to Get the Best Gelato

• Gelateria Passera – A small, artisanal gelateria that consistently delivers outstanding flavors.

• Bar Vivoli – A classic Florentine gelato spot, known for their rich, intensely flavored gelato.

• My Sugar – Modern and creative, this gelateria offers unique flavors that change seasonally.

• Sbrino – A local favorite, known for its use of locally sourced ingredients and incredible seasonal flavors.