Where to Eat and Drink in Florence, with or without a Line. (Episode II)
Florence is full of flavor — and full of lines. But while some places are worth the wait, many of the city’s best bites don’t need one. In this guide, we explore where to eat and drink in Florence without the stress: no long waits, no overhyped traps, just good food, great wine, and the kind of spots locals actually return to.
From cafés to rooftops, from bollicine to Negroni, here’s how to taste the real Florence — with or without a queue.
Where to eat and drink in Florence without the stress
Terraces and Rooftop Bars
Long queues
La Terrazza Rooftop Bar
Overlooking the Ponte Vecchio with cocktails to match.
Verdict: Arrive early or embrace the line.
Moderate queues
Empireo Rooftop (Plaza Hotel Lucchesi)
River views, poolside glam, and a golden-hour crowd.
Verdict: Worth the elevator ride. Florence Factory fav spot.
No queue
La Leggenda dei Frati
Art meets cuisine in the hills.
Verdict: Come for lunch and stay for the view.
Cafés
Long queues
Caffè Gilli
Historic, ornate, central.
Verdict: For lovers of elegance and tradition.
Moderate queues
Ditta Artigianale
Specialty coffee, creative brunch, and a steady buzz. At Florence Factory, we start our day with a coffee from Ditta Artigianale on Via dei Neri — just a few steps from our shop.
Verdict: A modern caffeine temple.
No queue
La Ménagère
Coffee, flowers, and quiet corners.
Verdict: Come for breakfast, stay for beauty.
Wine Bars / Enoteche
Long queues
Le Botteghe di Donatello
Steps from the Duomo, always busy, always central. Classic Tuscan wines, generous plates, and prime people-watching.
Verdict: Crowded, yes — but the view (and the glass) deliver.
Moderate queues
La Volpe e l’Uva
A hidden spot near Ponte Vecchio with curated wines and simple pairings.
Verdict: Honest, delicious, and smart. We love it.
No queue
Il Santino
Tiny, stylish, always good.
Verdict: Where wine meets quiet elegance.
Whether you’re looking for the best rooftop in Florence, a great café without the crowd, or a enoteca that locals keep to themselves, Florence Factory has mapped it out for you.
And if you're nearby, stop by our shop in via dei Neri 6/8 R — no queue required. Or visit florencefactory.com for more curated tips and handmade finds worth taking home.