Ranking Best Food in Florence: 6 Dishes You Can’t Miss

Florence is famous for art and history, but the food is just as exciting. If you’re planning a trip, you’re probably curious what dishes you should actually try. 

In this guide, you’ll find a ranking of the best food Firenze is known for, why each dish deserves its spot, and where you can try them. You’ll also find fun experiences like cooking classes and food tours so you can taste good food in Florence while learning about the city’s food culture!

To help you out, here’s a ranking of the best food in Florence you can’t miss: Bistecca alla Fiorentina (#1), Gelato (#2), Ribollita (#3), Cantucci e Vin Santo (#4), Pappa al Pomodoro (#5), and Coccoli (#6).

Bistecca alla Fiorentina ranks #1 among the best food in Florence, Italy, because it’s the city’s most famous and iconic dish. When you visit Florence, trying this giant Tuscan steak feels almost like a tradition. It’s made from Chianina beef and grilled over hot coals with simple seasoning so the meat’s flavor stands out.

It earns the top spot because it represents Florence’s food culture better than any other dish. One of the best ways to experience it is by joining the MasterSteak cooking class with unlimited wine in Florence. You’ll learn how locals grill the steak and enjoy it with wine, turning the meal into a full Tuscan feast.

Gelato ranks #2 among the best food Firenze visitors fall in love with, and it’s easy to see why. Florence is often connected to the invention of gelato during the Renaissance period. Compared to regular ice cream, gelato is smoother, denser, and packed with flavor.

You can enjoy gelato while walking around the city, especially after dinner. If you want a hands-on experience, join the pasta and gelato cooking class in Florence. You’ll make fresh pasta and learn how to churn your own gelato from scratch. It’s one of the sweetest ways to enjoy Florence’s good food.

Ribollita ranks #3 among the best foods in Florence, Italy, because it shows the heart of traditional Tuscan cooking. This thick soup is made with bread, beans, cabbage, and vegetables. The name means “reboiled,” since the soup is reheated to make the flavors richer.

It ranks high because it’s one of the most traditional dishes locals still eat today. The soup is warm, filling, and perfect for experiencing Florence’s home-style cooking.

Cantucci e Vin Santo ranks #4 among the best food Firenze offers for desserts. Cantucci are crunchy almond biscuits served with Vin Santo, a sweet Tuscan wine. The traditional way to eat them is by dipping the biscuits into the wine.

This dessert earns its ranking because it’s a classic way to finish a Tuscan meal. Many restaurants and vineyards serve it after dinner. You can also enjoy this sweet pairing during a Chianti day trip with lunch, where dessert and wine tasting are often part of the experience.

Pappa al Pomodoro ranks #5 among the best foods in Florence, Italy, because it highlights simple Tuscan ingredients. This thick tomato soup is made with stale bread, garlic, olive oil, and basil. The bread absorbs the tomato sauce and creates a rich texture.

It ranks fifth because it’s a classic comfort dish that reflects traditional “cucina povera” cooking. You can taste it during the Sant’Ambrogio Market food tour, where you explore one of Florence’s most popular markets.  

Coccoli ranks #6 among the best foods Florence locals enjoy as a snack. These small fried dough balls are crispy outside and soft inside. They’re usually served with prosciutto and creamy stracchino cheese.

It ranks sixth because it’s more of a snack or appetizer rather than a full meal. Still, it’s a favorite among locals and a great example of Florence street food. You can try it on the Florence food tour with All’Antico Vinaio, where you explore the city’s famous food spots.

One of the most famous foods in Florence is Bistecca alla Fiorentina. This thick Tuscan steak is grilled over hot coals and served rare. It’s often considered the city’s most iconic dish.

Florence is known for street foods like coccoli, lampredotto sandwiches, and schiacciata bread. These quick bites are popular in local markets and food stalls. Food tours are a great way to try them in one trip.

Besides visiting famous landmarks, you should not miss the city’s food culture. Try classic dishes like gelato, ribollita, and Bistecca alla Fiorentina. Cooking classes and food tours make the experience even more fun.

A must-eat dish in Florence is Bistecca alla Fiorentina. The steak is famous for its size, flavor, and traditional preparation. Many travelers plan an entire meal around trying it.