Florence is ranked No. 2 on U.S. News and World Report’s Best Places to Visit in Italy list (second only to Rome) for good reason. It’s where the Renaissance was born, it’s surrounded by Tuscany’s hills and mountains, and it’s a beautiful city to visit.
But Florence is also known for its cuisine, and a visit there would not be complete without trying at least a few of its restaurants. Here’s a list of eight of the best restaurants in Florence you don’t want to miss!
1. Vivanda
We may think of organic restaurants as being an American thing, but Vivanda’s menu is Italian vegetarian and vegan done right.
The seasonal menu guarantees that you’ll always taste ingredients at their peak of ripeness. It also means return diners can always try something new.
Try the fried polenta, polpettine, or a meat or seafood dish (they are offered). Reservations are highly recommended in this smaller venue.
2. Acquapazza
If you love seafood, then fancy Acquapazza has you covered with a selection of the freshest San Marco shellfish, fish, and octopus. They also serve Florentine steak for turf lovers. Along with the entrees, you’ll enjoy local produce and homemade bread and pasta.
An extensive wine list offers sparkling, red, and white wines including imported German and French selections to complement anything on your plate. Stay for the creme brulee or chocolate mousse.
Acquapazza is considered fine dining, so bring your best outfit and make a reservation.
3. All’Antico Viniao
Yes, it’s a cash-only sandwich shop with no seating, but this Florence street food favorite is so popular its owners opened up two additional locations including one across the street. As the main menu is all in Italian, tourists prefer to order off the sandwich menu listing the most popular choices.
Freshly made bread, cured meats, and fresh produce are why people keep coming back to All’Antico Viniao. Try the Tuscan ham and truffle cream or the salami and pecorino combination. Then sit on the sidewalk and watch people pass by while enjoying your sandwich.
4. Gusta Pizza
A visit to Florence wouldn’t be complete without trying some authentic Italian pizza. If you don’t mind being served wine in plastic cups, then you’ll love the laid back environment of Gusta Pizza.
The menu is very simple with a choice of seven pies ranging from the marinara (no cheese) to the Calabrese (a spicy salami pizza.) The staff here loves to have fun. Order in Italian and your pizza will arrive heart-shaped!
5. Osteria Brucia Tegami
Vegetarians, beware: this Tuscan gem fills its menu with venison during the fall and winter months. Rabbit, wild boar, and duck, and more take center stage during this time. You’ll also find pasta, truffles, and cheese in the dishes.
The walls of Osteria Brucia Tegami are decorated with the work of local artists, making for a heightened dining experience.
6. Trattoria Sabatino
Budget-minded Florence visitors will appreciate the affordable prices at Trattoria Sabatino, where most dishes can be enjoyed for mere euros. But don’t let the prices fool you: this is still high-quality Italian food.
The family-owned establishment offers several ravioli dishes, roasted chicken, traditional minestrone soup, and more. It’s considered blue-collar casual, but the interior charms with white walls and hanging pots.
7. Culinaria Bistro
For an Italian menu with some French and North African flair, Culinaria Bistro is the place to visit. The diverse menu has something to please every palate, whether it’s the lemon and sesame chicken to the exotic tanjines.
The restaurant focuses on low and slow cooking. It is also part of a food organization that operates tours that show how locally grown ingredients are cultivated.
There are several options for vegetarians as well as cured meats for those who love animal protein. For dessert, the wine-soaked biscotti tiramisu is a must.
8. S.forno
S.forno Panificio stands out from other Florence bakeries thanks to its old school methods of using wild fermentation so breads take longer to rise. That also means they taste better than traditionally made breads and desserts.
Panini, a chickpea cake called cecina, salted flatbread, and pizzas are among the carb-loaded selections at S.forno. Stop by for a breakfast snack with locally produced jam or butter, or an American style muffin or bagel. The bakery also produces an impressive selection of cakes, biscotti, brioche, and breads.
S.forno’s owners also manage two other restaurants, il Santo Bevitore and il Santino. Come to either one for classic pasta and seafood dishes, then stop by S.forno for a sweet treat on the way back to your hotel or on route to a local attraction.
Are You Ready to Visit Florence?
Are you now thinking of planning an international trip to Italy for the first time? Although Florence has literally hundreds of restaurants, it also has a lot of history, culture, shops, and architecture to take in. And being in the heart of Tuscany means there’s plenty of scenic countryside to take in.
Knowing what restaurants to visit is one great way to prepare for a Florence vacation. Now plan a getaway to Florence and get ready to experience some of the best food Italy has to offer!
Which Best Restaurants in Florence Will You Try?
Now you have a better idea of the scope and atmosphere of eight of the best restaurants in Florence to try. Which ones have your mouth watering by now?
Here at My Zeo, we bring you great content so you can live your healthiest and fullest life. If you enjoyed learning about Florence’s restaurants, please check out our latest lifestyle posts so you can learn more travel tips and other great places to dine all over the world.
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