Florence, the cradle of the Renaissance, is not only a feast for the eyes but also a paradise for food and drink lovers. Among its many culinary rituals, the Italian happy hour, known as aperitivo, stands out as a beloved tradition. For those searching for the best Food Drinks Near Me in Florence, look no further. This guide, crafted by a Florence-based food expert, unveils the secrets to experiencing aperitivo like a local, leading you to authentic spots beyond the typical tourist traps.
Aperitivo is more than just happy hour; it’s a cultural immersion. It’s the art of savoring appetite-stimulating drinks and delectable snacks before dinner. Think of it as the perfect bridge between a busy day of sightseeing and a satisfying Italian dinner. Unlike some interpretations that have morphed into buffet-style “apericena,” the true essence of aperitivo lies in quality over quantity, in stimulating the palate rather than stunning it.
This guide focuses on establishments cherished by Florentines, places where quality ingredients and authentic experiences are paramount. Forget watered-down drinks and stale buffet leftovers. Here, you’ll discover where to find expertly crafted cocktails, fine wines, and delicious small bites that truly represent the spirit of aperitivo. Whether you are a seasoned traveler or a first-time visitor, this curated list will help you navigate the Florentine aperitivo scene and find the perfect food drinks near me to elevate your evening.
Exploring Florence’s Aperitivo Scene by Neighborhood
To help you easily find food drinks near me, this guide is organized by neighborhood. Florence’s districts each possess a unique charm, and their aperitivo offerings are no exception. From the bustling streets of Santa Croce to the panoramic views of Piazzale Michelangelo, each area promises a distinct aperitivo experience.
Santa Croce & Sant’Ambrogio: Local Haunts and Hidden Gems
This vibrant area, known for the Basilica di Santa Croce and the Sant’Ambrogio Market, offers a mix of traditional and trendy aperitivo spots. If you are wandering through these historic streets searching for food drinks near me, consider these options:
Caffe’ Sant’Ambrogio: A classic Florentine institution, Caffe’ Sant’Ambrogio is where locals gather for quality drinks in a relaxed setting. While they offer simple snacks like chips and peanuts, their strength lies in their impressive wine list, including a notable selection of Champagne and expertly made Martinis. The atmosphere is authentically Florentine, and while the interior is dimly lit, outdoor seating is available. Remember to bring mosquito repellent during summer evenings.
Il Locale: For a more upscale experience, Il Locale is a stunning choice. Housed in a former Medici palace, this bar and restaurant exudes big-city sophistication. Their cocktail menu is adventurous and innovative, and during aperitivo, they serve elegant snack towers that are as visually appealing as they are delicious. Il Locale is perfect for those seeking a refined food and drinks near me experience in a historical setting.
Rex Cafe: Rex Cafe offers a funky, vintage vibe with an eclectic selection of craft cocktails, DJ sets, and occasional live music. The bar snacks, particularly the butter and anchovy mini-toasts, are a delightful complement to their drinks. Its unique atmosphere makes Rex a memorable spot to find food drinks near me with a bit of personality.
Quelo: Catering to health-conscious and alternative diets, Quelo is an artsy option with a focus on vegan and vegetarian choices. They specialize in raw pressed juice cocktails, offering a refreshing and guilt-free aperitivo experience. If you’re looking for healthy food drinks near me and enjoy customized drinks, Quelo is worth a visit.
Fermino: Fermino provides a reliably enjoyable aperitivo with decent wines by the glass, well-made Negronis, and tasty crostini bites priced per slice. Its prime location and artsy ambiance, popular with locals, make it a solid choice when searching for food drinks near me in Sant’Ambrogio.
San Niccolo’/Piazzale Michelangelo: Views and Vino
Venture towards the Oltrarno district and Piazzale Michelangelo for breathtaking views of Florence and some excellent wine-focused aperitivo options. If you’re near Piazzale Michelangelo and searching for food drinks near me with a view, consider:
Fuoriporta Enoteca: This wine bar and restaurant is open all day, offering a continuous flow of excellent wines and food. Fuoriporta boasts a thoughtful wine selection, and if they offer sparkling Durello, opt for it over Prosecco for a delightful change. Pair your wine with one of their generous crostone for a satisfying aperitivo. Its location near Piazzale Michelangelo makes it a perfect spot to enjoy food drinks near me with stunning scenery.
Via Tornabuoni/Near the Train Station: Elegance and Classics
This area, encompassing the stylish Via Tornabuoni and the vicinity of the train station, offers a mix of classic elegance and convenient locations for aperitivo. If you are near Via Tornabuoni or the train station and looking for food drinks near me, these spots are worth exploring:
Procacci: Famous for its truffle sandwiches and sparkling wine, Procacci is a small, refined shop that delivers big on flavor. Arrive early as it tends to get crowded. It’s a must-visit for truffle lovers seeking a quick and luxurious food and drinks near me experience.
Rivoire: Rivoire holds a special place in cocktail history as one of the original locations where the Negroni was first served. Located in Piazza della Repubblica, it’s essential to order a Negroni here to truly appreciate its heritage. Rivoire offers a classic and historical food drinks near me experience.
Manifattura: This bar is a nostalgic tribute to Italian cocktail culture, using exclusively Italian ingredients. Manifattura features vintage bitters, vermouth, and amari, along with fresh fruit preparations for drinks like Bellini. They offer dry snacks to accompany their drinks, providing an authentic Italian aperitivo experience for those seeking food drinks near me with a focus on local ingredients and traditions.
Enoteca Bellini: Enoteca Bellini is a charming wine bar that feels like a traveler’s lounge. Run by the knowledgeable and welcoming Camilla, this family-run enoteca offers a constantly changing selection of unique wines and delicious snacks. Their butter and anchovy toasts are a must-try. Enoteca Bellini provides a warm and inviting atmosphere to find exceptional food drinks near me.
Santa Cocktail Club: For a touch of sophistication, Santa Cocktail Club, located in Piazza Santa Maria Novella, offers a swanky setting with both bar and patio seating. Order a craft cocktail or wine, and they’ll complement it with thoughtful canapé bites, including gluten-free options. While slightly pricier, it’s perfect for a classy food and drinks near me experience in a historic square.
Near the Duomo: Rustic Charm and Tuscan Flavors
In the heart of Florence, near the iconic Duomo, you can find aperitivo spots that blend rustic charm with authentic Tuscan flavors. If you find yourself near the Duomo searching for food drinks near me, consider:
Fiaschetteria Nuvoli: This rustic wine bar is a local favorite, offering a cozy atmosphere both upstairs in the small bar area and downstairs in the cellar. Fiaschetteria Nuvoli is known for its countless crostini variations (truffle, fegatino, sausage, etc.) and excellent wine selection. It’s a soulful, local spot perfect for a casual and flavorful food drinks near me experience.
Piazza della Signoria and Piazza Della Repubblica: Historical Grandeur
For an aperitivo steeped in history and grandeur, the cafes in Piazza della Signoria and Piazza Della Repubblica are unparalleled. When in these iconic piazzas and searching for food drinks near me, consider the historical cafes:
Rivoire and Gilli: These historical cafes offer a classic aperitivo experience in stunning settings. Enjoy your drinks at the bar to avoid extra charges for table service and soak in the atmosphere of these grand establishments. Rivoire, as mentioned, is a Negroni birthplace, and Gilli boasts Luca Picchi, a renowned bartender. These cafes provide a truly classic and grand food drinks near me experience.
San Lorenzo/Central Market: Trendy and Local
The San Lorenzo neighborhood, home to the bustling Central Market, offers a mix of trendy and local aperitivo options. If you’re exploring the market area and looking for food drinks near me, check out these spots:
PanicAle: A modern and artsy hangout, PanicAle attracts a young crowd with its selection of craft Italian beers on tap and reasonably priced cocktails. It’s a lively and contemporary option for food drinks near me near the Central Market.
Pabo Doble: Replacing the former Sabor Cubano, Pabo Doble is a quality spot specializing in Tiki-style drinks, accompanied by a few dry snacks. For a more substantial bite afterward, Bondi, just down the street, offers delicious stuffed focaccia. Pabo Doble provides a unique and fun food drinks near me experience.
La Casa del Vino: This small wine bar exudes old-world charm with rustic wood details and a superb wine selection. La Casa del Vino also offers small plates and crostini, particularly the crostini Toscani (chicken liver pate toasts). It feels like a step back into a stylish Florence of the 80s, offering a soulful and classic food drinks near me option.
Near the Uffizi & Ponte Vecchio: Venetian Vibes and Fusion Flavors
Close to the Uffizi Gallery and Ponte Vecchio, the aperitivo scene offers a range from Venetian-inspired to fusion cuisine. If you are near these landmarks and searching for food drinks near me, consider these options:
Amble: Amble brings a touch of Venice to Florence with its concept of tramezzini (triangle sandwiches) and spritz. The vintage decor and enjoyable drinks, particularly the Cynar spritz, make it a pleasant spot. Amble is a great choice for a casual and Venetian-inspired food drinks near me experience.
Rivoire (Piazza della Signoria location): Reiterating its excellence, Rivoire’s location in Piazza della Signoria also provides a traditional Italian aperitivo with potato chips, olives, and other salty snacks. It’s a reliable and classic option for food drinks near me.
Fusion Bar at Gallery Art Hotel: For a unique twist, Fusion Bar offers sushi and innovative Negroni variations. It’s one of the few places in Florence experimenting with Nikkei-inspired fusion snacks. While not directly next to the Uffizi, it’s close enough and offers a sophisticated and adventurous food drinks near me experience.
Rooftop Fancy: Aperitivo with a View
For an unforgettable aperitivo experience with panoramic views of Florence, rooftop bars are the way to go. If you desire food drinks near me with stunning views, consider these rooftop options:
Westin Excelsior: The Westin Excelsior boasts arguably the best rooftop view in Florence, combined with sleek service and quality drinks. They also offer an edible buffet for a luxurious hotel aperitivo experience. It’s the ultimate choice for food drinks near me with unparalleled views and luxury.
Il Continentale: Located just in front of Fusion, Il Continentale is a favorite rooftop spot because it combines a sweet view with genuinely good drinks. Unlike some rooftop bars that rely solely on location, Il Continentale prioritizes drink quality. It offers a stylish and view-centric food drinks near me experience.
Hotel Lucchesi (Empireo Bar): Hotel Lucchesi’s rooftop bar, Empireo, provides the second-best views of the city in a more casual and young atmosphere compared to the Westin. Their snack program, in collaboration with modernist restaurant Essenziale, features creative bites like mortadella mini-pizzas. They also offer non-alcoholic options, making it a versatile choice for food drinks near me with excellent views and a relaxed vibe.
Ponte Vecchio/Oltrarno/Pitti: Wine Bars and Local Flavors
Crossing the Ponte Vecchio into the Oltrarno and Pitti Palace area reveals a treasure trove of wine bars and authentic Florentine flavors. If you’re exploring this district and searching for food drinks near me, explore these gems:
Le Volpi e L’Uva: This charming wine bar is known for its perfect finger food snacks, such as melted crostini and tiny truffle panini, along with a curated selection of wines by the glass. Le Volpi e L’Uva offers a delightful and authentic food drinks near me experience in a cozy setting.
Il Santino: Il Santino specializes in natural wines and wines from small producers, accompanied by complimentary snacks. For a more substantial aperitivo, indulge in a bottle of sparkling wine and a mozzarella and anchovy crostino. Their farmstead cheeses and meats are also exceptional. Arrive early as it’s a small and popular spot, perfect for a genuine and quality-focused food drinks near me experience.
Pitti Gola Cantina: Located directly in Piazza de’ Pitti, facing Palazzo Pitti, this wine bar is for serious food and wine enthusiasts. Pitti Gola Cantina offers sophisticated snacks like pate glazed with vin santo reduction and tasting flights from their extensive wine library. It’s a refined and flavorful option for food drinks near me in a stunning piazza.
Sprituum Spirits Club: For cocktail lovers seeking a break from wine, Sprituum Spirits Club is a humble nook serving excellent martinis and classic vintage cocktails. They offer small aperitivo platters from their adjacent restaurant. Sprituum is a great choice for cocktail-centric food drinks near me.
Mad Souls & Spirits: This unpretentious bar offers a relaxed, sports bar-like atmosphere (without TVs) and serves everything but Aperol Spritz. Mad Souls & Spirits provides a simple aperitivo platter with crudités, olives, chips, and tramezzini. It’s a sensible option for a pre-dinner drink in a low-key setting, perfect if you are looking for uncomplicated food drinks near me.
Kawaii: Described as a cocktail and sake bar, Kawaii features Japanese-inspired bar snacks and an impressive selection of small-batch spirits. Snacks include sashimi and mini ramen bowls. Kawaii is a unique and trendy spot for late-night food drinks near me with an international twist.
Off the Beaten Track: Local Gems Worth the Trip
For those willing to venture slightly outside the city center, some hidden gems offer authentic and less touristy aperitivo experiences. If you are looking to explore beyond the typical tourist areas for food drinks near me, consider these options (note that these may require a taxi, bus, or longer walk):
L’Gottino: Located in the Piazza Beccaria area, L’Gottino is a small wine bar offering select wines by the glass, tiny sandwiches, and meat/cheese platters for aperitivo. It’s a local spot, just a short walk from Santa Croce, providing a glimpse into a less-touristed part of Florence, ideal for finding food drinks near me in a local setting.
Serafini: Serafini offers a recommended aperitivo buffet, particularly known for its pastry goods, mini-pizza bites, and vegetable options. They also make decent spritzes (opt for Campari or Cynar over Aperol) and have a surprisingly good wine selection. Serafini is also a popular coffee spot during the day, offering a versatile local experience for food drinks near me.
Pane Amore e Fantasia: This spot is a food lover’s dream, though located off the beaten path. Pane Amore e Fantasia features an array of snacks, heritage meats, cheeses, and an excellent wine selection, especially sparkling wines. Lorenzo Vulashi, the owner, is known for his knowledge and hospitality. This bakery and wine shop offers a truly special and off-the-beaten-path food drinks near me experience.
Dogana: Dogana boasts a case full of gourmet crostini and respectable fish snacks. It’s a tiny place, so arrive early and stick to sparkling wine for aperitivo. Dogana offers a unique and flavorful food drinks near me option in a less central location.
Cafe Dogali: A local cafe with simple, old-school Italian cocktails and decent wines by the glass. Cafe Dogali offers an “apericena” style experience, serving rounds of aperitivo foods, including fried coccoli and cheeses and meats. It’s a local and generous option for food drinks near me.
Gastronomia Galanti: This gastronomy deli is run by the family of Italy’s awarded best sommelier. Enjoy wines selected by a top sommelier along with in-house made foods. Gastronomia Galanti provides a high-quality and gourmet food drinks near me experience, slightly removed from the main tourist crowds.
Discover Your Perfect Aperitivo Experience
Florence’s aperitivo scene is rich and diverse, offering something for every taste and occasion. Whether you are looking for a luxurious rooftop experience, a classic historical cafe, or a local wine bar, this guide is designed to help you find the best food drinks near me. Explore these recommendations, venture into different neighborhoods, and immerse yourself in the delightful ritual of Italian aperitivo. Buon aperitivo!
For further exploration of Florence’s aperitivo culture and cocktail scene, consider these resources:
- Aperitivo in Florence – a round up
- Aperitivo Time in Florence – basics and tips
- Why Aperitivo Still Matters
- Ideas for Aperitivo foods to make at home
- Where to get cocktails in Florence via Eater.com
- Florence’s Cocktail Renaissance via Eater.com
- Aperitivo Tour in Florence with Curious Appetite
