Fuel Up at Shake Cafe

Shake Cafe is a trendy spot with a bright space and a relaxing courtyard. With five locations in Florence, I visited their flagship store on Via Cavour, just a stone’s throw away from the Accademia Gallery, which houses Michelangelo’s David. It’s the perfect place to stop by after visiting the museum.

The extensive menu offers freshly squeezed juices and smoothies, tea and coffee, freshly baked pastries, a brunch menu, wraps, burgers, sandwiches, bagels, and more. There are also vegan and gluten-free options.

We enjoyed a custard donut, a bottle of kombucha, a cappuccino, and two refreshing juices: I AM STRONG (carrot, orange, lemon, ginger) and DETOX (celery, fennel, spinach, kale, parsley, apple, lemon, ginger).

Each item was delicious, especially the vibrant and refreshing juices. Shake Cafe is a perfect spot for a nutritious meal or a quick snack in a welcoming atmosphere.

Shake Cafe (Via Cavour)

Website: http://www.shakecafe.bio/?lang=it
Telephone: +390550515418
Opening hours:
Mondays to Saturdays 7:00 a.m. – 19:30 p.m.
Sundays 8:00 a.m. – 19:30 p.m.

Address: Via Camillo Cavour, 67/69R, 50121 Firenze FI, Italy

Sweet Delights at Rivoire

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Rivoire, a historic chocolate shop founded in 1872 in the heart of Florence’s Piazza della Signoria, offers a delectable selection of chocolates and tantalizing Italian pastries and sweets. Retaining its 19th-century charm, the shop features marbled tables and pink leather accent chairs amidst artwork adorning the dining hall. While seated in the outdoor area, guests can enjoy views of the Palazzo Vecchio and the Fountain of Neptune.

The cafe also offers a lovely breakfast menu featuring omelets, sandwiches, a diverse selection of coffees and teas, and gluten-free tarts for those with dietary restrictions. During my visit, I indulged in yogurt with fresh berries, a sumptuous hot chocolate topped with cream, and a decadent tiramisu.

Notably, Rivoire still crafts its signature hot chocolate according to a secret recipe dating back 150 years, offering a thick, creamy, and indulgent experience. As for the tiramisu, it was my first taste of this classic dessert in Italy, and it was nothing short of divine—exuding delicate bitterness, creamy richness, and just the right amount of sweetness.

Rivoire

Website: https://rivoire.it/
Opening hours: Mondays to Sundays 7:30 a.m. – 23:30 p.m.
Telephone: +39055214412
Address: P.za della Signoria, 5/R, 50122 Firenze FI, Italy

Classic American Breakfast in Florence

Rooster is a cozy café nestled in the heart of Florence, right next to Museo di Palazzo Davanzati. This is the spot for you if you’re craving a change from the usual Italian breakfast scene. This rustic cafe serves classic American breakfasts such as pancakes, chicken and waffles, and bagels.

Being an early bird, I reached the café before it opened, finding it blissfully quiet. Given its reputation for getting crowded, I advise coming early in the morning to avoid the crowd.

As for the experience, the food and drinks were amazing. However, what truly impressed me was the outstanding service. The staff members are exceptionally friendly, welcoming, and relaxed, always sporting bright smiles that add to the warm ambiance of the café.

Basil Detox

(Basil, celery, cucumber, apple, lemon, ginger, topped with mint and chia seeds)

Heart Attack

(Espresso, milk, chocolate, coffee syrup, topped with whipped cream)

Chicken and waffles

Whenever chicken and waffles are an option, I’m all over it! They’re my go-to choice.

The chicken was tender on the inside with a crispy, well-seasoned coating on the outside. It’s fried to golden perfection, offering a satisfying crunch with each bite. The waffle was light with a slightly crisp edge.

Rooster Cafe Firenze

Website: https://www.roostercafefirenze.com/
Opening hours:

Sunday	9 am–9 pm
Monday	Closed
Tuesday	9 am–9 pm
Wednesday	9 am–9 pm
Thursday	9 am–9 pm
Friday	9 am–11 pm
Saturday	9 am–11 pm

Telephone: +390552645006
Address: Via Porta Rossa, 63R, 50123 Firenze FI, Italy

Ditta Riva D’Arno

Located next to the Ponte alla Carraia, this café stands out as an early riser, welcoming guests from 8 am onwards. Among its three other branches in Florence, this particular café stands out with its vibrant, bright-colored mural adorning the walls and floor, infusing the space with vibrant energy.

The cafe offers an extensive selection of coffee and homemade pastries, including both sweet and savory options like croissants, cinnamon rolls, cakes, and more.

I ordered a flat white, Margarita focaccia, and ham and cheese croissant. While the ambiance may impress, the coffee leaves something to be desired, bearing a disappointing sour aftertaste. On a brighter note, the margarita focaccia and croissant with ham and cheese fare well, complemented by friendly service.

Ditta Riva D’Arno

Website: https://www.menudittaartigianale.com/
Telephone: +39 0553874550
Opening hours: 8:00 a.m. – 19:00 p.m. Daily
Address: Via Lungarno Soderini 7R – Firenze, IT

All’Antico Vinaio

All’Antico Vinaio is an institution in Florence known for its amazing schiacciata sandwiches. It is one of the city’s premier street foods and is an absolute must-try for anyone exploring the city.

During my visit in the off-peak season, I was fortunate to find a manageable line. To expedite the process, the staff cleverly encouraged customers to scan a QR code for the menu, which helped keep things moving smoothly.

Observing the sandwich being prepared right in front of me was quite satisfying. I opted for the Vegetariana 3 (featuring Gorgonzola, courgettes, sun-dried tomatoes, and rocket leaves) and the La Numero 1 (roast suckling pig, cream of onion, and roast potato cream), which cost € 16 each. I was treated to generous portions brimming with fresh, good-quality ingredients. The succulent roast suckling pig paired beautifully with the sweet onion cream, further elevating the experience.

This sandwich definitely ranks among the most exceptional and unforgettable I’ve ever tasted.

All’Antico Vinaio

Website: https://www.allanticovinaio.com/
Opening hours: Daily 10:00 a.m. – 22:00 p.m.

Main branch
Via dei Neri, 65r, 50122 Firenze FI, Italy

Piazza San Marco branch
Via Ricasoli, 121r, 50121 Firenze FI, Italy