The Most Affordable Restaurants in Florence: Our Inspectors' Top Picks

Located in the heart of Florence’s Oltrarno, in the atmospheric San Niccolò district, Zeb Gastronomia delivers a modern twist on Tuscan tradition— at an approachable price point. This intimate, family-run spot skips conventional dining tables in favor of a sleek, sushi-style counter, where diners can engage directly with chef-owner Giuseppina and her son.

The blackboard menu changes daily, featuring refined takes on regional staples: pillowy cappellacci, hand-rolled pici, and mains like trippa alla fiorentina, rich peposo, or beef tongue in dolce forte. No reservations are taken for lunch, making it a perfect stop for spontaneous, high-quality dining without the fuss — or the high price tag.

Just five minutes away, the Porta San Giorgio, a 14th-century gateway in Florence’s old city walls, offers a quiet slice of history to explore before or after your meal.

In Florence’s lively Sant’Ambrogio neighborhood, Trattoria Cibrèo — affectionately known as Il Cibrèino — celebrates the soul of Tuscan cooking with timeless charm and unpretentious flair. A more casual offshoot of the famed Cibrèo empire, this Bib Gourmand pick offers a taste of tradition at a wallet-friendly price.

The namesake dish, cibreo — a creamy, rich chicken offal stew once adored by Catherine de’ Medici — anchors a menu rooted in local heritage. Standouts include hearty soups, seasonal vegetables, and the much-loved gran pezzo, a tender roast rack of beef. The cozy space fills quickly, and with no reservations accepted, expect a short wait that’s well worth it.

Just five minutes away, the Mercato di Sant’Ambrogio, dating back to 1873, offers an authentic glimpse into Florentine daily life — perfect for a stroll before or after your meal.

Just steps from the bustling Sant’Ambrogio market, L’Ortone offers a warm, unpretentious spot to enjoy Tuscan flavors with a modern touch. Its simple, cozy setting complements a menu that balances beloved regional classics with inventive Italian dishes — like spaghetti with tomato, burrata, and grilled yellow tomatoes.

The well-curated wine list features excellent local labels at various price points, perfect for pairing with your meal. On pleasant days, the small outdoor seating area adds a relaxed alfresco vibe to your dining experience.

Only a three-minute stroll from L’Ortone brings you back to the vibrant Mercato di Sant’Ambrogio, where you can soak up Florence’s authentic market atmosphere.

With just a few tables and reservations recommended, Podere 39 offers an intimate dining experience where rustic charm meets refined elegance. True to its name — podere meaning “farm” in Italian—some ingredients are lovingly sourced from the restaurant’s own farm, ensuring freshness and authenticity in every dish.

The menu thoughtfully balances meat and fish options, showcasing seasonal flavors in a cozy yet sophisticated setting.
Just a pleasant 10-minute walk from Podere 39, the stunning Giardino di Boboli awaits — a historic 16th-century garden filled with statues, fountains, and shaded paths, perfect for a serene post-meal stroll.

About 3 miles from Florence’s city center, this beloved trattoria — also a historic grocer’s shop—draws a loyal local crowd with its authentic Tuscan fare. Reservations are strongly recommended to secure a seat at this cozy, welcoming spot. The standout dish is the expertly grilled Fiorentina steak, a true Florentine classic, accompanied by comforting traditional soups and handmade pasta specialties. The wine list, carefully curated by Andrea, a passionate sommelier, features regional gems and pairs perfectly with the menu. Andrea’s themed wine-tasting evenings offer a delightful bonus for wine lovers seeking an immersive experience.

Just a short stroll from Piazza della Repubblica, Il Latini is a cherished Florence classic where authentic Tuscan flavors shine in warm, rustic surroundings. The menu honors tradition with hearty dishes like pappa al pomodoro, ribollita stew, and Florentine tripe, while the iconic bistecca alla Fiorentina remains the star — prepared with the same care that has made this restaurant a beloved local staple for generations.
Atmospheric details like hanging cured hams and a sweet finish of cantucci with vin santo complete the experience, offering diners an unforgettable taste of Tuscany’s culinary heritage.