Top 5 Places for the Best Breakfast in Florence – From Cafés to Brunch

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Finding the best breakfast in Florence is an essential part of experiencing the city’s rich culture and cuisine. Whether you’re a fan of traditional Italian pastries and espresso or looking for a hearty brunch with international flavors, Florence offers a wide variety of breakfast spots to suit every taste. In this guide, we’ll explore some of the top cafés and restaurants where you can enjoy a delicious morning meal in this beautiful city.

Top 5 Places for the Best Breakfast in Florence

Finding the best breakfast in Florence can be overwhelming with so many excellent cafés and restaurants scattered across the city. Whether you’re after a quick espresso and pastry or a full brunch, these five spots offer a perfect start to your day. Here’s a breakdown of each place, including their location, accessibility, menu variety, and more.

 best breakfast in Florence

1. Ditta Artigianale

  • Location & Accessibility: Via dei Neri 32r, near Uffizi Gallery and Ponte Vecchio. Easily accessible on foot from central tourist spots.
  • Opening Hours & Wait Time: (8 AM – 7 PM); no wait early morning, busier after 9 AM.
  • Variety of Breakfast Options: Known for its artisanal coffee and international brunch menu, including avocado toast, scrambled eggs, and pastries.
  • Quality of Food: Fresh, locally sourced ingredients.
  • Ambiance & Atmosphere: Cozy, modern café with a relaxed vibe.
  • Pricing & Value for Money: €5 – €12; moderate pricing with good value.
  • Customer Service: Friendly, English-speaking staff.
  • Popularity & Local Reputation: Popular with locals and tourists.
  • Special Dietary Options: Vegan and gluten-free options available.
  • Family-Friendly Options: Limited seating for large groups.
  • Seasonal & Specialty Offerings: Seasonal pastries and specialty coffee.
  • Additional Features or Amenities: Free Wi-Fi, good for remote work.
  • Insider Tips: Arrive before 9 AM for a quieter experience.
  • Contact Info:
  • Website: dittaartigianale.com
  • Instagram: @dittaartigianale
  • Facebook: Ditta Artigianale

2. La Ménagère

  • Location & Accessibility: Via de’ Ginori 8r, near Mercato Centrale. Easily accessible via public transport or a short walk from the Duomo.
  • Opening Hours & Wait Time: 7:30 AM – midnight; moderate wait during peak hours.
  • Variety of Breakfast Options: Pastries, eggs Benedict, smoothie bowls.
  • Quality of Food: High-quality, locally sourced ingredients.
  • Ambiance & Atmosphere: Chic, Instagram-worthy café with floral shop.
  • Pricing & Value for Money: €8 – €20; higher-end pricing.
  • Customer Service: Professional, though slower during busy periods.
  • Popularity & Local Reputation: Trendy, popular with tourists and locals.
  • Special Dietary Options: Vegan and gluten-free options available.
  • Family-Friendly Options: Spacious seating, kid-friendly menu.
  • Seasonal & Specialty Offerings: Seasonal breakfast items.
  • Additional Features or Amenities: Florist shop inside.
  • Insider Tips: Make a reservation for weekend brunch.
  • Contact Info:
  • Website: lamenagere.it
  • Instagram: @lamenagerefirenze
  • Facebook: La Ménagère Firenze

3. Le Vespe Café

  • Location & Accessibility: Via Ghibellina 76r, near Basilica of Santa Croce.
  • Opening Hours & Wait Time: 8 AM – 3 PM; short 10-15 minute wait during peak times.
  • Variety of Breakfast Options: Pancakes, bagels, smoothies, healthy options.
  • Quality of Food: Fresh, generous portions.
  • Ambiance & Atmosphere: Casual, laid-back vibe.
  • Pricing & Value for Money: €6 – €10; affordable and great value.
  • Customer Service: Friendly, English-speaking staff.
  • Popularity & Local Reputation: Popular with expats and tourists.
  • Special Dietary Options: Vegetarian, vegan, and customizable options.
  • Family-Friendly Options: Comfortable seating, kid-friendly menu.
  • Seasonal & Specialty Offerings: Seasonal specials (e.g., pumpkin spice pancakes).
  • Additional Features or Amenities: Free Wi-Fi, suitable for casual work.
  • Insider Tips: Arrive early on weekends to avoid crowds.
  • Contact Info:
  • Website: levespecafe.com
  • Instagram: Le Vespe Café
  • Facebook: Le Vespe Café

4. Caffè Gilli

  • Location & Accessibility: Piazza della Repubblica, central Florence.
  • Opening Hours & Wait Time: 7:30 AM – midnight; busy all day, quick service.
  • Variety of Breakfast Options: Cornetti, pastries, espresso, brunch items.
  • Quality of Food: Freshly made pastries, high-quality coffee.
  • Ambiance & Atmosphere: Elegant, historic café with outdoor seating.
  • Pricing & Value for Money: €8 – €20; high-end, but worth it for the location.
  • Customer Service: Attentive, experienced with tourists.
  • Popularity & Local Reputation: Famous café, popular with locals and tourists.
  • Special Dietary Options: Limited vegan and gluten-free options.
  • Family-Friendly Options: Kid-friendly, but more suited to adults.
  • Seasonal & Specialty Offerings: Seasonal pastries and coffee blends.
  • Additional Features or Amenities: Pastry shop inside.
  • Insider Tips: Visit early for a peaceful experience.
  • Contact Info:
  • Website: Caffè Gilli
  • Instagram: Caffè Gilli
  • Facebook: Caffè Gilli

5. Shake Café

  • Location & Accessibility: Via del Corso 28r, multiple locations in Florence.
  • Opening Hours & Wait Time: 7:30 AM – 8 PM; short wait times even during peak hours.
  • Variety of Breakfast Options: Smoothie bowls, salads, oatmeal, cold-pressed juices.
  • Quality of Food: Organic, fresh, healthy options.
  • Ambiance & Atmosphere: Casual, modern, minimalist.
  • Pricing & Value for Money: €5 – €12; affordable and healthy.
  • Customer Service: Friendly, fast service.
  • Popularity & Local Reputation: Popular with health-conscious locals and tourists.
  • Special Dietary Options: Vegan, gluten-free, and dairy-free options.
  • Family-Friendly Options: Kid-friendly, healthy options for children.
  • Seasonal & Specialty Offerings: Seasonal smoothies and salads.
  • Additional Features or Amenities: Takeaway available.
  • Insider Tips: Try the green smoothie bowl for a light start to the day.
  • Contact Info:
  • Website: shakecafe.it
  • Instagram: Shake Café
  • Facebook: Shake Café Firenze

These top five breakfast spots offer something for every traveler in search of the best breakfast in Florence. From elegant cafés to casual health-focused eateries, you’ll find an option that suits your taste and style.

When looking for the best breakfast in Florence, you’ll find a variety of traditional Italian treats as well as international options to start your day right. Breakfast in Florence typically revolves around light, quick bites paired with expertly crafted coffee, but modern spots now offer a diverse range of choices. Here are some popular breakfast dishes you should try while in Florence:

 best breakfast in Florence

1. Cornetto

A staple of Italian breakfast, the cornetto is the local version of a croissant. Soft, slightly sweet, and often filled with cream, jam, or chocolate, it’s the perfect match for an espresso. You’ll find cornetti in almost every café across Florence, making it a quick and delicious breakfast option.

2. Cappuccino and Espresso

Italian breakfasts are incomplete without coffee. A creamy cappuccino or a strong espresso is a must-try when enjoying the best breakfast in Florence. Locals often pair their morning coffee with a pastry, making this combination a common sight in any café.

 best breakfast in Florence coffees

3. Pane e Marmellata (Bread and Jam)

For a simple yet classic breakfast, many Florentines enjoy fresh bread with marmalade or honey. This light meal is often accompanied by butter and served with tea or coffee. Some places offer artisanal jams made from seasonal fruits, adding a homemade touch to this traditional breakfast.

4. Pasticceria (Pastries)

Florentine pasticceria (pastries) are a breakfast highlight. Look out for local specialties like sfogliatella (a layered, crispy pastry) or bomboloni (Italian doughnuts). These sweet treats are typically enjoyed with coffee and can be found in most bakeries and cafés.

 best breakfast in Florence pastricceria

5. Schiacciata

If you prefer a savory breakfast, schiacciata (a Tuscan flatbread) is a great choice. Often filled with local meats like prosciutto or cheeses, it provides a hearty start to the day. Some cafés even offer more modern versions, including vegetarian fillings or truffle spreads.

6. Yogurt and Fresh Fruit

 best breakfast in Florence yogurt

For those looking for a lighter or healthier breakfast, many cafés and brunch spots in Florence now offer options like yogurt bowls topped with fresh fruit, granola, and honey. This is an ideal choice if you want something nutritious but still delicious.

7. Frittata

The frittata, an Italian-style omelette, is a great option for a more filling breakfast. Made with eggs, vegetables, and sometimes cheese, it’s a popular item on many breakfast menus in Florence, especially in cafés that cater to tourists or brunch seekers.

 best breakfast in Florence

International Breakfast Options

While traditional Italian breakfasts are light and simple, Florence also caters to international tastes. Many cafés now offer full brunch menus with options like eggs Benedict, pancakes, and avocado toast. Popular spots like Ditta Artigianale or Le Vespe Café offer a mix of local and international breakfast dishes, allowing you to enjoy the best breakfast in Florence no matter your preference.

FAQ Section

Here are some frequently asked questions about finding the best breakfast in Florence:

1. What is the typical breakfast in Florence?
A typical breakfast in Florence consists of a light meal, usually a cornetto (Italian croissant) paired with a cappuccino or espresso. Locals tend to have breakfast quickly at the bar, standing up, before heading to work.

2. Where can I find the best breakfast in Florence?
There are many excellent spots for the best breakfast in Florence, including popular cafés like Ditta Artigianale, La Ménagère, and Caffè Gilli. These places offer a range of options from traditional Italian breakfasts to full brunch menus.

3. Are there any vegan or gluten-free breakfast options in Florence?
Yes, several cafés in Florence offer vegan and gluten-free options. Places like Shake Café and Le Vespe Café are known for their extensive healthy breakfast menus that cater to special dietary needs, including vegan, vegetarian, and gluten-free choices.

4. What time do Florentine cafés open for breakfast?
Most cafés in Florence open early, around 7:30 AM or 8 AM, and serve breakfast until around 11 AM or noon. However, some places, especially those with brunch menus, stay open well into the afternoon.

5. Is breakfast in Florence expensive?
Breakfast in Florence can be very affordable, especially for a traditional Italian breakfast like coffee and a pastry, which usually costs between €2 and €5. Brunch spots or more tourist-focused cafés might charge higher prices, especially for international breakfast options, with meals ranging from €8 to €20.

6. Can I find full English or American-style breakfasts in Florence?
Yes, several cafés and restaurants offer international breakfast options, including American-style pancakes, eggs Benedict, and full English breakfasts. Popular places like Ditta Artigianale and Le Vespe Café are known for offering these types of dishes.

7. What are some kid-friendly breakfast spots in Florence?
Many cafés in Florence are family-friendly, offering kid-friendly options like pastries, fruit, and simple egg dishes. La Ménagère and Le Vespe Café are good choices if you’re looking for a relaxed atmosphere with a variety of options for both adults and children.

Conclusion

In conclusion, whether you prefer a traditional Italian pastry and cappuccino or a more modern and hearty brunch, you’ll find some of the best breakfast in Florence at these top spots. From cozy local cafés to trendy brunch destinations, the city offers a diverse range of options to satisfy your morning cravings. Be sure to explore different Neighbourhoods , try seasonal specialties, and take in the vibrant atmosphere that makes Florence’s breakfast scene so special. No matter where you choose to start your day, you’re sure to enjoy a memorable breakfast in this stunning city.