A complete guide to Florence | Food, wine & nightlife

Εat, drink & repeat in Florence

Florence isn’t just a city to see. It’s a city to savor. From mornings with espresso in small cafés, to lunches at traditional trattorias, and evenings with wine in the narrow alleys or cocktails with a view, every moment here has its own flavor. This guide brings together the most distinctive spots for food, coffee, wine, and drinks, so you can experience Florence as it deserves to be experienced: slowly, delightfully, and with all your senses.

Trattorias & Traditional Food

•    Antico Ristorante Paoli 1827 (25–50 €)

One of Florence’s oldest restaurants, set in a space that feels more like a historic setting than a simple restaurant. You’ll see old murals, wooden details, and an atmosphere that transports you straight to another era. It’s very centrally located, so it’s an easy stop for either lunch or dinner. You can make a reservation, but even without one, if you’re patient, you’ll find a seat , especially outside of peak hours. One of the must-try dishes is their tiramisu, which you really shouldn’t miss, as it’s considered one of the best in the city.

•    Osteria Vini e Vecchi Sapori (20–40 €)

A small, almost hidden spot that feels like home. The menu changes frequently, and everything is fresh and homemade. It offers some of the most authentic meals you can have in Florence, with very warm service and no touristy vibe.

•    Trattoria Cammillo (25–45€)

A classic Florentine experience dating back to 1827. Handmade pasta, traditional recipes, and a space adorned with old murals that transports you back in time. Reservations are required because it’s a huge favorite.

•    Trattoria Sostanza (25–45 €)

A historic spot with an “old school” vibe. The signature dish is the butter-roasted chicken, pan-fried to perfection, simple yet incredibly delicious. It’s a truly unique experience. There, you’ll feel as though time has stood still.

    Trattoria Za Za (20–30 €)

It’s livelier and more touristy, but it’s worth a visit for the atmosphere and the Victorian interior. A wide variety of dishes and great cocktails.It’s ideal if you’re looking for a more “fun” dinner.

•           Buca Mario (25–40 €)

One of the most famous traditional restaurants in the city center. Generous portions, excellent lasagna, and a cozy atmosphere reminiscent of old Florence.

•           Osteria Pastella (20–35 €)

Known for the “show” featuring pasta served inside a giant Parmesan wheel. It’s more of an experience than just a meal, but the dishes are truly delicious.

•           Trattoria Garga (25–45 €)

A slightly more artistic spot, with a unique design and a more creative take on Italian cuisine. Their tiramisu is one of the highlights.

•           13 Gobbi (20–35 €)

Small, romantic, and very authentic, with dim lighting and a cinematic vibe. It doesn’t try to impress, but it succeeds with simple, well-prepared food and excellent pasta options.

Street Food & Take Away

  • I’ Girone De’ Ghiotti
  • All’Antico Vinaio
  • Panetteria e Stuzzicheria de’ Neri
  • La Schiacciata
  • L’Aschetteria
  • Pino’s
  • Mercato Centrale
  • Antico Noè
  • Panini Toscani

Pizza

  • Gusta Pizza
  • Pizzeria e Trattoria Lo Sprone
  • L’Antica Pizzeria da Michele  
  • Giotto Pizzeria-Bistrot
  • O’ Munaciello
  •  Mister Pizza

Gelato

  • Vivoli
  • Gelateria della Passera
  • Gelateria dei Neri
  • Venchi

Dessert

•    Don Nino

Try their pistachio-filled cannoli, which stands out for its rich flavor.

•    La Gamella

La Gamella, serving one of the best tiramisu in Florence.

From espresso to aperitivo and a little more..

Unique Coffee Spots

  • Ditta Artigianale
  • Todo Modo Café
  • La Rivarno
  • Gilli
  • La Ménagère
  • Scudieri Firenze
  • Il Conventino Caffè Letterari
  • Gotta Artigianale

Wine & Aperitivo

  • Osteria Belle Donne
  • Loggia Roof Bar
  • Art Rooftop
  • The Butterfly Terrace
  • Il Santino
  • La Terrazza Rooftop
  • View on Art Rooftop
  • Angel Roofbar
  • Babae
  • La Buchetta
  • Le Volpi e l’Uva
  • Enoteca Bellini
  • Osteria Nuvoli
  • Procacci

Cocktail Bars

  • Manifattura
  • Spiritum Spirits Bar
  • Dove Vado
  • La Loggia del Palazzo
  • Rasputin Speakeasy
  • Vanilla Club Speakeasy
  • Locale Firenze