If you’re planning an Italian getaway, you’re likely getting very excited for your adventure. This city is full of fun and exciting activities and attractions, but its food might be most notable. One of the best parts about a trip to any Italian city is getting to taste all of the delicious local foods. When in Florence, you want to make sure that you taste the best foods so that you really get a feel for the local area’s specialities. Here are the top 8 must-try Italian dishes and drinks in Florence:
Zuppa di Fagioli
Zuppa di Fagioli is a delicious white bean soup. This hearty dish is typically enjoyed during the colder weather. It’s full of vegetables, pasta and beans. This soup was traditionally considered a poor man’s dish as it’s made with inexpensive ingredients. Today, it’s enjoyed all over Italy, but especially in the Tuscan region.
Cantucci
Cantucci, also referred to as biscotti, are almond biscuits that are especially popular in the Prato and Florence areas of Italy. These simple creations are twice-baked. While you may be used to dipping them in coffee, the Italians actually dip them in Vin Santo, a sweet dessert wine.
Schiacciata
Schiacciata is a classic Tuscan flatbread found throughout Florence and its name means “squished.” Most Tuscan-inspired schiacciata features only olive oil and salt, for a simple but delicious taste. Many Italians enjoy snacking on this plain or alongside cold cuts!
Bistecca alla Fiorentina
When considering the best dishes and drinks in Florence, you also need to try the popular entree, Bistecca alla Fiorentina.
This T-bone cut steak is delicious and flavourful. Prepare to enjoy a thick piece of meat that has been cooked over a wood fire. You should know that it’s huge—so come hungry!
Meat and Cheese Plate
It’s common to enjoy plates of meat and cheeses while in Florence! A popular cheese of choice is pecorino, which is a hard cheese made from whole sheep’s milk. Popular meats include Prosciutto del Casentino, an aged ham, and pancetta, peppered bacon made from pork belly. Go ahead and pour yourself a glass of wine as you enjoy a mix of meat and cheeses!
Gelato
If you have a bit of a sweet tooth, you’re going to love the gelato in Florence. This Italian ice cream speciality can be found all over the city. What makes gelato different and better than traditional ice creams? It’s slow churned, which helps to make it denser. It also has a lower percentage of fat and the taste is one that many people think of as the best in the world. Once you have gelato, you won’t want to eat boring, regular ice cream again.
Crostini Neri
Crostini Neri or black crostini is toasted bread served with chicken liver pâté on it! In Florence, this is an appetizer often enjoyed before the entree. At celebrations and on holidays, you can also find this on the table. This is a flavourful and tasty dish.
Tuscan Wines
Wine is a popular drink found in Italy and in Florence especially, it’s essential that you try a variety of red wines. If you’re not sure what to try first, order a glass of Chianti, which is a deep red wine with rich flavours. Another amazing wine found here is Brunello di Montalcino. This expensive wine is made from Brunello grapes and has a long ageing process. Wine is the perfect complement to Italian dishes.
These are some of the most notable dishes and drinks in Florence. Here at Eating Europe, we can introduce you to these tasty creations. Whether you choose to book our Florence Artisan Food Tour, Authentic Florence Home-Cooking Class, or another completely different experience, we’re ready to help you taste and explore the best local cuisine while in Italy! Connect with the local culture and food by booking with us today!
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