Best Local & Traditional Foods to Try in Florence
Discover the 6 best local and traditional foods to try in Florence. Get AI-powered recommendations for authentic dishes, traditional cuisine, and the best restaurants.
Bistecca alla Fiorentina
This iconic Florentine steak is a must-try for meat lovers. It's a thick cut of Chianina beef, grilled to perfection and typically served rare, showcasing the quality of local ingredients.
Ingredients
Best Time
dinner
Cultural Significance
A symbol of Tuscan cuisine, this dish is often enjoyed during special occasions and gatherings.
Where to try it
Pici Cacio e Pepe
A simple yet delightful dish made of thick, hand-rolled pasta served with a creamy sauce of Pecorino Romano cheese and black pepper. It's comfort food at its best, deeply rooted in local traditions.
Ingredients
Best Time
lunch or dinner
Cultural Significance
Pici is a traditional Tuscan pasta that reflects the region's rustic culinary heritage.
Where to try it
Ribollita
This hearty Tuscan soup is made of leftover bread, cannellini beans, and seasonal vegetables like kale and carrots. It's cooked slowly to enhance the flavors and is perfect for colder days.
Ingredients
Best Time
lunch
Cultural Significance
Ribollita embodies the Tuscan philosophy of using simple ingredients and minimizing waste.
Where to try it
Torta della Nonna
This traditional custard tart is filled with a rich pastry cream and topped with pine nuts and powdered sugar. It's a beloved dessert that showcases the sweetness of Tuscan baking.
Ingredients
Best Time
dessert
Cultural Significance
Torta della Nonna is often served during family gatherings and is a staple of local pastry shops.
Where to try it
Cantucci
These crunchy almond cookies are traditionally enjoyed with a glass of Vin Santo, a sweet dessert wine. Their rich flavor and texture make them the perfect snack or after-meal treat.
Ingredients
Best Time
snack or dessert
Cultural Significance
Cantucci are a classic Tuscan treat, often associated with festive occasions and family gatherings.
Where to try it
Vin Santo
This traditional Tuscan dessert wine is made from dried grapes and has a rich, sweet flavor. It's often paired with cantucci for a delightful end to a meal.
Ingredients
Best Time
after dinner
Cultural Significance
Vin Santo is deeply intertwined with Tuscan culture, enjoyed in celebrations and family meals.