10 Best Affordable Restaurants to Eat in Florence
Florence is a city that offers an incredible culinary experience, one that beautifully reflects its rich history and culture. From the iconic dishes of Tuscany to the hidden gems scattered throughout the city, there’s something for everyone. If you’re planning a visit, prepare to indulge in delightful meals without breaking the bank. Here’s a guide to some of the best places to eat in Florence, where quality meets affordability.
Restaurants to try in Florence: our top recommendations
Florence, the capital of the Renaissance, boasts a culinary scene that is nothing short of divine. The city's dining philosophy centers around simplicity, using fresh, local ingredients that highlight the region's flavors. In addition to renowned Italian staples, be sure to explore traditional Florentine dishes that will tantalize your taste buds.
Some must-try local dishes include the famous lampredotto sandwich, a comforting bowl of pappa al pomodoro, or the iconic fiorentina steak. Exploring these local delicacies will add an unforgettable layer to your dining experience.
* We strive to keep our recommendations current, but if you encounter any changes, please let us know so we can update the information. Thank you! 🙂
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1. Osteria All’antico Vinaio
Once our favorite spot in Florence, this place has become quite popular lately, meaning long lines are a common sight. If you want to avoid waiting, try to visit during off-peak hours. If the line is daunting, don’t fret—there are plenty of other tasty spots nearby.
Here, the specialty is schiacciata, a square, crispy flatbread filled with your choice of ingredients. Expect top-notch quality as they prepare your sandwich right before your eyes, using fresh ingredients like ham, mozzarella, and ripe tomatoes. Their unique "house specialties" are also worth trying.
We highly recommend the schiacciata with porchetta and pecorino cheese, as well as the 'Boss' version which includes serrano ham, pecorino, and truffle sauce—both were absolutely delicious!
2. Trattoria Mario
This traditional eatery is a gem in Florence, where you can indulge in a fantastic fiorentina. If you’re looking for budget-friendly options, there are numerous daily specials available for under €10, particularly for first courses. The slow-cooked pasta dishes are a highlight, especially the ragù, which is simmered for around four hours—making a noticeable difference!
A visit here is not just about the food; the friendly owners and reasonable prices make it a must-visit. Pro tip: consider joining a free walking tour to enrich your experience and learn more about the city!
3. Da Nerbone: A Florentine Legend
This spot is perfect for those who want to delve into authentic Tuscan cuisine without frills. Expect to share tables with locals, including charming elderly Tuscan patrons and enthusiastic tourists. Here, you can enjoy the best lampredotto sandwich in Florence, along with a delectable pasta dish made with eggplant, tomatoes, and pecorino cheese. For those unfamiliar with lampredotto, it’s a traditional Florentine dish made from cow tripe!
Prices are affordable, with sandwiches and soups ranging from €4.50 to €6, and pasta dishes typically between €7 and €10. Don’t miss the chance to explore the second floor of the Mercato Centrale, which features a more upscale food court with enticing options from traditional Tuscan to international cuisines.
4. Trattoria Da Rocco
Located within the Mercato di Sant’Ambrogio, Da Rocco is another excellent choice for affordable, delicious dishes. This family-run business is very popular and offers a cozy atmosphere where you can enjoy typical Tuscan cuisine at reasonable prices.
5. I’Brindellone
A Florence institution, I’Brindellone is famous for serving what many claim to be the best fiorentina in town. Be prepared to spend a bit more here, but the experience of savoring this signature dish is well worth it. A true treat for steak lovers!
6. Gustarium
Craving pizza? Look no further! Gustarium serves some of the best pizza in Florence, available by weight so you can mix and match different varieties. Although it's not the cheapest in town, the quality of the fresh ingredients justifies the price—around €10 for a generous serving.
Bonus: the staff is incredibly friendly, making it an ideal choice for grabbing a pizza to go and enjoying it in one of Florence's charming squares.
7. Trattoria I’raddi: A Hidden Gem in Oltrarno
Nestled in the Oltrarno district, this restaurant boasts a seasonal menu that changes every couple of months. While we didn’t visit, the rave reviews we’ve read praise dishes like mixed Tuscan crostini, pappa al pomodoro, and tortelli di patate with Tuscan ragù. Previously, they offered a daily menu with dishes starting at €4, but now it’s à la carte, with average prices between €10 and €15 per person.
8. Pizzeria Berberè
On my last trip to Florence, I decided to try Pizzeria Berberè after skipping the Antico Vinaio due to long lines. I opted for a pizza topped with buffalo mozzarella, prosciutto di Norcia, arugula, and orange-infused olive oil, and it was simply amazing! Just a heads up: if you’re a fan of tomato sauce, ask for the red version as I accidentally ordered the white.
There are two locations: in San Frediano and Santa Croce, with plans for more openings in the future!
9. Pasticceria Sapienti&Crociani
Located near Porta al Prato in the Santa Maria Novella area, this charming bakery offers delightful mignon pastries and a variety of sweet treats, including mini cannolis and pistachio desserts served in chocolate cups. If you're looking for a cozy spot to enjoy a rich cappuccino along with delicious pastries, this is your place!
10. Gelateria dei Neri: The Best Gelato in Florence
To top off your culinary adventure, nothing beats a scoop of gelato. Gelateria dei Neri is renowned for serving some of the best gelato in Florence, conveniently located near Antico Vinaio. With a plethora of flavors ranging from the classic to the unique, make sure to try their pistachio and raspberry varieties—they're simply out of this world!
More places to eat in Florence (including vegan options)
If you’re still hungry for more, here are additional spots where you can dine well in Florence at reasonable prices:
- Trattoria Da Burde
- Osteria Nuvoli
- Trattoria dell’orto
- Osteria de’ Neri
- Trattoria Il Contadino
For those seeking vegan options, consider the following restaurants:
- Il Vegano
- Giumella
- Amblé
- ORA
- Santo Falafel
- Tripperia Vegana
- L’Ov Osteria Vegana
- Veg&Veg
- Ramerino
Take a look at this interactive map that highlights the locations of all the recommended restaurants in Florence:
With so many options, it’s nearly impossible to leave Florence feeling hungry. From traditional dishes to modern interpretations, the city is a haven for food lovers. Be sure to indulge in these 10 restaurants where you can enjoy a fantastic meal without overspending. Have you visited any of these places? We’d love to hear your recommendations!
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