A Guide to Wining & Dining in Florence

WHERE TO EAT THE BEST VEGETARIAN-FRIENDLY FOOD IN FLORENCE IN

20–30 minutes

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Table of Contents

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Here’s a little round-up of some of the most traditional food you can expect to eat in Florence

  • Fettunta – Meaning ‘greased slice’ This is known in wider Italy as Bruschetta The Tuscan version which is often made to celebrate the first olive oil season, is grilled bread rubbed with raw garlic cloves and drizzled in the best olive oil and sprinkled with sea salt.
  • Ravioli Nudi – Translated ‘naked ravioli’. Think spinach and ricotta without the pasta. it’s served with butter or a tomato sauce.
  • Crostini di Fegato/crostini Neri – Served at aperitivo time, this is like a tapenade or chicken liver pate served on small toasts
  • Pappa al Pomodoro – A simple bread with olive oil, basil, tomatoes – very popular amongst the locals.
  • Pappardelle Sulla Lepre – Flat, thick pasta often served with a hare ragu sauce (can be made vegetarian)
  • Ribollita – This is a traditional Tuscan soup adn sometiems refreed to as ‘pheasant food. It’s cheep to make and involves re-heated leftovers (reboiled) of the vegetable soup of the previous day.
  • Bistecca Fiorentina – The absolute pride of Florence for steak eaters. The steak is 2 inches thick, including a bone,
  • Peposo Alla Fiorentina – A stew of beef, wime and black peppercorns.
  • Lampredotto – A local Florentine speciality. It consists of the fourth and final stomach of a cow, slow-cooked with tomato, onion, parsley, and celery. Tripe ampredotto are traditionally served on a crunchy bread bun, often first soaked in the broth and drizzled with a green sauce that is spicy
  • Fagioli – White beans served with a saue of garlic, sage and peppercorns.
  • Spinach & Artichokes – Vegetarians like ourselves, you’ll be happy to know many foods in Florence such as paninis, pizza and pasta are covered with these ingredients along with a drizzle of olive oil
  • Gelato – It is rumoured that gelato was created in Florence. .Some great flavours to try in Florence are, Nocciola (hazelnut), Zabaione (egg yolks and sweet Marsala), Crema (custard flavour – Not Vanilla), Stracciatella (chocolate chip ice cream), Pistachio and Mandorla (almond).
  • Zuppa Inglese – biscotti layered with a liquid custard adn often accompanied by Alchermes (local liquor)
  • Negroni – A local cocktail made to perfection, it’s one part gin, one part vermouth rosso, and one part Campari, with a garnish of orange peel.
  • Chianti Wine – Te wine of teh region, made from at least 70% Sangiovese grapes and names a Chianti Classico is what you shoudl be looking for.

1. Caffè degli Artigiani

This little café is tucked away behind the Piazza della Passera in Santo Spirito and serves some great coffee, cakes, aperitivos and other sweet treats. As the name suggests it was a place for craftsman to stop by and grab a quick coffee and chat not much has changed since 1945 as it still very much has that vibe. They also serve sandwiches and salads and let me just add, the toilet is a stand up one, hole in the ground-just so there’s no nasty surprises!

Vegetarian food in Florence. The exterior of Caffè degli Artigiani with cream walls and outdoor seating.
Vegetarian food in Florence. The interior of Caffè degli Artigiani cream walls adn cafe written on it. On a ledge there's a cappuccino and an apple tart cake.
Vegetarian food in Florence. The counter of Caffè degli Artigiani with cajes, coffees and bottles of alcohol on the shelf behind.

The Details

  • Location: Via dello Sprone, 16r, 50125 Florence I Tel. +39 055 291 882 I Website I Map Location
  • Recommendations: Cappuccino and apple pie
  • Price Range: €/€€
The interiors of La Drogheria in Florence with green lampshade bar lights and a black marble bar with cream studded seats
A,n espresso at La Drogheria with the branding in black on the saucer laying on top of a marble background

The Details

  • Location: Largo Pietro Annigoni, 22, 50132 Florence.I Tel. +39 055 247 8869 I Website I Map Location
  • Recommendations: Great Espresso
  • Price Range: €/€€

Gilli is the oldest café in the city of Florence. Established over 270 years ago by a Swiss family in Medici-era Florence, steps away from the Duomo. Caffè Gilli started out as a pastry shop and became known around the world for its artisanal sweets. The prestigious Caffè Gilli restaurant offers seasonal menus highlighting the best of Tuscan and Italian culinary traditions, enriched with a careful selection of wine.

Vegetarian-friendly food in Florence. The exterior of Caffè Gilli with tall brown windows, awning adn brown 2windows
Vegetarian-friendly food in Florence. The interior of Caffè Gilli with a chandelier in the middle of the ceiling with cream and brown tables and chairs
Vegetarian-friendly food in Florence. The interior of Caffè Gilli with the counter full og sweet treats and a menu
Vegetarian-friendly food in Florence. The interior of Caffè Gilli with a chandelier in the middle of the ceiling with cream and brown tables and chairs

The Details

  • Location: Via Roma, 1r, 50123 FlorenceI Tel. +39 055 2138 96 I Website I Map Location
  • Recommendations: A coffee and one of their delicious pastries or chocolate confectionery
  • Price Range: €/€€

Caffè del Verone is the cafeteria on the top of the Istituto degli Innocenti museum in piazza Santissima Annunziata. Verone means balcony. This was the place where they would hang the clothes back when the Istituto was still a orphanage.

The views of rooftops out of the windows of Caffè del Verone. Loggias and a green domed building in the distance with a mountain behind it
The views of rooftops out of the windows of Caffè del Verone. Loggias and a green domed building in the distance with a mountain behind it
The views of the duomo out of the windows of Caffè del Verone. A cup of coffee frames the picture

We went during the day for coffee but we hear it has a beautifully special atmosphere in the evening too. The café itself is housed in a glass window structure at the top of the museum and the terrace reveals stunning views of the terracotta rooftops and the Duomo stands majestic from this position.

The views of the duomo out of the windows of Caffè del Verone. A cup of coffee frames the picture with a focaccia sandwich
The interiors of the Caffè del Verone. Tables and chairs with glass windows behind with view sof the surroundings.
  • Location: Museo degli Innocenti, P.za della SS. Annunziata, 13, 50121 Florence I Tel. +39 345 1678 267 I Website I Map Location
  • Recommendations: A cappuccino plus a focaccia sandwich with a view.
  • Price Range: €/€€

If you take the lift as far as it will go up in the department store Rinascente then take the stairs up to the sixth floor, you will arrive at the Terraza de Rinascente. Ok so it’s a litte over-priced but the views of the Duomo are phenomenal from this spot as well as a birdseye vista of Piazza delle Repubblica at the opposite end. Grab a hot chocolate, indulge in the extra cream and take in the rooftop experience.

 Caffè La Terrazza De Rinascente rooftop views of the Duomo.
 Caffè La Terrazza De Rinascente rooftop views of the Duomo in the background. There is a cup of hot chocolate with cream on the edge of the wall
Caffè La Terrazza De Rinascente rooftop views over Piazza della Repubblica
  • Location: Piazza della Repubblica, 4, 50122 Florence I Tel. +39 055 4933 168 I Map Location
  • Recommendations: A hot chocolate with all the trimmings
  • Price Range: €€€

Located in San Frediano, this was one of my favourite bookshops with great Espresso to match. Quirky and fun with deliberately mismatched furniture and a piano, this place is great to relax with a good book and even an alcoholic beverage should you desire. All books are in Italian-just to note!

Bejal sitting on an armchair surrounded by books adn mustard yellow walls at Libreria Cafè La Cité
Processed with MOLDIV
Libreria Cafè La Cité rooms with a floral sofa, teal and mustard yellow walls
Libreria Cafè La Cité, the piano with a cream stool and a cup of half drunk coffee.
Libreria Cafè La Cité with a pale blue armchair with a buttoned back and a bookcase containing books scattered throughout.
  • Location: Borgo S. Frediano, 20/R, 50124 Florence I Tel. +39 349 901 1105 I Website I Map Location
  • Recommendations: Great coffee and books
  • Price Range: €/€€

7. Sottarno Commestibili

A lovely cute café adjoining SoprArno Suites is this little space serving pastries and a great variety of coffee and drinks. Think cute French bistrot styling with the owner’s collection of world menus on the walls. Very Kitsch.

The interiors of the Sottarno Commestibili cafe, with wood panelling adn tables for 2.. the tables are set with crockery and cutlery
  • Location: Via Maggio, 53 R, 50125 Florence I Tel. +39 055 073 9304 I Map Location
  • Recommendations: They do a great breakfast and cafe style food and drinks throughout the day.
  • Price Range: €/€€

8. La Ménagère

A truly beautiful café, restaurant and bar, grab a comfy sofa or a bar seat and enjoy one of their speciality coffees or even an alcoholic beverage. This is quite a unique space as it’s a combination of dining establishment with a floral outlet as well as an interiors store. You have to visit to see for yourself!

The arched stone interiors of La Ménagère. There are 4 tables of 2 set with cutlery adn in the background is a long shelf with potted plants adn jars.
  • Location: Via de’ Ginori, 8/R, 50123 Florence I Tel. +39 055 0750 600 I Website I Map Location
  • Recommendations; Great coffees as well as alcoholic drinks
  • Price Range: €€

9. Ditta Artiglianale

This place has two locations, one in Oltrano and another in Santa Croce (which is where we headed) Ditta Artigianale was introduced to me by my Florentine friend, Lucrezia and we’ve enjoyed a very good Espresso here. They have their own micro-roastery and also serve a delicious array of snacks. Also a great place to take your laptop, or meet friends in a relaxing industrial environment. They also serve a small selection of aperitivios.

Vegetarian food in Florence - Lucrezia and Bejal sitting at a table at Ditta Artiglianale cafe
The exterior of Ditta Artiglianale cafe with its big oval windows

The Details

  • Location: Via dei Neri, 30/32 R, 50122 Florence I Tel. +39 055 2741 541 I Website I Map Location
  • Recommendations; The coffees are the best.
  • Price Range: €

1 La Bottega del Buon Caffe

A Michelin starred restaurant situated overlooking the San Niccolò Tower at the foot of the Arno. Chef Erez and his team cook up a storm in the open kitchen and the theme is very much farm (they have a hotel and farm in near Siena) to kitchen.

Michelin Starred Dining at Bottega del Buon Caffe, Florence. A turquise dish with colourful edible flowers adn vegetables. The plate is on a grey slate table.

Related Article: Michelin-Starred Dining At LA Bottega Del Buon Caffe

The Details

  • Location: (Borgo in the City) Lungarno Benvenuto Cellini, 69R, 50125. Florence. I Website I Map Location
  • Reservations: Essential
  • Price Range: €€€€

2. Il Locale

This is most definitely a special occasion place. Think contemporary cuisine fused with medici palatial interiors and service to match. The food is inventive and the venue utterly beautiful in every way. Dimly lit and private dining spaces that serve some of the most stunningly presented dishes I’ve seen accompanied by a fabulous wine list and cocktail selection.

Locale Firenze Sugar encapsulated lime cake on a white bowl/plate. Vegetarian-friendly food in Florence.

Related Article: Il Locale: Fusing Contemporary Dining With Local Architecture

The Details

  • Location: Via delle Seggiole, 12r, 50122 Florence I Tel: +39 0559 067 188 I Website I Map Location
  • Reservation: Essential
  • Dietary Requirements: Call to confirm at time of reservation
  • Price Range: €€€

3. Il Barretto

Il Barretto, originally the first Harry’s Bar of Florence, has maintained its intriguing and seductive atmosphere of the sixties. Located in the heart of Florence, just a few steps from the Ponte Vecchio, it is a Restaurant cherished for its refined and discrete ambience and for its flavorful and thoughtful cuisine. The food is quite classical and the atmosphere definitely very romantic.

Vegetarian-friendly food in Florence at Il Barretto a caprese salad with tomatoes, rocket and mozzarella drizzled with olive oil and black pepper
The interiors of Il Barretto Restaurant. Chairs and tables with white table cloths upon which are empty wine glasses.

Related Article: Eat At The Best Fine Dining Restaurants in Florence

The Details

  • Location: Via del Parione, 50. 50123. Florence. I Tel. +39 055 294122 I Website I Map Location
  • Reservations: Recommended
  • Dietary Requirements: Vegetarian, other requirements should be enquired about at the time of booking.
  • Price Range: €€

4. Ora D’aria

The one Michelin Star Ora D’aria is situated between the Loggia dei Lanzi and the Ponte Vecchio and refers to the ‘hour of air’ prisoners in the former prison opposite the restaurant were given.

Vegetarian-friendly food in Florence. The interiors of Ora D'aria. White tables cloths with the transparent glass sliding doors of the kitchen in the background
Plates of appetizers at Ora D'aria - vegetarian-friendly food in Florence
Plates of appetizers at Ora D'aria - vegetarian-friendly food in Florence
The menu and a test tubes of oil  at Ora D'aria - vegetarian-friendly food in Florence

Head chef Marco Stabile has a reputation for exciting, contemporary food that reimagines many of Tuscany’s classic dishes. The menu is modern, the surroundings are minimalistic and they do a separate Vegetarian Taster menu.

Bejal with Chef Marco Stabile at Ora D'aria - vegetarian-friendly food in Florence

The Details

  • Location: Via dei Georgofili, 11R, 50100 Florence I Website I Tel. +39 0552 001699 I Map Location
  • Reservations: Essential
  • Dietary Requirements: Please call ahead to confirm, Vegetarian Taster menu options available.
  • Price Range: €€€

5. Konnubio

Think rustic but industrial decor, exposed brick point, a focal point of a bar and romance bought to you by means of fairy lights! Konnubio aims to deliver traditional Tuscan dishes and a fantastic level of service all headed by Chef Beatrice Segoni. The restaurant has also been nominated in fine dining food awards and it’s apparent to see why. A fantastic restaurant and wine bar if you fancy quite a special evening out.

Vegetarian-friendly food in Florence. The interiors of Konnubio Restaurant
Vegetarian-friendly food in Florence. Waiter pouring red wine into wine glass at Konnubio restaurant
Vegetarian-friendly food in Florence. vegetarian cannelloni with a green pea sauce on a white plate at Konnubio Restaurant.

The Details

  • Location: Via dei Conti, 8r, 50123 Florence. I Tel. +39 055 238 1189 I Website I Map Location
  • Reservations: Recommended
  • Dietary Requirements: Vegetarian options available.
  • Price Range: €€

Vegetarians, vegans and book lovers look no further. This is the sister restaurant to Santarosa, which you’ll be reading about shortly and is  a book shop come restaurant.

The interior book cases in BRAC with wine bottles and books and dining tables.
The interior book cases in BRAC with wine bottles and books and dining tables. A glass of red wine and pasta covered in tomato sauce.

It’s tucked away behind the Hotel Balestri and combines an indoor restaurant with outdoor space with counter style bar dining at the front of the restaurant. Sweet fairy lights add to the atmosphere and for book lovers like myself it’s an utter Aladdin’s cave but the food has got to be the main star of the show. It speaks volumes when I say you HAVE to book as the food is incredible. Baked dishes are a speciality and trust me when I say it’s one of the best veggie places I’ve tried in Italy, period!!

Ravioli covered in pea puree at BRAC
Tortellini filled with ginger, potato and garlic with a spinach sauce
Vegetarian-friendly food in Florence A cheesecake with summer fruits and strawberry coulis on top at BRAC

The Details

  • Location: Via dei Vagellai, 18/R, 50122 Florence I Website I Map Location
  • Reservations: Recommended but not essential
  • Dietary Requirements: Call ahead for any dietary requirements.
  • Price Range: €€

2. Bistrot Cafe 1926 – Vegetarian-Friendly Food in Florence

Away from the outskirts of the tourist spots, lies this cute French come Italian Bistrot, serving delicious cuisine, desserts and wait for it….over 500 types of Rum! If you like and know your rum this place will no doubt hit the spot for you! They even have live entertainment in the evenings but we dropped by for lunch and yep as predicted they serve a good pasta, soup and plenty of good quality vino! Oh and I hear their Tiramisu is pretty good to.

The interiors of Bistrot Cafe 1926 with photos on the walls,
Bejal sitting in Bistrot Cafe 1926 with door archway and 'Bistro' written on the door.
Bistrot Cafe 1926 bar area with bottels of alcohol. Vegetarian-friendly food in Florence
Ravioli with tomato sauce and a bowl of pumpkin soup with a bowl of bread. Vegetarian-friendly food in Florence.
Vegetarian-friendly food in Florence. The interiors of BRAC restairant.

The Details

  • Location: Via Giovan Battista Niccolini, 30/R, 50121 Florence I Website I Map Location
  • Reservations: Recommended but not essential
  • Dietary Requirements: Call ahead for any dietary requirements.
  • Price Range: €€

One of the four family founded and owned Cibreo eating establishments, I love the laid back café style of this restaurant. Grab a table outside, of course weather permitting and spend a late afternoon tucking into one of their set lunchtime menus.

The front door of Cibrèo Caffè. Vegetarian-friendly food in Florence
Cibrèo Caffè - Flat lay of bread slices and pasta covered in tomato sauce on a yellow table top. Vegetarian-friendly food in Florence

Great wine and fresh local traditional Tuscan cuisine with the added location of being right next to Sant’ Ambrogio market, it’s a great place to people watch. Gaze at locals going about their everyday business as you indulge in some of the fresh produce.

Cibrèo Caffè - Bejal wearing red dress and sitting on table eating food outside the restaurant
Cibrèo Caffè - pasta with tomato sauce adn a glass of red wine. A vase of yellow flowers. Vegetarian-friendly food in Florence.

The Details

  • Location: Via Andrea del Verrocchio, 5R, 50122 Florence I Tel. +39 055 2341 100 I Website I Map Location
  • Reservations: Not Essential
  • Dietary Requirements: Call ahead for any dietary requirements.
  • Price Range: €€

4. Santarosa Bistrot

If you’re a lover of urban al fresco dining, you’ve found your place at Santarosa Bistrot. Outdoor and indoor dining with a great selection of drinks and a fab lunch, dinner and evening drinks menu, there’s literally something for everyone here, including great coffee in that mix!

The interiors of Santarosa Bistrot with checked tiled flooring.
Santarosa Bistrot vase on table with flowers and a framed photo in the back.
Santarosa Bistrot vase on table with flowers and a black light in the back.

Seating is casual and relaxed and the vibe is very much chilled and the food well, the photos probably just speak for themselves. We would totally recommend the hazelnut tiramisu.

Hazelnut tiramisu in a Kilner jar with a light blue table cover at Santarosa Bistrot
Tomato gnocchi with prawn tagliatelle flat lay at Santarosa Bistrot. vegetarian-friendly food in Florence.
Bowl of bread with cutlery at Santarosa Bistrot. vegetarian-friendly food in Florence.
Cappuccino flat lay at Santarosa Bistrot. vegetarian-friendly food in Florence.

The Details

  • Location: Lungarno di Santa Rosa, 50142 Florence I Tel. +39 055 2309 057 I Website I Map Location
  • Reservations: Not necessary
  • Dietary Requirements: Well catered for
  • Price Range: €€

Located a few steps away from the Ponte Vecchio, is this traditional Tuscan Trattoria style restaurant owned by the lovely Giovanni. The open kitchen unfinished terracotta walls and quirky atmosphere inside it is definitely a draw for tourists as well as locals. The food is hearty and comforting with a fine selection of Chianti wines!

Il Parione exterior with green exterior and gold writing
Strawberry cheesecake  with strawberrie on the side at il Parione. Vegetarian Food in Fllorence.

The Details

  • Location: Via del Parione, 74/76 50123. Florence. I Tel. +39 055 214005 I Website I Map Location
  • Reservations: Essential
  • Dietary Requirements: Vegetarian, other requirements should be enquired about at the time of booking.
  • Price Range: €€

6. La Ménagère – Vegetarian-Friendly Food in Florence

La Ménagère interiors with a archway and a window through to the private dining area.

If you’re an instagram fiend then this place seriously will fit the aesthetics for you. A restaurant, bar, private dining space, florist and home interiors all in one makes for quite quirky but Uber stylish environment.

La Ménagère  plates and saucers with cups on shelves at back
La Ménagère - Bejal sitting eating Gnocchi  with a red wine glass in one hand.
La Ménagère - Interiors of restaurant with long white lights. Stone work and arches of restaurant
La Ménagère - Interiors of restaurant with long white lights. Stone work and arches of restaurant

The Details

  • Location: Lungarno di Santa Rosa, 50142 Florence I Tel. +39 055 2309 057 I Website I Map Location
  • Reservations: Not necessary
  • Dietary Requirements: Well catered for but can be discussed at time of reservation
  • Price Range: €€
Vegetarian-friendly food in Florence, a slice of chocolate cake topped with berries and fruit
Vegetarian-friendly food in Florence, beetroot pink risotto and ravioli in a yellow sauce.
Vegetarian-friendly food in Florence. Th einteriors of green foliage and red seating at L'OV restaurant.

The Details

  • Location: Piazza del Carmine, 4R, 50123 Florece I Tel. +39 055 2052 388 I Website I Map Location
  • Reservations: Recommended
  • Dietary Requirements: Vegetarian and Vegan food. Other dietary requirements need to be confirmed.
  • Price Range: €€

Casual Places For Vegetarian-Friendly Food In Florence

This hole in the wall pizza serves up the most authentic Tuscan pizza I’ve had for a fraction of the price of restaurants. The queues wrap round the street and that was all the convincing I needed to grab one of their small selection of pizzas. We took the pizzas back to our hotel and cracked open a bottle of red. And the rest as they say is history!

Gusta Pizza with Margherita in box with a bottle of red wine and a red wine glass next to pizza box. At Ad Astra Hotel Room
Gusta Pizza with Margherita in box with 2 red wine glasses next to pizza box. At Ad Astra Hotel Room
Gista Pizza exterior with motorbikes outside, taken in the dark
  • Location: Via Maggio, 46r, 50125 Florence. I Tel. +39 055 285 068 I Website I Map Location
  • Reservations: take-out only
  • Dietary Requirements: A few vegetarian
  • Price Range: €

2. Trattoria La Casalinga

Just off Santa Spirito Squares lies what is probably one of my all time favourite dining. It’s most definitely a hangout for locals and tourists alike and is popular for its traditional Italian home cooking style of Tuscany. The portions are large and the prices are reasonable. Plus the staff are super friendly and make you feel totally at home, you’ll feel nonna will be coming out soon!!

The Ravioli and tomato sauce maybe simple but utterly delicious as are the profiteroles.

Trattoria La Casalinga - mozzarella, tomatoes an basil salad with olive oil and balsamic vinegar in the background.
Trattoria La Casalinga - Ravioli covered in tomato sauce.
Trattoria La Casalinga - profiteroles on blue and white plates.

The Details

  • Location: Via dei Michelozzi, 9R, 50125 Florence I Tel. +39 055 218 624 I Website I Map Location
  • Reservations: Essential as it gets very busy
  • Dietary Requirements: Call ahead but Vegetarians and vegans catered for.
  • Price Range: €€

A fab place for lunch, Aperitivo or even small and simple plates. Full of locals and a fantastic vibe during the day and evenings, the food is traditional local and trust me, they can rustle up anything with little waste. That’s just the Tuscan way. The owner is super friendly. We came across it through a food tour we did with Florence & Chianti Tours.

Exterior of Osteria Nuvoli in Florence.
Cheeses and ham with wine at Osteria Nuvoli in Florence
Osteria Nuvoli - bottles of wines and photos in the cellar room of the bar

The Details

  • Location: Piazza dell’Olio, 15/r, 50123 Florence I Tel. +39 055 239 6616 I Map Location
  • Reservations: No Bookings
  • Dietary Requirements: Call ahead but Vegetarians catered for with bread, cheese, oils
  • Price Range: €/€€

 One of the most memorable cocktail experiences I’ve ever had has got to be at il Locale. Not only is it THE most beautiful bars we’ve ever set my eyes on but the bar tenders are ON POINT! Seriously, you say what the palette desires and they mix the alcohol and flavours! THE best Espresso Martini I’ve had in Florence, period!

Il Locale - The bar area with a menu and a gold lamp in Florence.
Il Locale - An Espresso Martini and red coloured cocktail with the alcohol bottles of the bar in the background in Florence.

Related Article: Il Locale: Fusing Contemporary Dining With Local Architecture

The Details

  • Location: Via delle Seggiole, 12r, 50122 Florence I Tel: +39 0559 067 188 I Website I Map Location
  • Reservation: Essential
  • Dietary Requirements: Call to confirm at time of reservation
  • Price Range: €€€

3. Le Volpi E L’uva

A definite favourite of the locals in Oltrarno is this small wine bar tucked in a small square off the main road to the Pitti palace. Booking is recommended to avoid disappointment. They even do wine tasting but we were here for aperitivo and opted for a couple of glasses of red with a cheese and ham board. There’s a lovely bustling atmosphere in the square and the wines are equisite.

Le Volpi E L'uva - 2 red wine glasses on a wooden table.
Le Volpi E L'uva - Ham and cheese with bread on wooden table in the street square with 2 red wine glasses

The Details

  • Location: Piazza dei Rossi, 1R, 50125 Florence I Tel: +39 055 239 8132 I Website I Map Location
  • Reservation: Recommended as Aperitivo time can be very busy.
  • Dietary Requirements: Vegetarian boards available upon request
  • Price Range: €

A new garden has blossomed in the historic center of Florence, thanks to the passion and care of Serre Torrigiani. A garden refuge where it’s possible to relax completely in a magical atmosphere. What I can only describe as a small oasis in the hustle and bustle of the historic centre featuring an urban garden, street food, art installations and live music.

Serre Torrigiani in Piazzetta -Table and outdoor chairs with green plnats in th ebackground.
Serre Torrigiani in Piazzetta - drinks menu with a small vase with yellow carnations.
Serre Torrigiani in Piazzetta - Bejal sitting with autumnal dress drinking a glass of Aperol Spritz.
Serre Torrigiani in Piazzetta - Glass of Aperol Spritz with. avase of yellow flowers.
Serre Torrigiani in Piazzetta - The garden area courtyard of the outdoor bar with tables and people sitting drinking in Florence.

The Details

  • Location: Piazza dei Tre Re, 1, 50123 Florence I Tel: +39 055 045 7441 I Website I Map Location
  • Reservation: Not Required.
  • Dietary Requirements: Wide range of drinks and table snacks
  • Price Range: €/€€

 

When it comes to aperitivos and you love your cocktails, I have to say for value for money as well as delicious concoctions, Soul Kitchen have you covered! I mean, don’t these names just sounds like something you want to drink? The Mezcal Gingerita and Chilicano?!! Also they serve small plates if you’re interested in a pre-dinner snack or just a light dinner.

A Mezcal Gingerita cocktail at Soul Kitchen in a Martini glass with a black background adn wooden surface.
Mezcal Gingerita and Chilicano bar area with bottles of alcohol adn spirits in the background.
A Mezcal Gingerita and Chilicano Cocktail on a wooden counter with a black background.

The Details

  • Location: Via dei Benci, 34r, 50122 Florence I Tel: +39 055 263 9772 I Website I Map Location
  • Reservation: Not Required.
  • Dietary Requirements: Call to confirm but Vegetarian and vegan dishes available
  • Price Range: €€

6. Procacci 1885

Procacci has been serving Tartufo since 1885, and boy is. this truffle cafe, a treat. They also serve drinks and cake but it’s definitely the truffles you need to go for. They are spread onto quaint finger sandwiches and are served with a glass of fizz. It’s probably the most expensive cafe snack we’ve ever had but probably the most decadent!

2 glasses of Champagne at Procacci with a truffle bread roll. The background has jars of truffles and conserves.
Bejal sat at bistro table The background has jars of truffles and conserves. Bejal is wearing a red berey and black leather jacket.

The Details

  • Location: Via de’ Tornabuoni, 64R, 50123 Florence I Tel:+39 055 211 656 I Website I Map Location
  • Reservation: Not Required.
  • Dietary Requirements: Wide range of snacks but ask at the counter to be on the safe side.
  • Price Range: €/€€
  • Belmond Villa San Michele – An ancient former monastery, now a 5 * luxury hotel, situated on the highest point in Fiesole. The terrace restaurant is open for lunch and dinner, for non-staying guests as well as those lucky enough to be staying here, Map Location. Related Post // Belmond Villa San Michele – A Stunning Luxury Hotel in Fiesole
  •  Roof terrace in Hotel Westin Excelsior – A great place to hang out for drinks and small plates. Restaurant Ses-serves brunch, lunch, aperitifs and dinner with. aview over the Florence roof tops, the Arno river and the south side of the town. Classic 5* hotel in the beautiful Piazza Ognissanti, by the Arno River. The roof terrace is open to non-residents of the hotel too. Map Location.
  • Hotel Continentale.- One of Ferragamo’s 4* design hotels situated by Arno river and right beside The Ponte Vecchio. The hotel has a contemporary, modern ambiance with light rooms and luxurious facilities. Non-guestes are welcoem here to dine or have a drink at the beautiful roof terrace, Aperitivo hours are usually between 18:00-21:00 unless tere is a private event on. It’ sbest to check before hand. Map Location.
  • Restaurant San Jacopo – A luxurious hotel and restaurant in Ferragamo’s Lungarno collection located on the south side of the Arno river. This maritime-themed classic elegant restaurant has river views from all the three dining spaces, and few ‘vip’ seats right by the balcony overlooking the town and the riverside. These obviously woudl need to be booked well in advance. Map Location
  • Gusta Osteria – located in the heart of Piazza Santo Spirito, this place is not touristy at all. Infact, nothing has been changed to accommodate tourists. the menu is super authentic and very well priced. Meals are often less tahn €10 and of course include a great range of pizza and pasta. Map Location
  • Trattoria Anita – located on a side street a few streets from Santa Croce and once again it wins on authentic cuisine and affordability.. Out of many restaurants in the city centre of Florence, Trattoria Anita is the most authentically Tuscan. A sign of how great it is is reflected in the number of local Florentines you’ll be sure to see dining here. Map Location
  • La Grotto Di Leo – This place can be found just a street away from the Santa Maria NOvella Train Station and serves uo great breakfast, lunch and dinner options.. They also serve breakfast all day (10:00-01:00) which is very unusual for Florence. Hearty Tuscan food at its finest. Map Location
  • Kitsch – This Aperitivo spot has to be included on the list! It truly is the best Aperitivo spot in the hwole of Florence! It’s a very populra hangout between Aperitivo time (18:00-21:00) and these guys serve large portions (platters to be accurate) of meat, fruit, cheese,paninis and pizza to accompany cocktails and wines/spirits. You usually get a small plate in most places. You can end up just filling up on the food adn won’t need a meal if you play things right!! Map Location.
  • Mercato Centrale: – The Classic Food Market. This historical indoor market has been around since the 1800’s adn is a great place to grab some food and even have aperitivos post shopping. The food is fresh and made onsite with local ingredients. You can grab breakfast, lunch and even dinner here. Open 09:00-00:00 daily. Map Location
  • Mercato di Sant’Ambrogio – Where the Locals Go. Located on the edge of the ‘tourist’ Florence and the local ‘Firenze’ meeting line, this market has been around since 1873. It authentic and very local. The produce is incredible. It is partially outdoors with some stalls indoors and great spot to pickk up cheeses, fruit and vegetable as well as oils and balsamic vinegars. Pricces are really reasonable too. Open Monday – Saturday 07:00-14:00. Map Location
  • Mercati Agricoli – Truly Local. These are essentially farmers markets which do not have a set spot but move around regularly. Here are some locations and times: Parterre, next to Piazza della Liberta every Friday from 08:00-14:00.  Via Maddalena, in the garden park, every Thursday from 8:00-14:00.Piazza Poggi or Piazza Tasso, Fridays from 15:00-20:00 and In Parco delle Cascine, the Mercato Campagna Amica takes place Saturday mornings 
  • Mercato delle Cascine – For The Best Deals in the City. Locals class this as one of the largest and most afforable markets in Florence. It sells all the sual fruit, vegetables, meats and cheeses but also certain household items. It is located further down the Arno in a green space called, Cascine. It’s open on Tuesday mornings only and is the Florence’s best kept secret. Map Location
A market trader gentleman with loose fruit and vegetables in front of him as well as weighing scales at Mercato di Sant’Ambrogio in Florecne.

Vegetarian-Friendly Food in Florence FAQS

Where Do Locals Eat in Florence?

We all want to dine like locals, and here’s your chance in Florence with these restaurants where locals also dine:
Trattoria la Casalinga – Home style Tuscan food where locals hang out in abundance. Santo Spirito and offers lunch and dinner all week (except on Sundays). ‘Linga translates to housewife’ Map Location
Trattoria Vittoria – great vegetarian pizza and seafood dishes in humble decor, Map Location
l’Ortone – Classic dishes with a slight modern twist with great prices. Map Location.

Do we need to make reservations?

We’s always recommend making reservations at restaurants especially at dinner to avoid disappointment.

Are Vegans catered for at restaurants in Florence?

Yes, many restaurants now have vegan options. But just to be on the safe side we’d suggest mentioning this at the time of reserving a table so the restaurant can ensure that the chef is aware and can make modifications just incase they have a set menu for th night.

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Bejal

Hello, I'm Bejal, an ex-scientist turned travel writer, content creator, and founder of Be-lavie. With 25+ years of global responsible travel experience, including an around-the-world trip, I create mindful itineraries focused on sustainable luxury, slow travel, vegetarian food experiences, unique stays, and lesser-visited destinations that support local communities and their cultures.

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