The 10 Best Restaurants In Santa Croce Florence

While the protagonist of Santa Croce is its stunning Franciscan basilica, there are numerous culinary gems scattered around the quarter, demanding attention. With fresh, high quality ingredients on offer at the nearby Sant’Ambrogio market and a wealth of historical architecture as a backdrop, this neighborhood has all the tools to be a culinary paradise. The following list explores some of the area’s top restaurants.

1. Finisterrae

typical italian pizza Napoli with anchovies and Mozzarella cheese baked in traditional wood-fired oven on plate in local restaurant in Lombardy

Finisterrae

2. La Giostra

Restaurant, Italian, Mediterranean, Vegetarian, Vegan

La Giostra was founded by Dimitri Kunz, a prince of the House of Habsburg-Lorraine with a passion for gastronomy. The restaurant’s motto ‘In Food We Trust’ conveys the spirit which is fostered there. As the business is passed from generation to generation within this noble family, the culinary magic is not lost but is shared with the growing number of patrons. An impressive display of wine bottles lines the walls becoming a key feature of the decor, transmitting the sense of reverence that the family holds for high quality food and drink.

3. I Ghibellini

I Ghibellini

Courtesy of I Ghibellini | Courtesy of I Ghibellini

4. Simon Boccanegra

Bar, Restaurant, Italian

Boccanegra is unique in that it offers three diverse dining experiences from which to choose. The elegant restaurant attracts a classy clientele for its attention to detail in the elaboration and presentation of high-quality Mediterranean dishes. A more informal atmosphere can be found in the wine bar which serves a selection of the regional antipasti including cured meats and cheeses. For pizzas, head to the intimate wine cellar. Common to the three environments is the professional and friendly staff who are particularly helpful when it comes to selecting the right wine for your meal.

5. Brac

Restaurant, Italian, Mediterranean, Vegetarian, Vegan

Creamy Tuscan chicken with sun dried tomatoes, spinach and parmesan

Artsy types should head to Brac where a passion for culture is married together with a love of good food in this bookshop-restaurant. Specializing in vegetarian and vegan dishes, this trendy haunt stands out in the home city of the Florentine steak. Their menu showcases the delicious natural ingredients yielded by the Tuscan landscape. The decor creates bohemian vibes and a key feature is the shredded fabric which hangs over the courtyard, adding a splash of color to al fresco dining.

6. Trattoria Cibrèo

Market, Restaurant, Italian

Trattoria Cibrèo, known by the locals as Cibreino, is one of the three establishments which makes up this Florentine institution. Serving the same high quality ingredients as its more formal counterpart, Cibrèo Restaurant, but for lower prices and in a relaxed atmosphere, this rustic establishment is worth a visit. Pasta and pizza are left off the menu so the spotlight can be shone on lesser-known Italian delicacies. Given that the menu reflects the daily market stock, rather than providing a physical list, servers will recite options to diners, an impressive feat which not only confirms the freshness of the ingredients but is also an important feature of their first class customer service.

7. Enoteca Pinchiorri

Enoteca Pinchiorri

Courtesy of Enoteca Pinchiorri | Courtesy of Enoteca Pinchiorri

8. Osteria De’Benci

Bistecca alla Fiorentina. Cooked grilled T-bone steak.. Image shot 08/2008. Exact date unknown.

Osteria De’Benci

9. Antica Macelleria Falorni

Butcher, Restaurant, Italian

Antica Macelleria Falorni is a gem in the Florentine culinary scene, offering the unique experience of dining in a butcher’s shop. Most restaurants in the area boast locally sourced ingredients, but the freshness at this restaurant is guaranteed by the fact that their produce comes straight from their own farm just outside the city. Their cheese cave is a foodie’s dream and the bonus of this restaurant’s double function is that you can take some home with you. Their wine vending machine is an entertaining way of sampling a selection of regional wine.

10. Boccadama

Bar, Restaurant, Italian

Boccadama Restaurant Terrace; Piazza di Santa Croce Square, Florence; Italy

Dine in this cozy renaissance palazzo or bag a table on the terrace of Piazza Santa Croce for spectacular views of the basilica. Either way, Boccadama offers the ideal setting for an authentic Tuscan dining experience. The menu showcases the delights of the regional cuisine. Considering that this restaurant began its days as an enoteca, a bar specializing in wine, the meals are complemented by a selection of regional beverages.

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