The five oldest trattorias in Florence A guide to discovering the restaurants that carry on the local culinary tradition

The municipal administration of Florence has long been making efforts to reduce the negative effects of mass tourism in the historic center of the Tuscan capital. In 2024, for example, the opening of new restaurants was restricted in 21 streets of the city in order to preserve historic venues and prevent them from facing competition from chains mainly targeting tourists.

The streets included in the regulation largely correspond to the area of Florence currently designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Often, places of historical, cultural, and environmental interest included in this list - which aims to encourage their protection and preservation - end up becoming tourist attractions, with all the consequences this implies for local residents.

When visiting highly popular destinations such as Florence, it becomes increasingly important to develop greater awareness of the importance of sustainable travel, not only from an environmental point of view. In this sense, depending on the type of trip planned, a good option is to eat in the city’s historic osterias, which are often family-run and independent from large chains, thus helping support the local economy. Here are the five oldest trattorias in the Tuscan capital.

Trattoria Palle d’Oro

Among the historic trattorias of Florence, Palle d’Oro is deeply tied to the city’s culinary tradition. For nearly a century, the venue has been managed by the same family, now in its fourth generation, a factor that has made it a key reference point in Florence’s gastronomic scene. The atmosphere remains highly authentic. Trattoria Palle d’Oro is a concrete example of how the city’s culinary traditions have been successfully passed down over time.

Trattoria Sabatino

Trattoria Sabatino was originally part of an ancient convent; later it became a canteen frequented by the residents of the San Frediano district of Florence. Since 1956, the Buccini family has managed the restaurant - today considered one of the places that best represents the city’s popular identity. Its long history makes it an essential stop for those who want to discover traditional Florentine cuisine away from the most tourist-heavy routes.

Trattoria Mario

Trattoria Mario is one of the most well-known names in Florentine gastronomic tradition. Opened in 1953, it is located inside a 16th-century building that once housed the stables of Palazzo Alessandri, a notable historic building in central Florence. Before becoming a proper trattoria, the venue mainly operated as a wine shop. The cuisine of Trattoria Mario combines local tradition and authenticity, making it one of the most beloved restaurants in Florence.

La Bussola

Opened in 1960, La Bussola has long been a landmark in Florence’s historic center, frequented from the very beginning by both residents and tourists. Its strategic location, long-standing presence, and quality cuisine have strengthened its reputation over time: today it remains highly appreciated, successfully blending the heritage of Tuscan cuisine with a more contemporary approach to dining.

Trattoria Sostanza

Founded in 1869, Trattoria Sostanza is one of the longest-running establishments in the city and a true institution in Florence. Originally opened as an osteria and food shop, it has gone through more than a century and a half of history while preserving much of its original atmosphere. The intimate spaces and convivial setup create an environment that reflects Florentine culinary tradition. For many enthusiasts, it is one of the most authentic trattorias in Florence, also because it does not follow current culinary trends.