Food guide to Florence
Lunch:
- All'Antico Vinaio : Hello Heaven. You will know you have arrived at this panini shop when you see the lines on either side, don't be worried they are both the same sandwiches. What I order when I go: prosciutto, truffle spread, arugula, pecorino cheese spread (must), tomato spread, and fresh tomatoes. That is my recipe for the most delicious sandwich ever. No matter the combination of ingredients I have never had a sandwich that is less then perfect! Helpful hint: If the sandwich looks too daunting (which trust me it's hard to finish) ask for the half sandwich which will run you €3.50 instead of the €5 the large one costs!
- Pane & Toscana : Going with the sandwich theme this is another amazing sandwich shop, and much less traveled by the hoards of tourists. Again another trusty punch card place (I may or may not of gotten some free sandwiches during my stay :) and I love their seasonal menu! Some of my favorites were the brie and jam sandwiches, or the pear, arugula, jam and brie. Everything here can be customized and the couple working the shop loves when they see familiar faces! Again here they have the full or half option- I usually went for the full size!
- Salumeria Verdi : More commonly known as Pino's sandwiches. Usually you will get the owner Pino personally making your panini- he is exactly what you would expect when you think Italian! Super friendly and a great stop for a sandwich or some of their ready to eat pastas!
- The Oil Shoppe : Promise this is my last sandwich shop! Much different from the others I mentioned above but equally delicious! And if you are trying to take a little break from carbs they have eat in or take away salads which are hard to come by in a carbalicious city like Florence.
- Gusta Pizza : This is the grandaddy of all lunches/ dinners. A trip to Florence is not complete without at least 1, 2, or 10 pizzas from Gusta. This pizzeria is right off of Santo Spirito and often times is quite crowded, so don't be worried if you have to carry out. Go sit on the steps and take in one of the most glorious, delicious, fresh Italian pizzas you might ever eat!!! If you ask nicely they can even put your pizza in the shape of a heart. Helpful Hint: If you are a first timer can't go wrong with the traditional Margherita Pizza, the Gusta Pizza is delicious as well and if your with friends and feel like splitting and sharing the Caprese is a lighter pizza option.
- Mercato Centrale : On the second floor of Mercato Centrale is a modern food court idea. It ranges in the types of food, but from personal experience I recommend the fresh mozzarella balls they go around selling, the pizza, the pasta they make on the spot, as well as the crostini's they top with an array of fresh ingredients. Everything is superb and the ambience will make you want to stay for hours! Helpful Hint: Check the hours because they close and reopen for dinner.