10 Must-Try Foods in Florence, Italy (And Where to Find Them)
Florence is a culinary dream, blending rich history with mouthwatering flavors.
Every dish in this Tuscan capital tells a story, whether it’s rooted in ancient traditions or shaped by the city’s vibrant culture.
From savory specialties to sweet indulgences, here are ten must-try foods in Florence and where you can savor the very best.
1. Bistecca alla Fiorentina: A Steak Like No Other
A hallmark of Tuscan cuisine, Bistecca alla Fiorentina is a thick-cut, bone-in steak from the Chianina breed of cattle.
Grilled to perfection, it’s served rare to preserve its natural flavor and tenderness.
To experience the ultimate Fiorentina steak, head to Trattoria Mario near San Lorenzo Market.
The no-frills atmosphere lets the dish speak for itself. Pair it with a robust Chianti for the full experience.
2. Ribollita: A Hearty Vegetable Soup
This traditional Tuscan soup is the epitome of comfort food.
Ribollita, meaning “reboiled,” is a mix of leftover bread, cannellini beans, and seasonal vegetables, simmered together for a rich, hearty flavor.
La Casalinga in the Oltrarno district offers an authentic version that tastes like it came straight from a Tuscan grandmother’s kitchen.
3. Lampredotto: The Street Food King
For an authentic Florentine street food experience, try lampredotto.
Made from the fourth stomach of a cow, this delicacy is slow-cooked with herbs and served in a sandwich, often topped with spicy or green sauce.
Look for food trucks like Nerbone in the San Lorenzo Market to taste this local favorite.
4. Pappardelle al Cinghiale: A Wild Boar Delight
Wide ribbons of pappardelle pasta are coated in a savory sauce made from slow-cooked wild boar.
This dish perfectly embodies the robust flavors of Tuscany.
Osteria Vini e Vecchi Sapori, tucked away near Piazza della Signoria, serves a memorable version in a cozy, intimate setting.
5. Truffle Pasta: Luxurious and Earthy
Truffles are a prized ingredient in Tuscany, and Florence showcases them beautifully in dishes like truffle pasta.
The rich, earthy aroma of shaved truffles elevates the simplest pasta dishes to gourmet status.
Visit Il Latini for a plate of tagliolini pasta crowned with generous shavings of truffle.
6. Schiacciata: Florentine Focaccia
Schiacciata is Florence’s take on focaccia, infused with olive oil and often filled with local ingredients like cured meats, cheeses, or even Nutella for a sweet twist.
Stop by All’Antico Vinaio for some of the city’s best schiacciata sandwiches, beloved by locals and visitors alike.
7. Cantucci and Vin Santo: A Sweet Ending
End your meal with cantucci, small almond biscuits, dipped in Vin Santo, a sweet dessert wine.
This classic pairing is both simple and indulgent.
Rivoire, located in Piazza della Signoria, offers a sophisticated setting to enjoy this Florentine treat while people-watching.
8. Gelato: A Cool Treat with Deep Roots
Florence is considered the birthplace of gelato, and the city boasts some of the best gelaterias in Italy.
Creamy, flavorful, and made with fresh ingredients, gelato is a must-try.
Head to Gelateria dei Neri for unique flavors like ricotta and fig or classic pistachio.
9. Pecorino Toscano: A Cheese Lover’s Dream
Pecorino Toscano is a sheep’s milk cheese with a rich, nutty flavor, often served with honey or marmalade.
It’s a perfect accompaniment to wine and charcuterie.
Visit Mercato Centrale and pick up some fresh pecorino from local vendors to enjoy on a picnic.
10. Panforte: A Taste of History
This dense, spiced fruitcake is a Tuscan specialty that dates back to medieval times.
Packed with nuts, dried fruits, and honey, panforte makes for a delicious snack or dessert.
Grab a slice at Pasticceria Nencioni to taste tradition in every bite.
Florence’s culinary scene is a reflection of its rich heritage and love for good food. Each dish carries a piece of the city’s soul, and exploring them is as much a cultural journey as it is a culinary one.
Whether dining at a rustic trattoria or snacking at a bustling food market, these foods will make your visit to Florence unforgettable.
