FLORENCE FOOD TOUR: A SHORT LIST OF AUTHENTIC AND MODERN EATERIES
To tour any city in Italy means not only exploring historic and beautiful environments, but also embracing the rich food culture, and Florence is no exception. Since the types of food spots you'll find can vary widely, this post will highlight a few eateries that are more easygoing and casual, yet high quality and filled with personality.
Panino
Panini Toscani
Piazza del Duomo, 34R, 50122 Firenze
While countless places in the city offer their own appetizing versions of a panino, this place in Piazza Duomo is particularly excellent for a couple of reasons. Firstly, this tiny shop offers guests a fun taste test of their high-quality authentic meats and cheeses. Meanwhile they share insights about their production, where in Tuscany they were sourced, and which ingredients would pair well together. Next, they offer plenty of bread options (like classic schiacciata, olive, soft focaccia). As well as pickled and fresh vegetables. Then to elevate things a bit more, they toast your panino so you can enjoy it warm! This place has definitely grown in popularity over the past several years. However the meal you get is well-worth the wait.
Pizza
Il Mercato Centrale
Piazza del Mercato Centrale, Via dell'Ariento, 50123 Firenze
Il Mercato Centrale Firenze is a modern food court, inside a historic market building in the San Lorenzo quarter. Their concept is about highlighting authentically-made dishes and specialties that come straight from the hands of artisans. These experts know their products, so it's definitely a food spot to include on your tour of Florence. Because in my very biased opinion, their pizza napoletana is simply delicious. While they offer different toppings from classic combinations to seasonal flavors, my go-to is always the margherita!
Gelato
I believe that many people, including Florentines, have their own preferences for their favorite gelateria. And also being a fellow lover of authentic gelato, I found it impossible to decide whether one shop was superior. So in this blog post are my top 3 Places to Try the Best Gelato in Florence. Fresh, creamy, flavorful, buonissimo!
Bakeries for Pastries
S. Forno Panificio
Via di Santa Monaca, 3R, 50124 Firenze
Nestled in the Oltrarno neighborhood is an adorable local bakery with a homey atmosphere. You can see bakers make fresh bread in the back room. Meanwhile, sitting on display are all of their yummy pastries and cafe-style savory eats, ready to order. There is also a wall of pantry food staples to browse for a bit of shopping.
Melaleuca Bakery & Bistrot
Lungarno delle Grazie, 18, 50122 Firenze
This Australian/American-owned cafe is located right along the Arno River, a few blocks from Piazza Santa Croce. Natural light floods in and creates a bright and airy feel, complementing the wooden furniture and thriving plants. Their international-inspired menu includes specialty coffee, as well as sweet and savory brunch dishes. And let's not forget their incredible assortment of pastries. They are made in-house and delightfully satisfy any sweet tooth! Also, they serve the fluffiest cinnamon rolls covered in icing!
Cafes
La Ménagère
Via de' Ginori, 8R, 50123 Firenze
Out of all the interesting things that this bistro has going on, the most attention-grabbing is the chic interior design! Even though they have done renovations since I last visited, the decor has always been stylish and eclectic. In addition to having a cafe, restaurant and bar, they have an in-house florist as well as a homeware shop. Plus, their second bar in the basement hosts live music performances!
Ditta Artigianale
3 locations - Via de Neri 32R, Via dello Sprone 5R, Via dei Carducci 2R
If you're a coffee enthusiast, Florence has a special roaster for you to visit on your food tour! This establishment specializes in high quality coffees. And to accompany your drink, they also offer breakfast and brunch foods, as well as homemade desserts. The modern and colorful interior design creates a fun and cozy setting to enjoy drinks with friends. Or to even have a little work session.
Caffè Gilli
Via Roma 1R, 50123 Firenze
This historic cafe located in Piazza della Repubblica is the oldest one in the city! It was first established in 1733 as a pastry shop. Then over the years, they expanded their selection to include gourmet chocolates along with their decadent desserts. They also feature a restaurant and a cocktail bar. It's a picturesque backdrop for the classic Italian breakfast of a coffee and croissant!
