Florence and street food are a perfect match, and just listing these must-visit addresses has made me hungry. Let’s not waste time—grab a pen and paper because these are the best foods and places to enjoy Florence’s street food!
Coccoli at Friggitoria al Cartoccio
Located at Via dei Cerchi 23, Friggitoria al Cartoccio is the go-to spot for trying the delightful Tuscan specialty known as Coccoli. These deep-fried dough balls are a popular Florentine street food, perfect for a savory snack on the go.
Coccoli are typically served warm and are often accompanied by stracchino cheese and prosciutto, making a perfect combination of crispy and creamy textures. Whether you’re strolling through Florence’s streets or taking a quick break from sightseeing, don’t miss out on this delicious treat.
Lampredotto Sandwich at Trippaio del Porcellino
If you’re looking for the true taste of Florence, you must try lampredotto, the city’s original street food. The tripe makers at Trippaio del Porcellino, located in Piazza del Mercato Nuovo, have been serving delicious sandwiches for over 100 years. This iconic cart is right behind the famous Il Porcellino statue.
The Panino al lampredotto completo is a must-try, featuring tender tripe with spicy pepper sauce and a refreshing green sauce to pair it with a cup of red wine or a beer.
Slice Pizza at Gustarium
Located just steps from Piazza della Signoria at Via Dei Cimatori 24R, Gustarium offers a unique way to enjoy pizza by weight, or pizza al taglio (slice pizza). This method is ideal for a quick, customizable meal, allowing you to sample multiple toppings at once.
Gustarium is celebrated for its quality and variety, making it a prime spot for authentic pizza al taglio. Try a few different slices to start—you’re likely to find yourself returning for another taste!
Porchetta Sandwich at Antica Porchetteria Granieri 1916
For a true taste of Tuscan cuisine, you can’t miss the whole-roasted porchetta at Antica Porchetteria Granieri 1916. Located at Via Porta Rossa 27, just a block and a half from Ponte Vecchio, this shop has been serving delicious porchetta sandwiches for generations.
Porchetta is seasoned with a variety of spices, so it’s best to try it plain the first time to appreciate the traditional flavors. It can be a bit dry, so be sure to get a drink to wash it down. Once you’ve tried the classic, you can add sauces and cheese to customize your sandwich.
Cannoli at Arà: è Sicilia
Continuing our culinary journey through Florence, make a stop at Arà: è Sicilia, located at Via degli Alfani 127. This charming venue is renowned for its authentic Sicilian flavors, serving cannoli that transport you straight to Sicily with every bite.
At Arà, each cannolo offers a delicate crunch of the shell paired with a smooth, sweet filling, striking the perfect balance of texture and flavor. It’s a memorable destination for anyone with a sweet tooth, ensuring a taste of Sicily right in the heart of Florence.
Panini at Panini Toscani
Florence offers many panini spots, but Panini Toscani at Piazza del Duomo 34R is a standout. Conveniently located right behind the Duomo, this shop usually has a short wait time. A unique perk is their tasting of the day’s cured meats and cheeses before you make your selection—who can resist trying before buying?
You can fully customize your panino with a variety of breads, meats, cheeses, vegetables, and spreads. For a typical Tuscan flavor, go for the combo of salty prosciutto, creamy pecorino cheese, peppery arugula, and their special spicy pepper spread.
Fresh Pasta at FN Pastafresca
Located in the heart of Florence’s Mercato Centrale at Piazza del Mercato Centrale, FN Pastafresca has been a local favorite since 1989.
FN Pastafresca offers a unique experience where visitors can watch fresh pasta being made in their glass-fronted workshop, a perfect dining spot where you can enjoy the freshly made pasta right in the bustling market atmosphere.
Salami Sandwiches at Pino’s Sandwiches – Salumeria Verdi
Pino’s Sandwiches, located at Via Giuseppe Verdi 36R, is a favorite among study abroad students in Florence. It’s easy to see why, with its extensive menu and large, affordable panini.
Every sandwich at Pino’s starts with a generous square of schiacciata, a flat Tuscan bread similar to a sturdier focaccia. Fan favorites include the “Emily” sandwich and “La Bandiera” (“The Flag”), which boasts a colorful cross-section of ingredients from all over Italy, such as Milanese salami and Calabrian ‘nduja.
Gelato at Vivoli
Tucked away at Via Isola delle Stinche 7r in Florence, Vivoli is the city’s oldest gelateria and a must-visit for anyone seeking a taste of traditional Florentine gelato. It’s the perfect spot to cool off with a creamy treat while exploring the bustling streets of Florence.
Vivoli was founded in 1929 by Serafino Vivoli as a dairy, but it quickly made a name for itself with its naturally sourced gelato from Vallombrosa. Beyond just gelato, Vivoli has evolved to include an artisanal pastry shop, continuing its legacy as a beacon of quality and tradition amidst Florence’s vibrant street food scene.
Stuffed Schiacciata at La Schiacciateria De’ Neri
At La Schiacciateria De’ Neri, located at Via dei Neri, 18r in downtown Florence, Rocco brings together his Neapolitan pizza roots and Florentine flavors to master the art of schiacciata. His standout creation, the Schiacciata Deliziosa, features a fusion of Cinta Senese porchetta, Campanian mozzarella, and Neapolitan friarielli, making it a must-try for any visitor.
Don’t miss this delightful blend of Tuscan and Neapolitan traditions, where each bite delivers a taste of both regions’ best.
Bombolone at Cucciolo Bar Pasticceria
Located at Via del Corso 25R in Florence, Cucciolo Bar Pasticceria is renowned for its Tuscan Bombolone—a sugar-dusted, fried doughnut that’s a staple in the local street food scene. This version is delightfully filled with creamy custard, setting it apart with its lush, soft texture.
Traditionally made with mashed potatoes mixed into the dough, the Bombolone is deep-fried to golden perfection and finished with a light sprinkle of sugar. It’s a must-try for a sweet, authentic Tuscan treat.
Stuffed Schiacciata at I Fratellini
Located at Via dei Cimatori 38r, near Piazza della Signoria, I Fratellini has been a staple since 1875 for those seeking an authentic Florentine panino paired with a glass of wine.
With ingredients sourced from small Tuscan producers, choose from 15 different sandwiches on schiacciata or pane all’olio. Favorites include the prosciutto, goat cheese, and rocket salad or the Tuscan salami with fennel and cream cheese. Each visit promises flavorful returns.
