Must-try Dishes
Pasta al Pomodoro - Tomato Pasta - Fresh pasta tossed in a simple sauce made of ripe tomatoes, garlic, and basil. Locals usually enjoy this dish as a light lunch, often accompanied by a side of bread for dipping.
Cecina - Chickpea Flatbread - A thin, savory pancake made from chickpea flour, olive oil, and salt, cooked in a hot oven. You’ll often find it being sold by street vendors, perfect for a quick bite while wandering around Piazza dei Miracoli (and it’s gluten-free!).
Ribollita - Tuscan Vegetable Soup - A hearty soup made with leftover bread, cannellini beans, and seasonal vegetables like kale and carrots, all simmered together. This dish is a popular dinner choice during the colder months, often enjoyed with a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil.
Porcini Funghi - Porcini Mushrooms - Sautéed or roasted, these earthy mushrooms are a local delicacy, often tossed with pasta or served with polenta. Eaten during harvest season, they’re a favorite at family gatherings, reflecting the region's rich foraging traditions.
Pici Cacio e Pepe - Hand-rolled Pasta with Cheese and Pepper - Thick, hand-rolled pasta coated with a creamy mixture of Pecorino Romano cheese and black pepper. Despite its simplicity, it’s a staple in local trattorias, usually served as a satisfying lunch, but best enjoyed fresh from the kitchen.
Panforte - Spiced Fruit Cake - While often seen as a dessert, this dense cake is packed with nuts and dried fruits, giving it a surprising savory quality. Locals enjoy it with strong coffee as a breakfast treat during festive seasons, particularly around Christmas.
Fritto Misto - Mixed Fried Seafood - A colorful blend of squid, shrimp, and small fish, lightly battered and fried until golden. Best at seaside eateries during summer, this dish is often served as a casual lunch, bringing the taste of the coast straight to your plate.
Tortelli con Patate - Potato-Stuffed Pasta - Stuffed pasta filled with seasoned potatoes and often topped with a rich meat sauce. This dish is a comforting winter classic and showcases regional flavors, best enjoyed during family feasts.
Desserts & Drinks
Caffè - Caffè (espresso) - A rich, strong shot of coffee made from finely ground coffee beans, served hot in a small cup. Locals typically enjoy it standing at the counter throughout the day, savoring it in just a few moments (but take your time – it’s fun to people-watch!).
Spritz - Spritz (aperitivo cocktail) - A refreshing mix of Prosecco, Aperol (or Campari), and soda water, served over ice with a slice of orange. This vibrant drink is a go-to for locals in the late afternoon as they unwind after work; don’t be surprised if you join a bustling crowd at a piazza!
Granita al Limone - Granita di Limone (lemon slush) - A frozen dessert made from water, sugar, and fresh lemons, creating a slushy texture that's both tangy and sweet. Best enjoyed in the hot summer months, it’s a local favorite for a cool pick-me-up while lounging by the Arno River.
Castagnaccio - Castagnaccio (chestnut cake) - This rustic cake is made primarily from chestnut flour, water, and olive oil, often enhanced with rosemary and pine nuts for added flavor. Locals indulge in it during autumn festivals, relishing its earthy taste and chewy texture, and it pairs perfectly with a glass of red wine.
Rococo - Rococò (spiced cookies) - These rich, aromatic cookies are crafted with almonds, cinnamon, and dark chocolate, bringing a unique taste that's popular during the Christmas season. Perfect with a coffee or a glass of Vin Santo, locals serve them at festive gatherings that are filled with laughter and sweetness.
By the way, if you’re out late, don’t miss the chance to grab a Caffè while the city settles into evening!
