Best Restaurants in Florence
When in Florence you will have so many options when it come to somewhere to eat so we have the best restaurants in Florence highlighted right here.
Where to eat in Florence
Florence eateries usually include a cover charge or coperta for the table, usually around €1-2 per person (kids too), although in popular tourist areas this could be much more. You can’t get out of paying this even if you have the simplest meal, don’t drink water or eat the bread. However, if the coperta isn’t included on the menu, you don’t have to pay it.
Just by being seated at a table, you will have to pay a service charge (servizio) of 10-15% of the bill. Interestingly enough, it’s only common in cities like Florence which are popular with tourists. If you’re in a group, you can be assured of paying servizio. Be aware: servizio doesn’t replace a tip; you have to pay that as well.
You don’t have to tip when you dine in Italy – if you’re a local. It’s an accepted fact that Americans and other foreign visitors must tip. Of course, it’s your choice – do so at your discretion, if the service is good or if the people you’re dining with have required lots of attention. Tipping involves leaving a few €1 or €2 coins – nothing more. Make sure it’s cash and not on the bill.
You’ll be served bottled water during the meal – it’s bad manners to request tap water or filtered water. Sometimes, restaurants will offer filtered water, but it’s the exception rather than the rule.
In Italy, drinking coffee with milk after 11am is frowned upon. Cappuccino is only drunk in the morning, and after that, you should sip espresso. You can order espresso macchiato which includes a smattering of milk foam with your espresso, or a marrocchino – espresso with chocolate and a tiny bit of milk.
In coffee shops, one drinks coffee standing up at the bar. If you choose to sit down, you’ll be charged a coperta.
Dinner is eaten late in Italy – between 8 and 9pm. If you’re peckish before that, you can follow the tradition and enjoy an aperitivo, served with drinks at bars and wine bars. Some establishments offer a free snack.
The top restaurants in Florence
As always, we do not think that the most expensive restaurant is necessarily the best so the options below vary in price but all are highlighted to provide you with great combinations of atmosphere, experience and really tasty food.
Irene • €€€ • City Center • Map +39 055 273 5891
Probably the most expensive recommendation but definitely one of the best restaurants in Florence. Located in the Hotel Savoy, which sits on lively Piazza della Repubblica, this gourmet restaurant offers a lovely outdoor terrace where you can dine al fresco on modern Tuscan dishes. You can also sit inside to enjoy the delightful gourmet dishes. It’s best to book in advance, especially if you want to sit outside on the piazza.
Pensavo Peggio • Santa Maria Novella • Map +39 055 230 2987
Warm and cosy trattoria offering excellent Florentine dishes. In fact, the locals come here to eat, so you know the food is great. The kitchen is open so you can watch your food being prepared. Menu includes great pasta and lots of meat dishes. Booking is advisable.
Trattoria Mario • San Lorenzo • Map • +39 055 218550
Lively eaterie offering superb Florentine dishes to locals and visitors every lunchtime. Dining here is an adventure, a taste of traditional Florence at its best. The menu is varied and offers familiar dishes as well as some unique Tuscan specialties. It’s best to get here early as one cannot book and the place is always full.
Momio • San Frediano • Map +39 055 225652
This modern eaterie is known for its great food and lively atmosphere. It’s open all day, and most famous for its brunches and evening meals. A variety of exciting dishes include international favorites including Eggs Benedict and a special rabbit pasta that is a popular dinner choice.
All’Antico Viniao • Santa Croce • Map +39 055 238 2723
There are 3 restaurants linked together, all within close proximity. All’Antico Viniao started as a sandwich shop selling street food and has become a choice of popular eateries offering superb modern Italian dishes. Depending on which branch you go to, you can get seating, but the original is a takeaway, so you’ll have to stand. Bring cash as they don’t take cards, and come early as there are no reservations.
Acquapazza • San Marco • Map +39 348 919 7665
Gourmet eaterie specializing in fresh seafood and other fine Tuscan fare including some excellent meat and poultry. The wine list is excellent and you can enjoy food and wine pairings with local and imported vintages. Reserve a table in advance.
Trattoria Giovanni • Santo Spirito • Map +39 371 194 0715
Authentic Tuscan restaurant situated close to Piazza Santo Spirito. Menu includes superbly prepared local dishes washed down with Tuscan wines. Offers an excellent example of Tuscan food done well. Book in advance as it’s busy in high season.
Gusta Pizza • Santo Spirito • Map +39 055 285068
Choose your pizza or pasta from the tiny menu and then enjoy sitting at a long table or converted wine barrel. Even the wine is served in plastic cups – but nothing spoils the friendly atmosphere and stunning food. You may have to wait because it’s always busy here.
Osteria Brucia Tegami • Bagno a Ripoli • Map +39 055 682 1276
This traditional eaterie offer fabulous authentic Tuscan dishes lovingly prepared with seasonal ingredients. The wine menu is just as exciting; it offers boutique Italian wines including Tuscan delights.
Ciro & Sons • San Lorenzo • Map +39 055 289694
Family-run Italian trattoria offering superb pizza and pasta including stunning gluten-free and dairy-free options. The vibe is lively and warm and the food is exceptional. Choose a table inside the frescoed restaurant or sit outside with the fairy lights.
Le Vespe Café • Sant’Ambrosio • Map +39 055 388 0062
Whether you’re looking for a home-from-home meal, or yearning for excellent vegan and vegetarian dishes, this restaurant has them all. Portions are huge, the coffee is great and the atmosphere is always welcoming.
Targato Fi • San Frediano • Map +39 055 936 7689
Dine in style on superb Italian dishes, some really innovative, all prepared using fresh seasonal ingredients. The cocktail bar is popular for a reason – the menu is delightful and varied. The restaurant is also open for lunch, but it comes into its own for dinner and aperitivo.
Trattoria da Ruggero • Porto Romana • Map +39 055 220542
This intimate trattoria offers a selection of local fare at its best. It could become a favorite haunt, as the food is delicious and the staff is so friendly. If you intend coming in the evening, we suggest you reserve a table.
Trattoria Pandemonio • San Frediano • Map +39 055 224002
Renowned for its superb Florentine steak, this family-owned eaterie also offers an extensive wine list. As it’s really busy at dinnertime, it’s a good idea to book a table.