Where to Eat: A Basic Food Service Guide to Florence

By Arthur Kozlovski (Florence University of the Arts)

We all know that Italy is known for its rich food and culture, but when arriving, the amount of options may be overwhelming. This is partly due to the specializations of each type of food service that is provided, especially here in Florence. Newcomers will notice that there are many food shops, all bearing various labels, such as ristorante, trattoria, osteria, etc. Although each may provide food, the type of food and environment greatly varies depending on the name of the business. Here is a concise list of the basic places where one may find certain foods and environments in Florence:

Ristorante – The most formal of places to eat in Italy, offering “full service” and an array of foods, both nationally and internationally. Full meals are provided (servings of antipasti, primi, secondi, and dolci), but usually at a higher expense. Most are found in the center of Florence, catering to the tourists that visit.

Trattoria – is a local mom and pop tavern that serves traditional food. The recipes are usually derived from the family’s own customs, and the atmosphere is less formal than a ristorante. The cost of food is significantly cheaper than a ristorante. This is the place to go if one is looking for a traditional meal made by the locals.

Osteria – A simpler and a less formal version of a trattoria, osterias serve simple food options, as well as offer a selection of wine. Osterias vary significantly in food and wine, décor and atmosphere, but they usually offer the cheapest lunches, for they are light meals.

Rosticceria – As the name implies, these places offer meats and vegetables that are roasted and served all day. People often come here to order take-out, bringing the food home to enjoy with their families.

Caffè – These little “Cafeterias” offer a handful of sandwiches and breakfast foods, usually accompanied by a sitting area. You can enjoy your snack in the caffé or on the go. Italians often frequent these places throughout the day, coming in and out for small snacks and beverages during the work day.

Bar – Smaller versions of caffes, bars offer coffee and breakfast foods. Usually tiny, these little shops are filled with locals who need their caffeine and snack fix throughout the day. Stop by here if you are in a hurry, the service is fast and the prices are cheap. Note: They usually do not serve alcohol (as opposed to bars in America).

Pasticceria – These are shops that deal with baked goods, offering an array of different sweets. Here you can find cakes, donuts, and other local baked goods. Pasticcerias are usually small, but cozy, offering a seating section to those who want to relax and indulge.

Getting yourself familiar with these places can definitely help you decide where to have your next meal. Whether it is a nice sit-down traditional dinner you are looking for, or a snack on the go, basic knowledge of food service providers in Florence will surely be of importance in a city known for its rich food culture.