You must go to the most unassuming coffee shop in Florence. Right across the street from the Piazza di Santa Croce, is Caffè Mario. I stopped here every morning on the way to school. The service is quick, the caffé Americano is HOT, and the place is quintessentially Florentine. The pastries and sandwiches are good as well. We would go there for a quick lunch, getting their fabulous ham and cheese sandwich to take out to the piazza – a perfect people watching lunch.
One Great Day in
Santa Croce
BREAKFAST
Pro Tip: I hope the adorable black schnauzer who works at the Tabaccheria next door is hanging out when you stop in for your morning coffee.
LUNCH
This is a lunch spot — but you must get there before 1pm. The amazing Trattoria di Rocco is in the Mercato di Sant’Ambrogio, which is a short, pleasant walk from the Piazza di Santa Croce. This market is a traditional Italian food market, with fresh everything! Fresh veggies and fruit, pasta, meat, seafood and more. All within the market in stalls owned and run by some of the nicest people in Florence. I highly recommend getting lunch with Rocco then walking around the market to take in all the sights and smells.
Pro Tip: The owner Rocco is often there, serving his guests and making sure the kitchen runs smoothly. I don’t know how long he’s been in charge of this place, but it’s been a minute and you can tell he’s the man in charge. The service is chaotic and you may end up sitting with some nice folks, but I promise, the food is authentic and delicious.
DINNER
Another Scuola Parola (my Italian language school) student favorite is Café Berbere, just down the street from the school on Via dei Benci. This place is perfect for just an aperitivo or for dinner. I particularly like their pizze fritte with spicy ‘nduja on it!
AGENDA FOR THE DAY
The Basilica di Santa Croce is a masterpiece of Italian Gothic architecture, renowned for its stunning façade and intricate details that showcase centuries of craftsmanship. It houses the tombs of illustrious figures such as Michelangelo, Galileo Galilei, Machiavelli, and Dante and includes a vast array of priceless artworks, including frescoes by Giotto and Donatello’s striking crucifix, offering a profound glimpse into the Renaissance art movement. The church is a quiet place to spend an hour or two, away from the hubbub of the busy city streets. When we were there, it was also a safe haven from an insane hail storm!