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Renowned for its culinary scene, Florence is filled with places where you can enjoy a delicious snack or meal, and San Lorenzo is the ideal area to find the very best. While you are shopping in the bustling open-air market, take a brunch break at Mercato Centrale or if you prefer something more relaxing, choose one of the nearby excellent spots. Check our guide to make your plans much easier.

Weihnachts-Cantuccini

Il Cantuccio Di San Lorenzo

This is the best place to go if you want to taste cantuccini, the typical Tuscan biscuits. Il Cantuccio di San Lorenzo is a workshop selling directly the worldwide appreciated treats. Watch the fascinating process of their preparation, try some of the amazing flavors such as almond, fig and orange accompanied by milk, hot chocolate or coffee and make sure to buy some as souvenirs before you leave.

Bellamia

The founding members of Bellamia believe that eating an ice cream is an emotional experience beyond the senses, and this attitude is reflected in their tasty offerings, made with carefully selected ingredients. For a smooth and creamy Italian ice cream, choose one or more of Bellamia’s unique, incomparable flavors that will refresh you in the most enjoyable way.

News Cafè

Cafe, Bar, Italian, Vegetarian

An authentic gem hidden in a little square near the market is where locals go. News Cafè is a family-run cozy place with a lovely, warm atmosphere. Get a sandwich or a pastry and ask for the special cappuccino to be surprised by the cute, creative design on the top of it. Just a few visits will be enough for the barista to remember your order and serve it with a smile.

Panbriaco

Panbriaco was born in the heart of the city and it will surely grow in your heart too. Sit at one of the tables outside and enjoy an outstanding fresh panino or focaccia filled with your preferred ingredients. You will certainly find yourself wanting to return to Panbriaco for more divine Tuscan flavors.

Snack Bar Anna

Bar, Snack Bar, Italian, Pub Grub

After a few days in Italy, you will notice that most places charge double prices if you decide to sit down. This is not the case for Snack Bar Anna, where the cozy back room makes up the ideal setting to rest your feet at no additional cost. Although their homemade bagels are their specialty, you will find a wide range of heavenly, customized sandwiches suiting every possible taste.

Antica Gelateria Fiorentina

During your stay in Florence, you will have tried the refreshing treasure called gelato. Despite the huge competition, Antica Gelateria Fiorentina stands among the top choices. Sit at one of the little tables for a while to concentrate on your ice cream, characterized by an excellent texture, and do not hesitate to experiment with the unusual yet equally delicious flavors.

L'Azdora

The passion and care with which everything is prepared, along with the high quality, is more than obvious. Right behind the Mercato Centrale, search for L’ Azdora to enjoy a delightful piadina, the beloved Italian flatbread in the most casual, welcoming environment you will ever find. Even if you can’t decide what exactly you want, the staff’s recommendations will be of great help.

Forno I Tre Pini

Bakery, Pastries, Italian

Eiscafé - Iced Coffee
© Jutta M. Jenning/Flickr
A lovely bakery and pastry shop will be your little heaven whether you prefer savory or sweet snacks. Forno I Tre Pini is distinguished by its authenticity and wide variety of offerings. From pizza slices, salty prosciutto buns and biscottini to sweet pies, your brunch can’t go wrong with such a fantastic selection.

ITIT Il Sandwich Café

Cafe, Restaurant, Italian, Fast Food, Vegetarian, Vegan

This cafe should be your first stop if abundant, comfy seating and free Internet access are what you’re looking for. The ideal place for a weary traveler in need of a rest, ITIT is well known for its absolutely delicious iced coffee and cold drinks, as well as light meals like salads and sandwiches.

La Ménagère

Cafe, Cocktail Bar, Restaurant, Bistro, Italian

When gourmet cuisine comes together with blooming flowers and home accessories, the most unconventional, creative bistro in the city is born. If you also believe that food is art, spend your brunch break at La Ménagère. The savory and sweet specialties based on traditional recipes and revisited with a contemporary twist will beckon you to come back.

About the author

Maria Menegaki was born in Crete in 1991 and is an MA student of Social and Historical Anthropology at the University of the Aegean. She holds a BA in Geography and is constantly looking for ways to combine her academic interests with her passion for travelling and exploring. When she is not planning her next trip, she enjoys spending time with her cats, reading poetry or treehugging. She loves music and cinema and is determined never to grow up.

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