In a city of 365,744 people, 90.45 percent of the population of Florence is Italian. An estimated 60,000 Chinese live in the city. The largest immigrant groups come from other European countries, mostly from Albania and Romania, at 3.52 percent of the population. Next are people from East Asia, mostly Chinese and Filipino, at 2.17 percent, the Americas at 1.41 percent, and North Africa (mostly Moroccan) at 0.9 percent of the population. Since Florence is home to many different cultures, it is only fitting to discuss the best non-Italian food in Florence.
When you're feeling homesick, you'll find some of the best cupcakes and bagels in town at Mama's. The friendly and relaxed atmosphere invites you to hang out in the beautiful new loggia, drink an American coffee (only €1 and refillable!), and eat a freshly baked bagel with cream. Mama's American-style specialties include club and vegetable sandwiches, quiches, brownies, english muffins, chocolate chip cookies and cheese cake. Prices range from €2.50 for a bagel with cream cheese, to €4-5 for a sandwich on a bagel or baguette. The atmosphere is incredibly friendly – so bring your school work and linger for a couple of hours, they won’t mind! Mama’s is located steps away from Piazza Santo Spirito on via della Chiesa, 34/r - 50125 Firenze. Mon-Fri: 8am - 5pm, Sat: 9am - 3pm, Sun: closed.
One of the most popular amongst Florentines is Dionisio at Via San Gallo, 16. This Greek restaurant serves traditional food that is said to be unrivaled in the city. Dionisio is popular so make a reservation, 055.217882. Another great restaurant is Salamanca - an excellent Spanish Tapas bar (it turns into a discoteca after 10!) on Via Ghibellina 84. Their enormous menu has small plates, ceviches, paellas, and of course sangria. Prices are reasonable; meals are typically priced under €10.
For a choice off the beaten path try Ruth's, located down the the street from the synogogue on Via Luigi Carlo Farini 2a. This Kosher restaurant offers both Jewish and Tuscan plates. Vegetarians can find a plethora of delicious dishes like couscous and hummus but the restaurant also serves a delicious array of salmon dishes for the meat eaters. Also on Friday a special Shabbos meal is offered by reservation only.
When discussing non-Italian food in Florence, it is necessary to mention Doner Kebab. Doner Kebab’s are the gyros of America. Kebab’s are a delicious late night treat, as most Doner Kebab establishment’s are open late to serve the disco-going students. Our favorite Doner Kebab restaurant is Istanbul Kebab, located across from Red Garter (a discoteca) on Via de’ Benci. A favorite Chinese food establishment is Hong Kong on Via de’ Servi.
Tijuana restaurant, located at Via Ghibellina 156/r has a happy hour every day from 7-8pm where every drink is half price (€3.80). At Tijuana, the drink menu is just as long as the food menu. Here, you can try margaritas in nine different flavors, frozen or on the rocks. They also offer a variety of Caipiroska’s, which are drinks made with vodka, lime, and a smashed fruit of your choice - delicious! Food is reasonably priced, with most meals costing less than €10. We recommend the nachos, a tasty concoction of nacho chips, cheese, and three toppings of your choice! If you plan on visiting Tijuana for happy hour during the weekend, be sure to make a reservation, either by phone, 055 2341330, or their website http://www.tijuanaristorante.it/home.html. We hope this post helps you to find some of the food that you are used to at home, while enjoying the cultural diversity of Firenze. Enjoy!
