The Best Quick Lunch Spots in Florence Italy: Options for Every Appetite
Florence is full of art, history, and great food. Sometimes you just need a quick meal to fuel the rest of your day, and for some reason, finding a good lunch in the city center can be a bit of a hassle. Most places you’ll come by offer either large, heavy meals, mediocre panini, or just pastries without much variation in between.
After living in Florence for two years, I’ve rounded up some of my favorite quick lunch spots across the city. Whether you’re studying abroad, exploring for a few days, or working remotely, finding the right lunch spot can make your day so much smoother. From pancakes to pasta, these are my go-to places for a great meal that fits any schedule.
*indicate my favorites in each category for those who aren’t into decision making
Note: panini is actually the plural of panino in Italian, I promise it’s not a typo 🙂
Grab-and-Go Lunch Spots in Florence
If you’re on the move or just want something efficient, these spots are perfect for a quick bite you can enjoy between sightseeing stops.
Panini Toscani
Location: Piazza del Duomo 34R
Panini Toscani is a Florence staple for classic Tuscan sandwiches. Located just steps from the Duomo, ideal for travelers who want an authentic panino with no frills. You’ll choose your fillings by sampling local cheeses, meats, and fresh bread baked that morning. It’s simple, cheap, and fast.
SandwiChic
Location: Via San Gallo 3R
SandwiChic is a student favorite but still hasn’t been overrun with tourists. It’s small, locally run, and consistently serves some of the best panini in the city. Everything is fresh, customizable, and made to order. They also have vegetarian options, and it’s a quick walk from most major attractions.
*Lo SchiacciaVino
Locations: Via Giuseppe Verdi 6R (Santa Croce), Borgo San Frediano 10R (Oltrarno), and Via Vincenzo Gioberti 174R (Piazza Cesare Beccaria)
A few steps away from Santa Croce, Schiacchiavino serves traditional schiacciata sandwiches; Tuscan flatbread stuffed with high-quality ingredients, and paired with a local glass of wine if you’re not in a rush. The atmosphere is cozy, the prices are great, and it’s the perfect mix of local and casual. My personal favorite is the Mielosa (Tuscan salami, pecorino, honey, and caramelized onions) with arugula and balsamic added.
Amici di Ponte Vecchio
Location: Via dei Bardi 39R
Right next to Ponte Vecchio, Amici di Ponte Vecchio is a hidden gem for quick lunches. They serve sandwiches, light plates, and wine by the glass. It’s small and friendly with a few seats outside; great if you need a quick rest from walking the city. I’d recommend taking your sandwich to a spot along the river to enjoy the view. If you don’t know which to choose, try the “Grandma’s Special”, it’s simple but so good.
*Pizzeria Ganza
Location: Via die Cimatori 25R
Ganza is a casual spot perfect for a fast, flavorful lunch that you can take on the go. They offer personal size pizzas, served folded so you can walk with them like a sandwich. There are a ton of topping options, ranging from traditional to out-of-the-box, so you’re sure to find one you love. It’s a great grab-and-go option if you’re between the Duomo and Palazzo Vecchio.
Brunch and Café-Style Lunch Spots
For slower days or when you want something a little more relaxed, these brunch and cafe-style spots serve everything from smoothie bowls to classic eggs Benedict.
*Ditta Artigianale
Locations: Via dei Neri 32R, Via Carducci 2R, Via dello Sprone 5R, Lungarno Soderini 7R
Ditta Artigianale is Florence’s go-to cafe for modern coffee culture and brunch-style meals. They roast their own beans and serve everything from sandwiches and pastries to smoothie bowls and pancakes.
Each location has its own vibe:
-Via dei Neri: Central, busy, fast casual. They also have a walk-up window.
-Via Carducci (Sant’Ambrogio): This one is my favorite! It’s spacious and perfect for studying or working. This location is built into a church and has an outdoor courtyard in the back.
-Via dello Sprone (Oltrarno): A large space tucked away across the river, ideal for brunch or aperitivo.
-Lungarno Soderini (Riva d’Arno): The smallest location, situated right next to the Arno near Ponte alle Carraia. Perfect for a quick quiet lunch or coffee.
My favorite order here is a caesar salad, with sweet potato fries, and a chai latte. The salad definitely isn’t what you’d expect of a “ceasar salad” based on the American version; I’d say it’s more of a cob salad, but I promise it’s delicious. If I want something a bit heavier their Croque Monsieur is also to die for.
Rooster Café
Locations: Via Porta Rossa 63R and Via Sant’Egidio 37R
Rooster Cafe is known for its big brunch, strong coffee, and mimosas. The menu blends American and Italian influences with everything from chicken and waffles to lighter salads and wraps. It’s upbeat, friendly, and perfect if you’re craving a sit-down lunch that won’t take all afternoon. Also an ideal hangover meal.
*Le Vespe Café
Location: Via Ghibellina 76R
Le Vespe is one of those places that immediately feels familiar. It’s run by a Canadian owner and has a relaxed, international vibe that makes it a favorite among study abroad students and digital nomads. They make their own hot sauce in house and, from someone who doesn’t even like spicy food, it’s phenomenal on everything. You’ll find breakfast burritos, bagels, smoothies, and some of the best iced coffee in Florence. I usually go for The Logan (classic breakfast burrito) or The Finch (bacon grilled cheese) with home fries and an iced chai.
Banana Bar
Location: Via Faenza, 50r
Banana Bar is the perfect choice if you’re looking for something fresh and filling. It’s a small, modern spot known for smoothies, juices, and brunch-style dishes like avocado toast and yogurt bowls. It’s quick enough for takeout but cozy enough to sit and stay a while. They also have phenomenal eggs benedict.
Ozio Bistrò
Location: Borgo Ognissanti 32/24R
Ozio Bistrò combines the feel of a cafe and a wine bar, making it great for both casual lunches and early aperitivo. Their menu focuses on fresh, seasonal ingredients and light dishes. I usually go for the shakshuka or eggs benedict… and maybe a slice of blueberry cheesecake. It’s a great spot if you want a quiet place to recharge away from the tourist bustle.
Italian Lunches: Pizza, Pasta, and Local Favorites
Sometimes you just want pasta or pizza, and in Florence there’s no shortage of either. These spots are casual, quick, and filled with local flavor.
Trattoria da Rocco
Location: Piazza Lorenzo Ghiberti (inside Sant’Ambrogio Market)
Trattoria da Rocco is an old-school Florentine spot inside the Sant’Ambrogio Market. It’s local, affordable, and full of charm. The menu changes daily, featuring pasta, soups, and classic Tuscan dishes. You’ll be surrounded by locals on their lunch break; a true hidden gem that’s easy on your wallet.
*Il Giova
Location: Via Borgo la Croce 73R
Il Giova is a small trattoria known for its cozy atmosphere and fresh, homemade food. The service is fast, the portions are generous, and the prices are some of the best in town. Every time I’ve been I’ve chosen a different dish and they’ve all been insanely good. Perfect if you want a traditional Italian meal without committing to a long sit-down. They serve dishes from various regions and change their menu regularly to fit seasonal availability.
GustaPanino
Location: Piazza Santo Spirito 1
In the heart of Santo Spirito, Gusta Panino is one of those classic Florentine sandwich spots that never disappoints. But don’t let the name fool you; they also have amazing pasta dishes. They serve hearty, freshly made panini with a variety of fillings. It’s quick, affordable, and perfect for grabbing lunch before exploring the artisan shops nearby. If pizza is more your vibe, the famous GustaPizza is run by the same family and just around the corner.
L’Brindellone
Location: Piazza Piattellina 10
L’Brindellone is everything you want from a neighborhood trattoria; authentic, welcoming, and full of locals. The menu includes hearty Tuscan favorites like ribollita and tagliatelle al ragù, along with excellent house wine. It’s the kind of place that feels like you’ve stumbled into someone’s family kitchen. If you’re looking for a truly Florentine meal, this is the place for you.
*New Bridge Pizza
Location: Via dell’ Oriuolo 26R
New Bridge is a modern Italian restaurant that keeps things simple and fresh. The menu includes a variety of pizzas, salads, and pasta, all made in their open kitchen. While a bit less traditional, I highly recommend their Panuozzi, which are pizza sandwiches. Their Pugliese pizza is also a crowd pleaser (burrata with a pesto smiley face). The staff here is hilarious and it’s in a great central location.
Mercato Centrale
Location: Piazza del Mercato Centrale
Mercato Centrale is Florence’s ultimate lunch destination for indecisive eaters. This massive indoor market is filled with vendors selling pizza, pasta, sandwiches, seafood, and more. You can walk around, grab what looks good, and eat at the communal tables. It’s fun, fast, and ideal for groups. After exploring the main market floor, take the escalator upstairs to reach the food hall.
Note from the author: Has this post changed how you’re planning your trip or given you inspiration for your next adventure? Please drop a comment below! Comments help to grow my blog and let me know what to write more of 🙂
TL;DR Recap
-Grab-and-Go: Panini Toscani, SandwiChic, Lo Schiacciavino, Amici di Ponte Vecchio, Ganza
-Brunch Style: Ditta Artigianale, Rooster Café, Le Vespe, Banana Bar, Ozio Bistrò
-Italian Favorites: Trattoria da Rocco, Il Giova, L’Brindellone, Gusta Panino, New Bridge, Mercato Centrale
Are you in Florence or visiting soon? Get Your Guide is my go-to website for finding tours and activities while traveling. Two of my absolute favorites are the Palazzo Vecchio Secret Passages Tour and the Pasta & Tiramisu cooking class (with unlimited wine of course). Check out all of their Florence experiences here!
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Final Thoughts
Finding a quick lunch in Florence doesn’t have to mean getting the first mediocre panino you see. Whether you’re craving a Tuscan sandwich, a brunch vibe, or a comforting bowl of pasta, these spots make it easy to enjoy a good meal that fits your travel pace.
