“You don’t get old at the table,” a Tuscan saying goes, and the Florentines certainly took it literally, in view of their love for good food and good drinking.
Florence, the cradle of the Renaissance, is a city that enchants you not only due to its artistic and historical heritage, but also for its rich culinary tradition. Strolling its streets, you will be fascinated by the majesty of the Duomo, the beauty of the Ponte Vecchio and the elegance of Piazza della Signoria. But it is by sitting down at the table that you discover the most authentic soul of the city, created out of genuine flavours and dishes that tell centuries-old stories.
Eating Well in Florence Without Spending a Fortune
If you want to enjoy the pleasures of good Florentine cuisine without spending a fortune, here are some tips for you; a selection of restaurants, taverns and kiosks where you can enjoy real local cuisine without emptying your wallet.
The Historic Centre
The beating heart of Florence. Here are its most famous monuments: the Duomo with the magnificent dome of Brunelleschi, the Uffizi Gallery and the Ponte Vecchio. Among its streets animated by tourists and street artists, there are still (some) corners where you can enjoy a quick and tasty meal without spending too much.
- All’ Antico Vinaio – Via dei Neri 65/r
Famous for its stuffed dumplings, this place has become a reference point for those looking for a tasty and hearty snack. The “Favolosa” with crumbs, pecorino cream, artichoke cream and spicy aubergines is among the most valued offers.
- The’ Girone De’ Ghiotti – Via dei Cimatori 23/r
Specializing in stuffed dumplings, it offers a wide range of combinations with fresh and local ingredients. The quality of the cold cuts and cheeses used turns each bite into a unique experience.
San Lorenzo
An authentic and lively district, it is famous for the Central Market, a gastronomic paradise with fresh produce stalls and local cuisine shops. Perfect for an informal lunch with traditional Tuscan dishes at affordable prices.
- Trattoria Sergio Gozzi – Piazza San Lorenzo 8/r
One of the oldest trattorias in Florence, it offers traditional dishes such as ribollita, Florentine tripe and steak. The family atmosphere and low prices make it a must for those seeking authenticity.
Santa Croce
Historically the district of artisans and intellectuals, Santa Croce is today an area full of typical trattorias, small shops and welcoming places. Here you can breathe an authentic atmosphere, between medieval alleys and the splendid basilica that houses the tombs of Michelangelo, Galileo and Machiavelli.
- Il Bufalo Trippone – Via dell’Anguillara 48/r
A small wine shop with a cellar that offers local cold cuts and cheeses, as well as stuffed dumplings to accompany with a selection of Tuscan wines. An ideal place for a tasty and casual break.
San Frediano
In the Oltrarno, considered one of the most authentic districts of Florence, San Frediano is the perfect place for those who want to discover the most authentic city. Among artisan shops, hidden squares and historic taverns, here are some of the best trattorias at affordable prices.
- I’ Brindellone – Piazza Piattellina 10
Located in the heart of the Oltrarno, this trattoria is renowned for its Florentine steak, ribollita and other typical dishes. The convivial atmosphere and the value for money make it one of the favourites among the locals.
- Al Tranvai – Piazza Tasso 14
A small room with a vintage atmosphere, where you can taste traditional dishes such as tomato and tripe. The name, which means “tram” in Florentine, recalls the shape of the place and its proximity to an old tram line.
Sant’Ambrogio
A Florentine district par excellence, where the local market and historic taverns keep the city’s culinary tradition alive. Frequented more by Florentines than tourists, it is the right place for those seeking out a genuine gastronomic experience.
- Rocco – Sant’ Ambrogio Market
Inside the market, this historic place offers homemade dishes such as pasta alla carrettiera and stew. The sharing of tables and the informal environment make it an authentic experience.
Street Food and Kiosks
- Il Trippaio del Porcellino – Piazza del Mercato Nuovo
Historical kiosk where you can taste the traditional sandwich with the lampredotto or the Florentine tripe. An unmissable culinary experience for those who want to immerse themselves in the true essence of Florentine street food.
- I’ Trippaio di San Frediano – Piazza dei Nerli
This kiosk offers specialties such as sandwich with tripe or lampredotto, prepared according to tradition and highly appreciated by the locals.
As you can see, in Florence you can taste typical dishes without it costing a fortune. Whether you choose a historic trattoria or a street food kiosk, the city offers endless possibilities to delight the palate without sacrifices. Because, as a Florentine would say “sated body, comforted soul!”
