Best Restaurants In Florence For Locals

Discover Florence’s hidden culinary gems

If you’re a local resident of Florence and in search of a new restaurant to try, look no further. We’ve scoured the city and found the best restaurants that locals rave about. From traditional Tuscan cuisine to international flavors, here are the top restaurants in Florence that cater to locals.

1. 🍝Trattoria Mario

Located near Mercato Centrale, Trattoria Mario is a classic Florentine restaurant that has been in business since 1953. With no menu, the owner personally tells you what is available based on what’s fresh that day. The prices are reasonable, and the atmosphere is cozy and welcoming.

2. 🍕Pizzeria Spera

For some of the best pizza in town, head to Pizzeria Spera in the Santa Croce neighborhood. The crust is thin and crispy, and the toppings are plentiful. The locals love the pizza al taglio (pizza by the slice) with toppings such as zucchini, mushrooms, and sausage.

3. 🐟 La Baracchina

If you’re in the mood for seafood, La Baracchina is the place to go. Located on the beach in the neighborhood of Castiglioncello, this restaurant offers fresh seafood caught daily. The atmosphere is low-key and casual, and the views are stunning.

4. 🍜Dolce Vegan

For those who follow a vegan diet or want to try something new, head to Dolce Vegan. This cozy restaurant is located in the San Lorenzo neighborhood and offers a variety of vegan dishes, including lasagna, burgers, and cheesecake. The prices are reasonable, and the atmosphere is warm and inviting.

5. 🍝Gusta Pizza

Located in the Oltrarno neighborhood, Gusta Pizza is a popular spot for locals and tourists alike. The pizzas are made with fresh, organic ingredients and cooked in a wood-fired oven. The atmosphere is lively and casual, making it the perfect spot for a quick bite or a night out with friends.

6. 🍝Cibreo

Cibreo is an upscale restaurant located in the Sant’Ambrogio neighborhood. The menu offers traditional Tuscan cuisine with a modern twist, and the chefs use only the freshest ingredients. The atmosphere is elegant and refined, making it the perfect spot for a special occasion.

7. 🍲Santarpia

If you’re in the mood for a hearty bowl of soup or stew, head to Santarpia. This restaurant is located in the San Niccolò neighborhood and offers a variety of soups and stews made with fresh, seasonal ingredients. The prices are reasonable, and the atmosphere is cozy and welcoming.

8. 🍲Ristorante Il Palagio

For a fine dining experience, head to Ristorante Il Palagio. Located in the Four Seasons hotel, this restaurant offers Tuscan cuisine with a modern twist. The atmosphere is elegant and refined, and the views of the surrounding gardens are stunning.

9. 🍛L’OV Osteria Vegetariana

For a vegetarian twist on traditional Tuscan cuisine, head to L’OV Osteria Vegetariana. Located in the Santa Croce neighborhood, this restaurant offers a variety of vegetarian dishes such as stuffed zucchini flowers, vegan lasagna, and tiramisu made with soy cream. The atmosphere is cozy and inviting, and the prices are reasonable.

10. 🍟I’ Brindellone

Located in the San Frediano neighborhood, I’ Brindellone is a local favorite for traditional Tuscan cuisine. The menu offers classics such as ribollita (a Tuscan soup), bistecca alla fiorentina (Florentine steak), and pappa al pomodoro (a tomato and bread soup). The atmosphere is casual and welcoming, making it the perfect spot for a family dinner.

11. 🐓Trattoria Sergio Gozzi

Located in the neighborhood of San Lorenzo, Trattoria Sergio Gozzi is a classic Tuscan restaurant that has been in business since 1949. The menu offers traditional dishes such as rabbit stew, stuffed artichokes, and homemade pasta. The atmosphere is cozy and welcoming, making it the perfect spot for a romantic dinner.

12. 🍷Il Vinaino di Fiorenza

If you’re in the mood for a glass of wine and some tapas, head to Il Vinaino di Fiorenza. This cozy wine bar is located in the Santo Spirito neighborhood and offers a variety of wines from the region. The tapas menu changes daily, but the selection is always fresh and delicious.

13. 🍣Koko

For a taste of Japanese cuisine in Florence, head to Koko. This restaurant is located in the Santa Croce neighborhood and offers a variety of sushi rolls, sashimi, and tempura. The atmosphere is modern and elegant, making it the perfect spot for a date night.

What are the best restaurants in Florence for locals?

Florence is a city that is known for its rich culinary tradition, and there are plenty of restaurants that cater to locals. Some of the best restaurants in Florence for locals include Trattoria Mario, Pizzeria Spera, La Baracchina, Dolce Vegan, and Gusta Pizza. Other popular spots include Cibreo, Santarpia, Ristorante Il Palagio, L’OV Osteria Vegetariana, I’ Brindellone, Trattoria Sergio Gozzi, Il Vinaino di Fiorenza, and Koko.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What is the best traditional Tuscan dish to try in Florence?

The best traditional Tuscan dish to try in Florence is bistecca alla fiorentina, a thick and juicy T-bone steak grilled over an open flame.

2. Where can I find the best pizza in Florence?

The best pizza in Florence can be found at Pizzeria Spera in the Santa Croce neighborhood.

3. What is the dress code for restaurants in Florence?

Most restaurants in Florence have a smart casual dress code, meaning no shorts or flip flops.

4. What is the average price for a meal in Florence?

The average price for a meal in Florence varies depending on the restaurant and the type of food you order. A simple pasta dish can cost around 10-15 euros, while a fine dining experience can cost upwards of 100 euros per person.

5. Do I need to make reservations at restaurants in Florence?

It’s always a good idea to make reservations at restaurants in Florence, especially during peak tourist season.

6. What is the tipping etiquette in Florence?

Tipping is not expected in Florence, but it is appreciated. A tip of 5-10% is appropriate for exceptional service.

7. What time do restaurants in Florence typically open and close?

Most restaurants in Florence open for lunch at around 12:30 pm and close in the afternoon. Dinner service typically starts at around 7:30 pm and can last until midnight.

8. What is the best time to visit restaurants in Florence?

The best time to visit restaurants in Florence is during the off-season, which is from November to March. This is when the restaurants are less crowded, and the prices are lower.

9. Can I find vegetarian and vegan options at restaurants in Florence?

Yes, many restaurants in Florence offer vegetarian and vegan options. Some popular spots include Dolce Vegan, L’OV Osteria Vegetariana, and Il Vegetariano.

10. What is the best neighborhood in Florence for food?

There are many great neighborhoods in Florence for food, but some of the best include Santo Spirito, San Lorenzo, and Santa Croce.

11. What is the best time of day to visit restaurants in Florence?

The best time of day to visit restaurants in Florence is during lunchtime or early dinner, as the restaurants tend to be less crowded and the prices are lower.

12. Is it safe to eat street food in Florence?

Yes, it is generally safe to eat street food in Florence, but it’s always a good idea to use your judgement and avoid eating from vendors that don’t look clean or hygienic.

13. Can I find international cuisine in Florence?

Yes, there are many restaurants in Florence that offer international cuisine, such as Japanese, Indian, and Mexican. Some popular spots include Koko, Namaste India, and Tijuana.

The Verdict

Florence offers a plethora of culinary delights, and