Here's a guide to my favorite wine bars and trattorias in the neighborhoods of major cultural attractions in Florence. Look for my decal in the window. And tell them Divina Cucina sent you!

Palazzo Vecchio Piazza della Signoria Osteria Vini e Vecchi Sapori Via dei Magazzini, 3R Tel: 055-293-045 Web The owner is like an old style oste or "innkeeper" from the original osteria's of medieval times. He can be a little gruff at times. But this tiny winebar is the place for a light meal! He offers an incredible menu of wonderful antipasti. You may not be able to decide. Don't! Have some of everything! This is a great place to enjoy the local color. Gelateria Le Carrozza Near the Ponte Vecchio What better place to have a light lunch or meal than at an ice cream parlor! Located just on the Duomo side of the Ponte Vecchio, this is one of my favorite traditional ice cream parlors. Moreover, it has a small dining menu too. The banana splits are a big favorite here! By the way, Marco Polo did not bring the banana split to Italy. The banana split was invented in 1904 at Strickler's Drug Store in Pennsylvania. Rivoire Piazza Signoria, 3R Tel: 055-293-045 Closed Sunday A historic bar, chocolate factory. In the winter, try the Florentine hot chocolate; it's more like pudding than hot chocolate. The desserts are also great and a gift of chocolates from Rivoire is always well received. If you sit down to enjoy a cocktail or sandwich outside, bring all your postcards to write. Sitting down at this type of bar carries an outrageous surcharge! A coffee outside is three times the cost of a coffee standing at the bar. If you choose to sit, take your time and enjoy your space; you've paid for it and no one will ask you to leave. Click on the sight below that you plan to visit and I'll recommend the best place nearby to stop for a bite to eat. Galleria dell'Accademia Cappelle Medicee Museo del Bargello Palazzo Vecchio Mercato di San Lorenzo Mercato di San Ambrogio Santa Croce The Duomo Santa Maria Novella Oltrarno Fuori Porta (Outskirts)