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This guide focuses on sit-down trattorie and osterie — not street food. If you’re after quick bites under €10, see our Florence Street Food Guide.
Florence is a paradise for food lovers, but prices in the historic center can spike and quality can be hit-or-miss. To help you avoid tourist traps, here are five affordable, best-value restaurants where locals eat and travelers leave happy.
What You’ll Learn
- How to enjoy classic Tuscan dishes on a budget
- 5 cheap-but-excellent places to eat in Florence (with maps)
How to Pick Great & Affordable Restaurants in Florence
1) Follow the locals
Step a few blocks away from the busiest landmarks or look near markets. Local-favorite spots usually offer honest portions and fair prices.
2) Aim for lunch deals
Lunch menus can be terrific value. If your schedule allows, plan your bigger meal at midday and keep dinner lighter.
3) Check recent reviews
Google Maps ratings and the most recent comments are handy for openings, price changes, and must-order dishes.
5 Cheap Eats in Florence That Are Actually Delicious
1) Trattoria Mario (by San Lorenzo Market)
No-frills, third-generation trattoria (since 1953) beloved by locals. Expect hearty Tuscan classics at wallet-friendly prices and a lively, communal vibe.
Must-try: Lampredotto trippato (stewed tripe), daily Tuscan specials
Budget: ~€10–15 per person
Good to know: It gets busy — arrive early for lunch.
Map:
Name: Trattoria Mario
Address: Via Rosina 2r, 50123 Firenze
Hours: 12:00–15:00 (Fri also 19:30–22:00)
Closed: Sun & holidays
Website: trattoriamario.com
Booking: Phone +39 055 218 550
2) Vini e Vecchi Sapori (near Piazza della Signoria)
Tiny, homey osteria in the heart of the old town. Despite the central location, it stays authentic and fairly priced — and regulars love it.
Must-try: Pappardelle al ragù d’anatra (duck ragù pappardelle)
Budget: ~€15–20 per person
Vibe: Warm, family-run feel. Reservations recommended.
Map:
Name: Vini e Vecchi Sapori
Address: Via dei Magazzini 3/r, 50122 Firenze
Hours: 12:00–14:30, 19:00–22:30
Closed: Sun & holidays
Instagram: @vini_e_vecchi_sapori
Booking: Phone +39 055 293 045
3) Trattoria 13 Gobbi (Santa Maria Novella area)
Popular with visitors and locals alike. Known for its photogenic, family-style rigatoni in tomato and mozzarella sauce — comforting, filling, and shareable.
Must-try: I nostri famosi Rigatoni
Budget: ~€20–25 per person
Tip: Book ahead; it’s a crowd-pleaser.
Map:
Name: Trattoria 13 Gobbi
Address: Via del Porcellana 9R, 50123 Firenze
Hours: 12:30–15:00, 19:30–23:00
Closed: Irregular
Website: casatrattoria.com
Booking: TheFork / Phone +39 055 284 015
My full visit report: Trattoria 13 Gobbi Review
4) Il Latini (classic steakhouse vibes)
Old-school favorite famous for Bistecca alla Fiorentina (T-bone steak). Portions are generous, service is upbeat, and you can keep the bill reasonable if you skip the steak and share pastas and sides.
Must-try: Bistecca alla Fiorentina (or shareable pastas if on a tight budget)
Budget: ~€35–45 with steak; ~€15–20 without steak
Map:
Name: Il Latini
Address: Via dei Palchetti 6R, 50123 Firenze
Hours: Sat–Sun 12:30–14:30 & 19:30–22:30; Tue–Fri 19:30–22:30
Closed: Monday
Website: latinifirenze.com
Booking: Website / Phone +39 055 210 916
Detailed visit report: Il Latini Review
5) Trattoria Zà Zà (by Mercato Centrale)
Just off the Central Market, this crowd-pleasing spot has a big menu and friendly prices for the location.
Popular pick: Gnocchi with truffle sauce
Budget: ~€20–25 per person
Why it’s handy: Long hours, easy for first-timers.
Map:
Name: Trattoria Zà Zà
Address: Piazza del Mercato Centrale 26r, 50123 Firenze
Hours: 11:00–23:00
Closed: Irregular
Website: trattoriazaza.it
Booking: Online
Money-Saving Tips for Eating Out in Florence
Understand the Coperto (table charge)
Most restaurants add a small per-person fee (€1–3). It’s normal in Italy — budget for it.
Share smartly
Sharing large dishes can cut costs, but Italy typically expects one course per person. If you split more than usual, a small tip is a kind gesture.
Use a little Italian
Even a friendly Buongiorno and Per favore can go a long way in service and recommendations.
Related Guides
- Must-Eat Foods in Florence
- 9 Best Things to Do in Florence (Must-Do Experiences You’ll Love)
- Movies & Animation to Get You in a Florence Mood
Looking for a budget-friendly wine experience from Florence? Consider a Chianti winery tour — two wineries and transport included.
≫Search Chianti winery tours on GetYourGuide
FAQ: Cheap Eats (Sit-Down) in Florence
Where can I eat cheaply near the Duomo?
Walk 5–10 minutes away from the cathedral toward San Lorenzo Market or Oltrarno. Local trattorie like Trattoria Mario offer better value.
Is tipping required in Florence?
Not required, but rounding up or leaving small change is appreciated — especially if sharing plates or staying long.