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Florence food guide
Signature dishes, best food neighborhoods, and the dining etiquette that actually matters — all specific to Florence.
What to eat in Florence
6 signature dishes, 4 food-forward neighborhoods, and the etiquette you actually need to know.
Must-try dishes
Bistecca alla Fiorentina
A thick-cut, bone-in steak, traditionally from Chianina cattle, grilled rare over coals. Its simplicity highlights the quality of the meat and is a true Florentine indulgence.
Lampredotto
The fourth stomach of a cow, slow-cooked in broth and typically served in a bread roll, often dipped in the cooking liquid. It's a hearty, flavorful street food staple.
Pappa al Pomodoro
A thick, rustic Tuscan soup made with ripe tomatoes, stale bread, garlic, basil, and olive oil. It's a comforting dish that embodies Tuscan resourcefulness.
Ribollita
A hearty vegetable and bread soup, a 're-boiled' peasant dish featuring cannellini beans, kale, and other seasonal vegetables. It’s best enjoyed on a cooler evening.
Schiacciata con l'uva
A sweet, flatbread typically made with olive oil and topped with grapes during the grape harvest season. It's a simple, delicious seasonal treat.
Crostini Toscani
Toasted bread slices topped with a rich pâté made from chicken livers, capers, anchovies, and wine. It's a classic antipasto that's full of savory flavor.
Where locals eat — best neighborhoods
Artisan workshops and traditional trattorias
Bustling market and food hall
Local market and residential feel
Historic charm with diverse eateries
Dietary notes
Florentine cuisine is traditionally meat-heavy, with a focus on beef, pork, and offal. Vegetarian options are available, often centered around vegetables, beans, and pasta dishes, but may require specific requests. Veganism is less common, and gluten-free options can be challenging outside of dedicated establishments.
Local etiquette
- •Order coffee at the bar for a lower price; sitting at a table incurs a service charge.
- •Tipping is not obligatory; a small amount (a few euros) for excellent service is appreciated but not expected.
- •Reservations are recommended for dinner, especially on weekends or at popular restaurants.
- •Dinner is typically eaten later, starting around 8:00 PM or 8:30 PM.
- •It's customary to finish your plate to show appreciation for the meal.