Florence is full of culinary treasures, from humble trattorie to refined fine dining. Here, I share my favorite places to eat and drink, with tips from 15 years of running Florence For Foodies food tours. Whether you’re after no-frills local classics, casual spots, or unforgettable dining experiences, each guide helps you experience Florence like a local—markets, wine bars, hidden gems, and all.
Casual Trattoria
These are simple spots where the focus is on good food, not fancy décor. Quick, affordable, and popular with locals—perfect for a casual meal while exploring Florence.
I’Brindellone
On the other side of the Arno, I’Brindellone is all about honest, no-fuss Tuscan food. Think bistecca alla Fiorentina, ribollita, and hearty antipasti served in a lively, friendly atmosphere. Be ready to share tables—it’s part of the fun! Locals love it, visitors rave about it, and the prices won’t break the bank. Definitely book ahead if you don’t want to wait.
Open for lunch and dinner. Closed Mondays.
No website. Phone + 39(0)55217879
Sergio Gozzi
Tucked in the San Lorenzo area, Sergio Gozzi is a small, unassuming spot that’s only open for lunch. The food is classic Tuscan, fresh and simple, and the place is always full of working locals, which is usually a good sign. Perfect if you want a quick, authentic meal away from the tourist crowds—but don’t plan to linger over dinner here.
Open for lunch only. Closed Sundays.
No website. Book by passing by or calling +39(0)55281941
Fiaschetteria Nuvoli
– Pure No-Frills. Just steps from the Duomo, but the moment you step in, you escape the hustle and bustle. Inside an old wine cellar, you can grab a 1 euro crostini, sit wherever you can, and enjoy honest Tuscan dishes with locals—no fuss, just flavor.
Open Monday- Saturday 8 am- 9 pm
No website Piazza Dell´Olio 15 r. Reservations are not necessary.
La Casalinga
La Casalinga feels like a true Florentine secret—warm, unpretentious, and welcoming. The bistecca is excellent, full of flavor and served at refreshingly good prices. Set by the cool, lively Santo Spirito square, it’s the kind of place you return to for honest food and a real local vibe.
Open for lunch and dinner Monday- Saturday. Booking is a must.https://trattorialacasalinga.it/en/home-eng/
Vini e Vecchi Sapori
Vini e Vecchi Sapori isn’t just a restaurant — it’s family. ❤️
Family-run, full of heart, and rooted deep in Florence’s soul. From the moment you walk in, they treat you like one of their own.
Every Florentine knows this place, and for good reason: honest food, tradition, and that rare feeling of being truly welcomed. If you want to taste Florence the way locals do, this is it.
I love those paccheri at Vini e Vecchi Sapori in a way that’s almost unreasonable. The pasta is rich and comforting, soaked in warm saffron, with zucchini adding just the right softness and balance. And the peposo—deep, peppery, and slow-cooked—grounds everything with pure Tuscan intensity. It’s not just a great dish; it’s the kind of meal that reminds me exactly why I love food.
No website. Open for lunch and dinner Monday- Saturday .Booking is a must. Pass by or call 0552930455
Via Dei Magazzini 3/r (close to Piazza Della Signoria)
Restaurants
La Giostra
Twinkling Lights & Pear Pecorino Ravioli at La Giostra, Florence
Stepping into La Giostra feels like walking into a fairy tale. The twinkling lights and cozy elegance set the perfect romantic mood, while the food steals the show—especially the pear and pecorino ravioli, a sweet-and-savory masterpiece. Every bite, every glance around the softly lit room, makes you fall a little more in love… with Florence, and with the magic of a truly unforgettable dinner.
Open for lunch and dinner every day. Booking is a must, sometimes months ahead. https://ristorantelagiostra.com/en/ristorante-la-giostra/
Osteria Dalle Tre Panche
Truffle Magic with a View
Osteria Dalle Tre Panche is Tuscany on a plate. Their aromatic truffle dishes paired with sweeping hill views make every bite unforgettable. Cozy, charming, and utterly delicious—a true taste of Tuscany.
Open every day from 12 to 11 pm. Booking is a must
https://www.osteriadelletrepanche.com/
Cecchini in Città
Florentine Meat Magic
Italy’s most famous butcher has opened in the city of Florence! Cecchini in Città serves juicy steaks, savory cured meats, and hearty Tuscan specialties that make every bite unforgettable. Casual, vibrant, and full of flavor—Florence on a plate.
Open every day for lunch and dinner. Booking is a must.
Osteria Belle Donne
Osteria Delle Belle Donne: Elegant Flavors in Florence
Step into elegance at Osteria Delle Belle Donne, where Tuscan cuisine shines in every dish. Don’t miss their wine window, a charming Florentine touch that makes every sip and bite unforgettable.
Open every day from 12 to 11 pm. Booking is a must.
https://www.belledonneosteria.it/
If you are visiting Florence, trying Bistecca alla Fiorentina is a must. I wrote a full guide on where to eat it, what to expect and how to order it properly. Read my Bistecca guide here: https://florenceforfoodies.blog/2026/01/26/bistecca-alla-fiorentina-a-foodies-guide-to-florences-legendary-steak/
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