What’s the first thing to try in Italy? Coffee!
When arriving in Italy, coffee should be the very first thing you try. A sharp shot of espresso served in a tiny white tazzina is key to living the Italian way. There are a variety of cafes available to Florentines, including traditional bars, strictly coffee shops, and stops for the popular Western brunch. One necessity that many study abroad students require in Florence is sitting in a cafe to work – an idea that is completely unheard of here. This routine fills a busy day more than going to a cramped library; still, there are comfortable, homework-friendly cafes dispersed throughout Florence. Navigating the city center to find a diverse set of cafes is not easy. With the help of these six carefully chosen suggestions, you can successfully find your way around Florence’s coffee hub. The international, work-friendly destinations:
Modern Cafes in Florence
Ditta Artigianale & Hario Cafe
Located in the busy Sant’Ambrogio neighborhood, Ditta Artigianale & Hario Cafe offers the classic, sit-down-with-your-laptop environment – essential for a Sunday afternoon filled with schoolwork. The Florence-based chain is also found in four other spots across the city center. With its array of fresh pastries, miscellaneous beverage menus, and delicious brunch options, this cafe caters well to coffee lovers and brunch enthusiasts. As described on their website, Ditta Artigianale envisions itself as, “an Italian coffee roaster with an international vision,” as they also sell coffee and tea blends from around the world. Their coffee beans come in travel-sized packages from various countries, including Costa Rica, Ethiopia, and Colombia. The micro-roastery’s cultural immersion efforts make it unique to Florence while celebrating the country’s dedication to producing high-quality coffee.
Via Giosuè Carducci, 2/4 r, 50121, Firenze FI
Everyday 7:30 am – 12 am
SimBIOsi
Situated in the bustling San Lorenzo district and just down the block from SRISA San Gallo Campus, SimBIOsi’s eclectic style is popular amongst young people, specifically American study-abroad students. Originally established as a pizzeria, SimBIOsi has expanded its menu over the years. They serve everything from specialty coffee and fresh-baked goods to their sizable oven-cooked pizza. Organized in a fancy dining table style, it almost does not seem like the place is a cafe at all. SimBIOsi cares for all customers, with or without homework, and produces a memorable eating experience. You should check out their vibrant cafe before the noon lunch crowd arrives.
Via de’ Ginori 58r/60r, 50123, Firenze Fl
Everyday 8 am – 8 pm
Melaleuca
Melaleuca, an Australian and American-owned breakfast and coffee shop, sits alongside the Arno River. Sitting directly in front of you are the reputable, heart-warming plates of cinnamon buns – you can faintly smell the freshly baked dough with its sweet frosting as you walk through the front entrance. Melaleuca is known to travelers and residents for its international-inspired brunch menu. From a bowl of the ‘nudja chili eggs to the hefty American-sized breakfast bagel options, Melaleuca is guaranteed to serve a nutritious and nostalgic brunch. The shop’s outdoor seating is most enjoyable on a sunny day. You can even take your cafe goodies to-go and sit on the river’s edge, which may be preferable as Melaleuca tends to stay crowded throughout the morning. Make sure to check out Melaleuca at the peak of morning or towards the late afternoon – the queue can become quite long around brunch time.
Lungarno delle Grazie, 18, 50122, Firenze Fl
Mon – Fri 7:30 am – 4 pm, Sat & Sun 8 am – 4 pm
The Traditional Italian Bars in Florence
Cibreo Cafe
If you are looking for the traditional Florentine Cafe experience, Cibreo is the quintessential place to go. What is interesting about this place is that four individualized spots all located near one another – the cafe, trattoria, and two different ristorantes – make Cibro a must-see. At Cibreo, you can eat your entire days meals – a full breakfast, lunch, aperitivo, and late-evening dinner. Here, you will find your food being made right at your fingertips, making that homey feeling more present. Cibreo’s history in Florence makes it authentic – it was founded in 1979 and has stayed in the Sant’Ambrogio neighborhood for decades. According to Fabio Picchi, the founder of Cibreo, the business represents the passion of Florentine cuisine and celebrates Florentine traditions. Their food pairings for the aperitivo, such as pizzas, olives, and focaccia, go well with a cold spritz or glass of wine.
Via Andrea del Verrocchio, 5r, 50122, Firenze Fl
Everyday 9 am – 12 am
NAB
Unlike most traditional bars, NAB’s friendly and welcoming nature, especially towards non-Italians, attracts many college students, older locals, and other visitors. If there is one characteristic about this cafe that is necessary to highlight, it is their hospitality. The baristas at NAB are some of the friendliest people I have encountered while buying my semi-daily cup of coffee. They are consistently nice to each customer, no matter what language they speak. If you are nervous about ordering breakfast or a to-go cup of coffee for the first time, NAB is the perfect place to try.
Fun fact: Nab is located next to SRISA San Gallo Campus so you can get your coffee fix any time!
Via Ventisette Aprile, 28 R, 50129, Firenze Fl
Everyday 7 am – 10 pm
Cafe
Nestled along a busy street you will find Il Sole Cafe. This traditional bar has limited seating but a plentiful menu with priced coffee beverages and pastries. At Il Sole Cafe, you are guaranteed a tasty cappuccino or americano alongside a soft croissant that is served with love. This location, following a complete breakfast, also serves cocktails and other alcoholic beverages for aperitivo hours. Despite its simplicity, Cafe Il Sole does the job of a quick and easy-going coffee stop.
Via Guelfa, 25, 50129, Firenze Fl
Tues – Sun 6:30 am – 9 pm, Closed Mon
Written by Spring 2024 student Lauren Aguila
Prepared for website by Summer 2025 student Marina Hishikawa