After immersing yourself in the breathtaking art of the Uffizi Gallery in Florence, Italy, the next masterpiece you deserve is a delightful meal. Navigating tourist hotspots can sometimes lead to underwhelming food experiences, but fear not! Just steps away from the Uffizi, a treasure trove of delicious dining options awaits. Whether you’re searching for a quick breakfast, a satisfying lunch, an elegant dinner, or the perfect gelato, this guide will help you discover the best places to eat near the Uffizi Gallery, answering your craving for “Where Is There To Eat Near Me” in Florence.
Before diving into the culinary landscape, remember a few tips to enhance your Uffizi visit. Investing in a knowledgeable tour guide can truly unlock the gallery’s wonders, transforming your experience from simply observing art to deeply understanding it. Also, consider extending your stay in Florence beyond just a couple of days. While the Uffizi and Accademia are must-sees, Florence offers so much more, including the stunning Tuscan countryside just a short trip away. And, of course, ensure you eat well throughout your Florentine adventure.
Breakfast Delights Near the Uffizi
Embrace the Italian way of starting the day: with simplicity and quality. Forget heavy, elaborate breakfasts. In Italy, breakfast is typically a quick and pleasurable affair – an espresso or cappuccino paired with a delectable baked treat. While pastries like brioche or cornetto are popular, prioritize places that offer freshly made, high-quality options, steering clear of mass-produced, reheated pastries.
Fried rice balls, a unique breakfast option in Florence
If a simple pastry isn’t enough, consider a Tuscan specialty: budino di riso, a creamy rice pudding encased in a delicate pastry shell. Sfoglia, an intensely buttery and flaky puff pastry, sometimes filled with custard, is another tempting choice.
For a classic and centrally located option, Rivoire, situated right on Piazza della Signoria, offers reliable coffee and pastries. While options directly surrounding the Uffizi may be limited in quality, Rivoire stands out. Cantinetta dei Verrazzano (Via dei Tavolini, 18/20-r), a short walk from Piazza della Signoria, provides excellent pastries, breads, and cakes, complemented by caffe Piansa, a local roaster. While Ditta Artigianale on Via de’ Neri is known for its exceptional coffee and decent pastries, it leans towards a more international breakfast style, which might detract from a truly traditional Italian experience.
Lunch and Dinner Restaurants Just Steps from the Uffizi
When hunger strikes after your Uffizi visit, you’re in luck. The area around Piazza della Signoria and Via de’ Neri is brimming with fantastic lunch and dinner options, ranging from casual eateries to more refined restaurants.
Vini e Vecchi Sapori (Via dei Magazzini, 3) is a beloved, family-run osteria perfect for both lunch and dinner. With a handwritten menu and a focus on simple, local dishes, it offers an authentic Florentine dining experience at a reasonable price. They don’t serve steak, but their consistently high quality and charming atmosphere make it a popular choice.
For a truly local and budget-friendly lunch, Il Cernacchino (Via della Condotta, 38r) is a must-try. This “hole-in-the-wall” run by two cheerful Tuscan sisters serves up rustic, hearty comfort food. Don’t expect fancy presentation, but prepare for incredibly authentic flavors in dishes like rib-sticking soups, grain salads, tripe, lampredotto, and satisfying beef brisket paninos.
A plate of gnocchi pasta, a classic Italian dish often found in Florence
For a memorable dinner, Il Buco del Orafo (Via dei Girolami, 28) is an underground restaurant in a former goldsmith shop that exudes old-world charm and serves exceptional Florentine and Tuscan cuisine. Known for its grilled meats, polpette meatballs, and divine pastas, everything on the menu is a delicious choice.
If you’re seeking a Michelin-starred experience, L’Ora di Aria (Via dei Georgofili, 11), led by acclaimed chef Marco Stabile, is a short distance from the Uffizi. With a focus on high-quality ingredients and traditional techniques, it offers a sophisticated dining experience for a special occasion. Their lunch tasting menu provides an accessible way to sample Michelin-level cuisine. Reservations are essential.
For pizza lovers, Mangia Pizza (Via Lambertesca 24/26r) presents a unique concept. They specialize in Tuscan ciabatta flatbread pizzas, offering both customizable and gourmet pre-designed options.
Alimentari Uffizi (Via Lambertesca, 10) is a charming deli run by Alessandro, continuing his family’s tradition of alimentari shops in Florence. It’s ideal for a casual lunch of sandwiches, meat and cheese platters, and local wine. Alessandro prioritizes quality, sourcing ingredients like Cinta Senese salumi, olive oil and cured meats from his son’s farm, and artisanal cheeses.
Gelato to Complete Your Uffizi Experience
No visit to Italy is complete without indulging in gelato. Luckily, excellent gelato is readily available near the Uffizi.
Perche’ No (Via dei Tavolini, 19R), conveniently located in the center, is a top choice for quality gelato. They avoid artificial ingredients and excessive sugar, offering refreshing milk-free options and unique flavors like Tuscan lavender and matcha green tea.
Lavender and pistachio gelato, two unique and delicious flavors in Florence
Carapina (Via Lambertesca, 18/R), even closer to the Uffizi, is another artisan gelateria known for its seasonal and Florentine-style gelato. Their menu highlights fruits currently in season, ensuring fresh and flavorful choices.
With this guide in hand, your search for “where is there to eat near me” after visiting the Uffizi Gallery will be a delicious success. Florence’s culinary scene is rich and diverse, offering something to satisfy every taste and craving, just moments away from its artistic treasures. Explore, indulge, and enjoy the flavors of Florence!
