by Virginia
Italians often start their day with something sweet, and Tuscany is no exception. To fully embrace this tradition, visit a local bakery and treat yourself to a breakfast pastry. Two delicious and traditionally Tuscan options to try are budino di riso (rice pudding tart) and torta della nonna (grandmother’s cake).
Budino di riso is a delicately sweet rice pudding tart encased in a thin pastry crust — a perfect match for a cappuccino. Meanwhile, torta della nonna features a rich custard filling topped with pine nuts and a dusting of powdered sugar.
Enjoying one of these pastries with a classic Italian espresso at a café is the perfect way to experience Italy’s breakfast tradition.
Florence is world-famous for its gelato, an absolute must-try as you wander through the city’s streets. Creamy, flavorful, and often made with local ingredients, Florentine gelato is a true delight for both locals and visitors. Popular flavors include classic hazelnut, creamy pistachio, and refreshing lemon. For a unique experience, try combining different flavors or adding toppings such as chocolate chips or pieces of fresh fruit.
Gelato shops are plentiful, but some of the best include Vivoli, Gelateria Santa Trinita, and Gelateria dei Neri.
As you explore Tuscany’s vibrant street food scene, ribollita is a must-try dish that offers a true taste of local tradition. This hearty vegetable and bread soup — whose name means “reboiled” — originated as a clever way to reuse leftovers. Traditionally made with Tuscan kale, cannellini beans, carrots, and stale bread, ribollita perfectly embodies Tuscan cuisine: humble, flavorful, and full of character.
No trip to Florence is complete without trying lampredotto or trippa, two iconic Florentine street foods.
Lampredotto is made from the cow’s fourth stomach, slow-cooked with herbs and spices until tender, then served in a sandwich with a touch of green sauce (salsa verde).
Trippa, on the other hand, follows a similar preparation but often includes tomato sauce for a richer flavor.
These hearty dishes are a testament to the city’s rich culinary history and offer a genuine taste of Florence’s traditional cuisine.
Schiacciata, also known as Tuscan flatbread, is one of Florence’s most popular street foods. This crispy bread is often filled with a variety of ingredients, making it a quick and satisfying meal on the go. Traditional fillings include prosciutto and cheese, fresh vegetables, or salami.
The simple yet delicious flavors of schiacciata make it the perfect choice for anyone looking for a light snack or a quick lunch while exploring the city.
