Cafés
Coffee is as much a part of Italian life as breathing. Italians will pop into their local café several times a day for a pick-me-up, perhaps a cappuccino in the morning but mostly a quick espresso. Coffee quality in Florence, and throughout Italy, can be mixed, though thankfully the overall quality has been steadily improving over the past few years. The list of cafes below all serve up excellent coffee and often delicious pastries or small meals.
Note: In Italy if you sit at a table for coffee you will be charged table service prices, often more than double the standing price. Sometimes this is worth it, when you need a rest, want to take in a spectacular view or indulge in a spot of people watching. However, if you just want a quick caffeine hit, stand at the bar (with all the locals) and you will be charged the cheapest rate.
Also, in Italy you usually need to pay to use a public toilet. However, if you buy a coffee or other drink in a café you can use their restroom for free.
Chiaroscuro
Via del Corso 36/r, 50122, Firenze Fl
Located right in the historical centre, 3 minutes walk from the Duomo, you can find Chiaroscuro, an authentic Italian coffee bar. Chiaroscuro is not fancy, but the staff are friendly, and the coffee is well made and served in authentic surrounds. A welcome change from many of the famous alternatives in this area.
Coffee Mantra
Via della Mattonaia 71/r | anglio Borgo la Croce, 50121, Firenze Fl
On a bustling street corner in an authentically Florentine area of the city, away from the hordes of tourists, lies Coffee Mantra – home to possibly the best cup of coffee in the city. The friendly staff at Coffee Mantra, led by owner/barista Giovanni, are truly passionate about creating the perfect cup of coffee. You’ll find the usual espresso, cortado and cappuccino, as well as a rotating selection of interesting single origin options. It’s a tiny café, but with a great atmosphere and well worth visiting for a great cup of coffee served by friendly and passionate staff.
Pasticceria Robiglio
Via dei Servi 112/r, 50122, Firenze Fl
In a quiet side street off the beautiful Piazza della Santissima Annunziata lies Pasticceria Robiglio, a pastry shop and café. Operated by the same family since 1928, Robiglio’s serves up delicious, home-made pastries and coffees which you can enjoy inside or on the small terrace outside. Or why not grab a take-away cappuccino and pistachio croissant and sit in the historic surrounds of the Piazza, enjoying the two late-Renaissance fountains and the bronze statue of Ferdinando I.
Sbrino Gelatificio Contadino
Via dei Serragli, 32r, 50124 Firenze Fl
On a picturesque street corner, just across the river, in the heart of the Oltrarno neighbourhood you’ll find the best gelato in Florence. The line of locals snaking out the door is an early tipoff that you’re in for a treat. The friendly and obliging staff will let you sample a few before you decide, but that probably won’t help as they are all so good. Delicious and reasonably priced…. don’t miss the pistachio flavour!
Le Vespe
Via Ghibellina 76R, 50122, Firenze Fl
Just two minutes walk from the Basilica of Santa Croce, you’ll find the delightful brunch café, Le Vespe. A little different to most cafes in Florence, Le Vespe has a Canadian vibe, serving fresh, healthy meals with friendly service. The menu features dishes such as granola with yogurt and fresh fruit or coconut quinoa porridge, as well as pancakes or a full English breakfast. They also serve fresh smoothies, juices and excellent coffee. Also available is a vegan menu as well as gluten free bread and almond milk. Be warned, it is a popular spot so you may have to wait for a table.
Caffè Rosanò
Via San Gallo 29, R, 50129, Firenze Fl
On a quiet street in the San Marco area, just a few minutes from Galleria dell’Accademia, you’ll find this gem of a café. Caffe Rosano serves outstanding coffee along with a hearty breakfast, lunch and pastries. Known for their delicious house omelettes and crepes as well as their signature pistachio croissants, what they really specialise in is customer service. Run by brother and sister Mauro and Rosa, you are made to feel welcome by the friendly and helpful staff as soon as you enter.
