The best historic holes in Florence

Where to taste authentic Florentine gastronomic tradition

An all-Florentine tradition is that of the 'buche', cosy and characteristic restaurants created in the cellars of ancient palazzi, where, among excellent wines, succulent steaks, truffles, mushrooms and other delicacies, the flavours of the rich Tuscan gastronomy explode.

If you are looking for the best trattorias in town, click here! While to taste the best Florentine steak, don't miss these places! Here, instead, a focus on the best restaurants in town!

Buca Lapi
Via del Trebbio, 1/r
ph. +39 055 213768

In the wine cellar of Palazzo Antinori, the authentic aromas and flavours of home-made recipes can be found in the handmade potato tortelli served with butter and sage, in a sumptuous and impeccable Florentine steak and in the fried dishes. Here the field salad is picked every morning at dawn by a trusted farmer.

Buca dell’Orafo
Via dei Girolami, 28/r
ph. +39 055 213619

A cantinetta just a breath away from Ponte Vecchio, with no more than a dozen tables. It is worth starting with a Tuscan hors d'oeuvre of crostini and cured meats, very good, if it is on the menu continue with the paglia e fieno alla boscaiola, then opt for a bistecca alla fiorentina or, alternatively, a pork arista with potatoes.

Buca Mario
Piazza degli Ottaviani, 16/r
ph. +39 055 214179

In the cellars of Palazzo Niccolini, Buca Mario has a special feature: a private room with an exit at the back. As for the food, the artichoke flan is excellent, as is the grilled steak washed down with a good vintage Chianti, to end on a high note with Cantuccini and Vin Santo.

Buca Niccolini
via Ricasoli, 5/7r
ph. +39 055 292 124

The Buca Niccolini Restaurant is a true landmark in the heart of Florence, a restaurant with a romantic atmosphere characterised by an ancient tradition linked to culture and art. Here past and present meet and give life to dishes with authentic flavours, to be combined with a wide selection of quality wines. Once through the front door, no one will be able to forget the sublime fragrance of traditional Florentine aromas.

Buca San Giovanni
Piazza di San Giovanni, 8
ph. +39 055 287612

Founded as the ancient sacristy of the nearby Baptistery of San Giovanni, the ancient cathedral of Florence before Santa Reparata was built, it was also the secret place of initiation of the Rosa Croce Freemasons, the cradle of libertarian thought and later the meeting place of the post-theatre frequented by famous people. Under its ancient vaults, even today there are illustrious guests passing through who seek, in the menu and atmosphere of the restaurant, the pleasure of an exquisite and cheerful evening. The restaurant offers ample opportunity to enjoy typical Florentine dishes and is a reference point in the Italian gastronomic scene.