  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! |
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 Mercato San Ambrogio When Italy was united in 1860 and in 1864, Florence was cleaned up in order to be the capital of the Italian kingdom. Three markets were built--the largest, Mercato Centrale, in San Lorenzo, not far from the old market in Piazza Republica; San Ambrogio, in the Pratolinian district near Santa Croce; and, San Frediano, on the other side of the Arno River. The market at San Frediano no longer exists. San Ambrogio was the fruit and vegetable market until 1955 when the large wholesale market was built on the outskirts of the city. Today, the inside of the market is dedicated to meats, fish, and cheese, and it sports a great little restaurant, Rocco. Outdoors, under a roof extension, fruit and vegetable stands are intermingled with plants, fresh flowers, and household items. You can even find farmers selling their products on the far side of the market.  Tavola Calda da RoccoMercato di San Ambrogio Open for lunch only Uncomfortable tables; however, when you eat the food and see the bill, it's all worth it! You can also get food to go at Rocco! One of the fun experiences of being in Florence is to eat in a market. Don't miss Rocco!  Il CibrèoVia Andrea del Verrocchio, 8R Tel: 055-234-11-00 Fax: 055-24-49-66 Closed Sunday & Monday Reservations a must at the restaurant! Cibrèo is a gastronomic oasis, combining an elegant restaurant with a trattoria at its back door that share the same kitchen, and an exciting bar across the street. Cibrèo's front room offers a memorable dining experience. Fabio Picchi, the owner, does not believe in serving pasta as a first course. However, with the heavenly dishes he offers in its place, you won't miss it. I adore the potato sformato with ragu, the pureed yellow pepper soup, and the polenta with herbs. Let the staff help you order; you're in good hands. Cibrèo Trattoria, also known as the sala dei poveri (the poor room), serves a smaller selection of the same food. No table clothes or stemmed glassware, and you won't see Fabio near your table. It's excellent food for one-third the price of the main restaurant! Also closed Sunday and Monday.  Gilda Bistrot
Piazza Ghiberti, 40-41R Tel: 055-234-3885 Closed Sunday This tiny bistro is filled with antiques -- it was an antique furniture shop before Gilda turned it into her bistro with her son William. Tiny tables, old theatre seats, mismatched glasses, and vintage tablecloths and placemats create a unique dining room. Gilda herself waits on customers. Typical dishes, not only Tuscan, are reasonably priced, and the menu changes often. There is a table for 6 in the cantina that's perfect for a special dinner with friends. Gilda's desserts are incredible!  |
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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) 
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