10 Must-Try Foods in Florence, Italy (And Where to Find Them)

Eating in Florence is a gourmet fantasy.

The Tuscan capital blends rich history and world-pioneering flavors into the very core of each dish.

Although some recipes are thousands of years old while others are excitingly unfamiliar, these ten foods are essential.

1. Bistecca alla Fiorentina

Fiorentina is Tuscan cuisine’s flag.

This bone-in Chianina steak is grilled to perfection and served rare to lock as much flavor and juice as possible.

2. Fiorentina Ribollita

A Vegetable-Heavy Soup.

This is one of the renowned Tuscan dishes.

It is a vegetable-based soup, meaning it never wants for hearty chunks of bread what cannellini beans and vegetables stewed to perfection as its name suggests, Ribollita means “reboiled” soup.

3. Lampredotto

The King of Street Food It’s difficult to compile a list of Florence’s food highlights without mentioning lampredotto.

Try a sandwich of the slowly simmered fourth stomach of a cow.

4. Pappardelle pasta

This dish is a perfect representation of hearty Tuscany.

Tucked into an alleyway near Piazza della Signoria, makes a memorable version in cozy, intimate digs.

5. Truffle Pasta: Rich and Earthy

Florence, truffles, one of Tuscany’s most coveted additions to food, are incorporated in pastas, like truffle pastas.

The intense earthy perfume of shaved truffles takes the most humble pasta to haute cuisine.

6. Schiacciata: Tuscan Flatbread

Decorated with olive oil and similar to focaccia, schiacciata is Florence’s version, often stuffed with local products — cured meats, cheeses and, in a sweet variation, Nutella.

Make a stop at All’Antico Vinaio for some of the best schiacciata sandwiches in the city, a local and tourist favorite.

7. Cantucci and Vin Santo

Finish off your meal dipping cantucci, small almond biscuits, into Vin Santo, a sweet dessert wine.

This classic pairing is easy, yet decadent.

Rivoire, in Piazza della Signoria, provides an elegant atmosphere in which to savor the Florentine delicacy while watching the frames of life unfold.

8. Gelato: A Favorite Frozen Treat with Deep Roots

Florence is the birthplace of gelato, and its gelaterias are among the best in Italy.

Gelato is rich, flavorful and so fresh, you just have to try it.

Go to Gelateria dei Neri for such flavors as ricotta and fig or classic pistachio.

9. Pecorino Toscano: Heaven for Cheese Lovers

Pecorino with a Side of Honey: A Delectable Cheese

Pecorino Toscano, a cheese made from sheep’s milk, is hard, salty, and boasts a rich nutty flavor.

It is usually seasoned with honey or marmalade, and when you combine it with wine, charcuterie, or a freshly baked loaf of bread, it is divine.

Head to Mercato Centrale and purchase a piece of freshly cut pecorino from one of the stands outside to enjoy on your picnic..

10. Panforte: A Slice of History

Panforte is a heavy, spiced fruitcake endemic to Tuscany and harking from the Middle Ages.

Made with nuts, dried fruit, and honey, this sweet meat loaf is excellent for nibbling during the day, such as at Cafe Pasticceria Nencioni.

The parity of history preserves a panforte packed with tradition.

Florence’s food is a tribute to the town’s history.