Top Rated Restaurants & Cafes in Florence

In the pedestrian area behind the Uffizi Gallery, this small wine bar is the ideal spot for a snack with a glass of wine, an inexpensive lunch or an aperitif. It serves a huge range of crostini, sandwiches, a selection of cheeses (especially fresh and matured Pecorino), cold cuts and also roasted pig directly from the rotisserie across the street run by the same owner. All'Antico Vinaio has only a few seats inside so there is always a mixed crowd of tourists and locals eating standing up on the street in front of it. All credits cards accepted...if you pay the bill at the rotisserie across the street.

Silvana Vivoli inherited the family business from her grandfather, Raffaello, who opened up shop on this narrow street in 1930. Every day, with her brother-in-law and two kitchen aides, she makes from scratch the creamy gelato for which her small store is famous. Though the most popular flavors are chocolate, vanilla, and strawberry, the rich chocolate hazelnut (nocciola) and the rice (riso) flavors are worth at least a taste. Silvana recommends combining at least two to four flavors in a single cup, which you can devour while people watching from the steps nearby Santa Croce.

Located within the Four Seasons Hotel Firenze, Il Palagio traps the true essence of the historic city of Florence. Experience traditional Italian fare and exceptional wines in an extravagant setting, complete with a vibrant patio dining area. Rated one star by the restaurant bible Michelin, this elegant eatery is led by chef Vito Mollica. The award-winning chef and his skilled team proffer classic delights made with locally-grown ingredients. Apart from an extensive food menu, Il Palagio also impresses with its amazing wine list, comprising 400 fine labels. Book a table at this stylish restaurant and look forward to a remarkable meal in one of the oldest cities of the world.

Tucked away in the heart of the historic district of Santa Croce, this beautifully kept restaurant's old-fashioned charm and flair for authentic local cuisine have made it a popular haunt of the rich and famous. Don't come here looking for basic dishes and ordinary meats: expect exotic cuts of various types of local wild game. Given a light new touch, revamped traditional fare features on its inspirational menu of starters, main courses and desserts. Great wine list too. If you're looking to save a bit, go around the corner to their trattoria Il Cibreino. The secret? Same menu, same kitchen, lower prices - it's just knowing which door to go through. Also within the same block are their Caffè and shop, and their Dinner Theater. You're guaranteed a good time in this neighborhood if you venture over here for lunch or dinner.

Enoteca Pinchiorri is a distinguished restaurant among Florence’s thriving culinary scene. Combining luxury and haute cuisine at its best, this decadent restaurant also boasts of three Michelin stars. Housed in a renaissance palazzo, the restaurant is set in a historic room, exuding a museum-like charm. Complementing the grandeur of the interiors, the meals served here reflect simplicity and minimalism, replete with the use of seasonal produce. Diners can relish local flavors in unmissable dishes such as braised sardines and crispy pork. Pair these dishes with fine wines from sommelier Giorgio Pinchiorri’s impressive collection and you are sure to experience one of the most memorable meals of your life.

When you enter Caffè Gilli, it is worthwhile to ponder over the fact that you are surrounded by a two hundred year old legacy and all of it is still preserved. The recipes used to make the delicious coffees and unique confectioneries have hardly changed, but they have only adapted to the modern scenario over time. The cafe has a Victorian charm with wooden flooring and Murano glass chandeliers that define its interior. A look at the display section will leave you mesmerized as the assortment of desserts will spoil you with choices. From creamy pastries, Tiramisu, cakes to pies and more, everything here will make your palate sing.