Food in Florence: Where and What to Eat and How Much It Costs

Where to eat in Florence

Do You Need to Book Restaurants in Florence?

If you’re planning a trip to Florence and want to try the local cuisine, you might wonder if it’s necessary to book restaurants in advance. The answer is: it depends.

If you visit during high tourist season (June-August) or during major holidays like Easter or Christmas, it is highly recommended to book in advance, especially at popular restaurants or those with Michelin stars, which tend to fill up quickly.

However, if you visit during the low season (November-March) or if you have no particular preferences, you might be able to find a table even without a reservation. Many smaller trattorias and osterias do not accept reservations, and there are numerous casual cafés and street food vendors where you can eat without problems.

That said, even if you don’t need to book in advance, it’s always a good idea to do a bit of research to discover which restaurants are worth a visit. You can check online reviews or ask locals for recommendations. And if you decide to make a reservation, remember to confirm it and arrive on time, as Italian restaurants tend to adhere to precise timings.

In general, it’s not always necessary to book restaurants in Florence, but it is advisable to plan to avoid disappointment and ensure the best possible dining experience.

How Much Does It Cost to Eat in Florence?

Florence is famous for its fantastic cuisine, and there are many restaurants to choose from. However, the cost of eating in Florence can vary greatly depending on where you go and what you order.

If you’re looking for budget options, there are many trattorias and pizzerias where you can enjoy a meal for around 20 euros, while in sandwich shops, you’ll spend about 10 euros. These places often offer simple dishes made with fresh, local ingredients.

Mid-range restaurants in Florence typically cost between 30 and 40 euros per person for a meal. These restaurants offer a wide range of dishes, including pasta, meat, and fish.

It’s important to note that some restaurants may charge extra for bread and water, so it’s always best to check the menu before ordering.

For a high-end dining experience, there are numerous gourmet restaurants in Florence offering refined cuisine and impeccable service. These establishments can cost over 50-100 euros per person, but the quality of the food and the experience often match the price.

In summary, the cost of eating in Florence can vary greatly depending on your budget and preferences. However, with so many excellent restaurants to choose from, there’s something for everyone in this beautiful city.

How Many Michelin Stars Does Florence Have?

Florence is a city renowned for its gastronomic culture and culinary traditions. It hosts numerous restaurants that cater to different tastes and preferences. However, regarding Michelin stars, Florence has a relatively moderate presence.

Currently, Florence has 8 Michelin-starred restaurants. Among them, Enoteca Pinchiorri stands out with 3 Michelin stars, the highest recognition for culinary excellence. The other restaurants in the city each have 1 Michelin star, including Borgo San Jacopo, Ora d’Aria, Gucci Osteria da Massimo Bottura, Il Palagio (Four Seasons), Saporium, La leggenda dei frati, and Chic nonna by Vito Mollica.

Although eight Michelin stars may seem few compared to other cities like Paris or Tokyo, it is important to note that Michelin stars are awarded based on the quality of food and the experience, rather than the number of restaurants. Therefore, the eight Michelin-starred restaurants in Florence are a testament to the high quality of its culinary offerings.

In conclusion, although Florence doesn’t have as many Michelin stars as some other cities, it still offers an impressive range of dining options for visitors and locals alike.

What is Florence Famous For Culinary-wise?

Florence is renowned for its rich culinary tradition. The city boasts a range of restaurants serving authentic Tuscan dishes, characterized by their simplicity and the use of fresh, local ingredients. For example, La Chicca Boutique offers their “From Market to Table” service, where you can go shopping with their chef at the Sant’Ambrogio Market, then cook the products together with him in the morning.

The Bistecca alla Fiorentina is one of Florence’s most iconic dishes and a staple of Tuscan cuisine. It is a large beef steak, traditionally from the Chianina breed, cut with the bone in a T-shape, including both the filet and the sirloin. The steak is grilled, usually rare, to preserve its tenderness and rich flavor. It is seasoned only with salt and pepper, sometimes with a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil, and often served with simple sides like beans in oil or salads.

Here are some of the best places in Florence to enjoy the Bistecca alla Fiorentina:

Trattoria dall'Oste – Famous for the excellent quality of Chianina meat and perfect preparation of the steak.

Buca Lapi – One of Florence’s most historic restaurants, offering impeccable Fiorentina in an authentic setting.

Perseus – Known for generous portions and traditional Tuscan cuisine, it is highly regarded for its Fiorentina.

This dish celebrates the simplicity and quality of ingredients, with the meat being the absolute star.

Other notable dishes include:

Ribollita: A soup made with black cabbage, beans, and stale bread, slowly cooked until thick and flavorful. It is a classic “poor” dish from the peasant tradition.

Pappa al Pomodoro: A soup made with ripe tomatoes, stale bread, garlic, and basil, enriched with extra virgin olive oil. It is a simple but flavorful dish.

Pappardelle al Cinghiale: Pappardelle pasta with a wild boar ragù, often cooked with red wine and spices to create a rich and savory sauce.

Fagioli all'uccelletto: Cannellini beans stewed in tomato sauce with garlic and sage, a simple dish often served with meat or sausage.

Trippa alla Fiorentina: A dish made with tripe cooked with tomato, onion, celery, and spices. A classic example of popular cuisine.

In addition to these traditional dishes, Florence also has a vibrant street food scene, which is an integral part of the city’s gastronomic culture, offering authentic and flavorful dishes perfect for a quick snack while exploring the historic streets of Florence. Here are some of the most famous Florentine street foods:

Lampredotto: One of Florence’s most iconic dishes. It is a sandwich made with the cow’s fourth stomach (lampredotto), boiled in a flavorful broth and served with green or spicy sauce. You can find it in many kiosks scattered around the city.

Schiacciata: A crispy and salty focaccia that can be filled with various ingredients, such as Tuscan cold cuts, cheeses, grilled vegetables, or sausage. It is one of the most appreciated street foods by locals.

Coccoli: Fried dough balls often served with stracchino cheese and prosciutto crudo. They are a true delight, crispy on the outside and soft on the inside.

Porchetta: Although typical of other Italian regions, porchetta is very popular at Florentine markets. It consists of roasted and spiced pork, served in slices inside a sandwich.

Trippa: Similar to lampredotto, tripe is also served in sandwich form or as a dish, cooked with tomato sauce and spices.

Overall, Florentine cuisine reflects the city’s history and culture, focusing on simple yet delicious flavors. Visitors should not miss the opportunity to try some of the local specialties at one of the many excellent restaurants in the city.

Where to Dine in Florence?

Florence, the capital of Tuscany, is famous for its rich and diverse culinary scene. With a wide selection of restaurants, it can be challenging to decide where to have dinner.

We have prepared a list of the best restaurants according to Apartments Florence:

For a romantic evening, head to La Giostra, a cozy restaurant with a candle-lit atmosphere serving delicious Tuscan cuisine. The menu includes traditional dishes like pappardelle with wild boar ragù and bistecca alla fiorentina.

If you’re looking for something more modern, try Santo Bevitore, which offers contemporary interpretations of classic Tuscan dishes such as ribollita and bistecca alla fiorentina. The restaurant features an elegant design and an extensive wine list.

For something different, Cena al Buio at La Chicca Boutique is the solution; you won’t have to worry about choosing from the menu. This experience is customized for you; you just need to inform if you have any restrictions, and Chef Vittorio will handle the rest.

For vegetarian options, we recommend Il Vegetariano, Basilico, and La Pépinière.

For seafood lovers, head to Trattoria da Burde, you should try the grilled octopus and spaghetti with clams.

Regardless of what you’re looking for, Florence has something for everyone.

10 of the Best Restaurants to Visit in Florence

If you’re looking for some of the best restaurants to visit during your stay in Florence, here are ten excellent options:

Trattoria Sostanza - A small, cozy restaurant popular among locals, known for its famous butter chicken.
Osteria del Cinghiale Bianco - Offers traditional Tuscan cuisine, perfect for those wanting to savor local flavors.
La Giostra - This romantic restaurant is known for its excellent service and delicious dishes, including their signature pear ravioli.
Il Santo Bevitore - A modern twist on traditional Italian cuisine, Il Santo Bevitore offers a wide wine list to pair with your meal.
La Cucina del Garga - With walls covered in art and a lively atmosphere, this restaurant is perfect for those seeking a fun dining experience.
La Chicca Boutique - Offers traditional Tuscan dishes with a contemporary approach, using fresh, high-quality ingredients.
Ristorante La Bottega del Buon Caffè - With a focus on local ingredients and seasonal dishes, this Michelin-starred restaurant is a must-visit for foodies.
Cibrèo - Known for its innovative approach to traditional Tuscan cuisine.
Il Latini - This family-run trattoria has been serving classic Tuscan dishes since 1890 and is known for its warm atmosphere and generous portions.
Enoteca Pitti Gola e Cantina - With a vast wine list and delicious dishes to pair, it’s perfect for a casual evening or an aperitif.

Need more recommendations for the best restaurants in Florence or help with making a reservation? We’re here to assist you! Feel free to reach out to us for personalized suggestions or to help you secure a table at one of the city's dining spots. Our local expertise and in-depth knowledge can ensure you have a fantastic culinary experience. Contact us by email or phone, and we’ll be happy to assist you!