“Unmissable Bars and Bakeries to Brighten Your Morning”
Florence has some fantastic spots for breakfast, whether you’re after a traditional Italian start or a more substantial brunch. Here are some of the best bars and bakeries in the city center that are sure to brighten your morning:
1. Caffè Gilli
Location: Piazza della Repubblica
Highlights: Gilli’s breakfast includes flaky, buttery cornettos (Italian croissants), classic cappuccinos, and a variety of pastries. The historical setting and elegant ambiance make for a memorable morning, especially if you enjoy people-watching in the heart of Florence.
2. Ditta Artigianale
Location: Via dello Sprone and other locations
Highlights: Known for their specialty coffee, Ditta Artigianale also serves delicious breakfast options, including avocado toast, scrambled eggs, and pastries. It’s a modern, cozy place with a more international breakfast menu, ideal for coffee enthusiasts.
3. Caffè Libertà
Location: Piazza della Libertà
Highlights: A local favorite for traditional Italian breakfast, Caffè Libertà offers freshly baked pastries, such as croissants filled with pistachio cream, marmalade, or chocolate. Their cappuccinos are smooth and creamy, and the café’s warm, unpretentious vibe is perfect for a relaxed start to the day.
4. La Ménagère
Location: Via de’ Ginori
Highlights: This trendy café offers breakfast dishes with an international twist, like pancakes, omelets, and smoothie bowls, alongside classic Italian pastries. With its chic, floral décor, La Ménagère is a beautiful spot to ease into the morning.
5. Pasticceria Nencioni
Location: Borgo degli Albizi
Highlights: A classic pastry shop known for its authentic Florentine treats. Their schiacciata alla Fiorentina, a soft, powdered-sugar-covered cake, is a must-try, as are their maritozzi (sweet buns filled with cream). Pair one of these with a cappuccino for a perfect Italian breakfast.
6. Caffè Piansa
Location: Via Gioberti (near Piazza Beccaria)
Highlights: A little outside the immediate city center but worth the visit, Caffè Piansa specializes in high-quality coffee and offers a variety of pastries and breakfast bites. The coffee is expertly brewed, making it a favorite among locals who know their coffee.
7. Paszkowski
Location: Piazza della Repubblica
Highlights: Known for its pastries and savory items, Paszkowski is perfect for a traditional Italian breakfast of espresso and a cornetto. The luxurious, vintage interior adds charm, and the terrace provides a lovely place to enjoy the morning sun.
8. Il Barretto
Location: Via del Proconsolo
Highlights: This small café is a hidden gem, offering freshly baked pastries and excellent coffee. They have a friendly, local vibe, and their cornettos are some of the best in the city.
9. Ristorante Caffè delle Carrozze
Location: Piazza del Pesce (near Ponte Vecchio)
Highlights: This café offers traditional Italian breakfast pastries, as well as some more filling breakfast options. Enjoy a pastry with a view of the Ponte Vecchio and the Arno River—it’s a serene way to start the day.
10. Robiglio
Location: Via dei Tosinghi and other locations
Highlights: Robiglio is a classic Florentine bakery known for its pastries and sweet treats. Their sfoglia alla crema (custard-filled puff pastry) and a frothy cappuccino make a delightful, classic Italian breakfast.
11. Shake Café
Location: Multiple locations, including Via del Corso
Highlights: Known for its healthier breakfast options, Shake Café offers smoothie bowls, fresh juices, yogurt with granola, and vegan pastries, alongside good coffee. It’s a nice option for those looking for something lighter and fresh.
Each of these spots offers something unique, from artisanal coffee and traditional pastries to more substantial breakfast options with international flavors. Enjoy discovering your favorite breakfast nook in Florence!