Let's be real - finding truly great places to eat in Florence isn't as simple as some travel blogs make it seem. I learned this the hard way during my first year living here, wasting money on tourist traps with pretty views but disappointing food. After five years of exploring every alley and chatting with butchers, cheesemongers, and nonne about where they eat, I've compiled what I genuinely believe are the best restaurants in Florence Italy.

How This Florence Restaurant Guide Works

This isn't some algorithm-generated list. Every spot here earned its place because:

• I've eaten there multiple times (some dozens!)
• They maintain consistent quality even during peak season
• Locals actually eat there regularly
• They represent different budgets and dining styles

Look, I'll also tell you when something's overhyped. Some famous spots live on past reputation but honestly? Not worth your limited meal times in Florence.

The Ultimate Florence Restaurant Rankings

Here's a quick comparison table of my top picks across categories before we dive into details:

Detailed Reviews of Florence's Best Restaurants

Now let's get into the specifics that actually help you decide where to eat. I've included practical stuff like exact locations and opening hours because honestly, how many times have you wandered around hungry trying to find a place?

Trattoria Sostanza - The Butter Chicken Legend

Address: Via del Porcellana, 25R (walking distance from Santa Maria Novella station)

Hours: Mon-Sat 12:30-2pm, 7:30-9:30pm (Closed Sunday)

Don't let the unassuming exterior fool you - this tiny place serves what locals argue is Florence's best chicken. Their signature Pollo al Burro arrives sizzling in a copper pan with insane amounts of butter. It's simple perfection. But honestly? Their artichoke omelette might be even better. Thin, crispy edges with tender artichokes inside - it ruined all other omelettes for me forever.

Practical tips:

• Cash only (don't get caught out!)
• Arrive 15 minutes before opening to get a table
• Portions are huge - share dishes

Is it among the best restaurants in Florence Italy? Absolutely. Though be warned - the cramped seating isn't for claustrophobics.

Buca Lapi - Steak Royalty

Address: Via del Trebbio, 1R (cellar beneath Palazzo Antinori)

Hours: Daily 7pm-10:30pm (lunch only for groups)

The gold standard for Bistecca alla Fiorentina. They source Chianina beef from trusted farms near Siena, grill it over wood embers, and serve it bloody with just olive oil and salt. The subterranean dining room feels like a medieval feast hall. Order the white beans and a bottle of Chianti Classico to complete the experience.

Warning: Steak is priced by weight (around €60/kg). A typical T-bone for two costs €70-90. Splurge-worthy? Yes. But if budget's tight, try Perseus near Piazza della Libertà instead.

Hidden Gems Most Blogs Miss

Beyond the famous names, these authentic spots offer incredible value:

Trattoria Sabatino

Address: Via Pisana, 2R (Oltrarno district)

Hours: Mon-Fri 12-2:30pm ONLY (get there by 11:45am!)

This family-run canteen hasn't changed since 1956. €4 pasta plates, €9 secondi. Nonna cooks whatever's seasonal - Tuesday's rabbit stew nearly made me cry it was so good. Cash only, zero English spoken. Perfect for experiencing real Florentine home cooking.

Da Burde

Address: Via Pistoiese, 6 (15-min taxi from center)

Hours: Tue-Sat 12:30-2:30pm, 7:30-10:30pm; Sun lunch only

Worth the trip for handmade pasta like tortelli di patate (potato-filled pillows with meat ragù). Their wild boar stew is legendary. Decor's stuck in the 70s but who cares when food's this good? Mains around €15.

Essential Florence Dining Tips

After countless meals (and mistakes), here's what I wish I'd known earlier:

• Reservations Rule: For dinner at popular spots, book 2-4 weeks ahead. Use TheFork app or call directly (many places don't use email)
• Coperto Charges: That €2-4 per person "cover charge" on bills? Normal. It's for bread and table service.
• Tipping: Round up or leave 5-10% for exceptional service. Not expected but appreciated.
• Meal Times: Lunch 12:30-2:30pm, dinner 7:30-10:30pm. Many places close between services.
• Dress Code: Casual but tidy. Only top-end places require jackets (like Enoteca Pinchiorri).

Oh and that €10 pizza near the Duomo? Tourist trap. Walk 10 minutes to Gusta Pizza in Santo Spirito instead.

Florence Restaurant FAQs

What area has the best restaurants in Florence Italy?

Depends! Santa Croce has trendy wine bars, Oltrarno has authentic trattorias, and San Lorenzo Market offers casual eats. Avoid immediate Duomo/Piazza della Signoria fronts - pricey and mediocre.

Is Florence expensive for dining?

Can be if you stick to tourist zones. But follow locals: €1.50 espresso at bars (drink standing!), €8 panini, €15 pasta at neighborhood spots. Fine dining costs less than Paris/London.

What dish must I try in Florence?

Beyond steak: Ribollita soup, lampredotto sandwiches, cantucci with vin santo dessert wine, and pecorino cheese with pear.

How do I avoid tourist traps?

Three rules: 1) Menus with photos? Skip. 2) Staff outside hawking tables? Run. 3) English menu only? Questionable. Better places have Italian-first menus.

Final Thoughts on Florence's Dining Scene

What defines the best restaurants in Florence Italy isn't Michelin stars (though we have those too) - it's places preserving traditions while sourcing incredible local ingredients. Whether you're splurging on a €100 steak or enjoying a €5 panino, prioritize authenticity over instagrammable views. Tuscan food shines through simplicity.

The trattoria with handwritten menus taped to the window? The wine bar where Nonno argues about football? That's where you'll taste the real Florence. Just remember to book ahead for dinner!