All'Antico Vinaio

Always busy, always fast—this spot near the heart of Florence is known for its huge schiacciata sandwiches stuffed with local meats, cheeses, and whatever else they’re slicing that day. It’s not exactly hidden anymore, but the quality’s still there: fresh ingredients, generous portions, and quick service. Good for a casual lunch, especially if you’re hungry and don’t mind a short wait.

• Web:

  www.allanticovinaio.com

• Address:

  Via dei Neri 65/R, Florence

• Phone:

  +39 055 238 2723

• Opening hours:

  Daily 10am–10pm

Da Delfina

Set in an old stone farmhouse near Carmignano, Da Delfina is a proper sit-down spot with views that do half the talking, especially from the terrace. The food sticks close to Tuscan tradition, done well but without showing off. Expect things like handmade pasta, grilled meats, and whatever’s in season. It’s a bit more refined than your average trattoria, but still relaxed.

• Web:

  www.instagram.com/dadelfina

• Address:

  Via della Chiesa, 1, Artimino

• Phone:

  +39 055 871 8074

Dopolavoro La Foce

Originally built in 1939 for workers on the La Foce estate, this place has had a smart refresh but kept its laid-back feel. You can grab a quick bite—like a bico (somewhere between focaccia and flatbread) or a proper panino—or sit down for a longer meal with seasonal dishes, local meat, and a decent wine list. There’s a terrace with a view of the Val d’Orcia and Lucciola Bella’s cypress trees. If you’re around on a Wednesday or weekend, pair it with a visit to the gardens at La Foce.

• Web:

  www.dopolavorolafoce.it/en

• E-mail:

  info@dopolavorolafoce.it

• Address:

  Strada della Vittoria, 90, Pienza

• Phone:

  +39 0578 754025

• Opening hours:

  Mon–Fri noon–3pm / 7pm–10pm; Sat & Sun noon–10pm

GUStO al 129

Gusto al 129 is one of those places that makes you get why Italy takes its pizza so seriously. They’ve got all the classics, but what really stands out are the more creative combinations the owners come up with—they’re not afraid to experiment, and it works.

• Web:

  www.instagram.com/gustoal129

• E-mail:

  info@gustoal129.it

• Address:

  Via Ettore Sighieri, 5, Pisa

• Phone:

  +39 050 620 2097

• Opening hours:

  Mon–Sat 7pm–10:30pm, Sun closed

Il canto del maggio

If you encounter Il Canto del Maggio by chance while strolling around the beautiful Tuscan countryside, you might think for a second that it is a mirage. The settings are just too perfect: an old farm renovated with taste, adjacent to a charming swimming pool surrounded by canopy beds whose veils are softly animated by the wind, right in the middle of the vineyards. The cuisine, a melange of Arezzo's, Siena's and Florence's specialities, is just as worthy.

• Web:

  www.cantodelmaggio.com

• Address:

  Via della Penna Alta, 30/d, Terranuova Bracciolini

• Phone:

  +39 333 688 5906

Il Falconiere

This one-Michelin-star spot in the Chiana Valley feels like a step up without being stuffy. There’s a terrace with views over the Chianti hills, and the food takes local ingredients and adds a creative twist. If you’re into beef, don’t miss the Chianina battuta—it’s the kind of dish that leaves an impression.

• Web:

  www.ilfalconiere.it

• E-mail:

  info@ilfalconiere.it

• Address:

  Località San Martino Bocena, 370, Cortona

• Phone:

  +39 0575 612679

Archea Brewery

Don’t let the unassuming exterior fool you—Archea Brewery is one of Florence’s favourite spots for craft beer lovers. With a rotating selection of Italian and international brews on tap, the bar draws a mix of regulars and curious travellers. It’s casual, welcoming, and all about the beer, which speaks for itself.

• Web:

  www.archeapub.com

• Address:

  Via dei Serragli, 44, Florence

• Phone:

  +39 328 425 0315

• Opening hours:

  Sun–Thu 6pm–1am, Fri & Sat 6pm–2am

Bar Impero

From morning espresso to late-night drinks, Bar Impero is a lively all-day spot in the heart of Siena. Sleek and contemporary, it’s a favourite among locals for both its coffee and cocktails—not to mention the tempting pastries and desserts. Whether you’re after a quick nightcap or a relaxed post-dinner treat, it’s an easy choice.

• Web:

  www.barimperosiena.com

• Address:

  12, Viale Vittorio Emanuele II, 10, Siena

• Phone:

  +39 0577 574936

• Opening hours:

  Daily 7am–midnight

Barkollo winepub

In the heart of Porto Azzurro on Elba Island, Barkollo has carved out its own niche by blending the relaxed vibe of a pub with the sophistication of a wine bar—hence the name 'Winepub'. The result is a warm, welcoming spot where you can enjoy a glass of wine or craft beer alongside tasty small plates, paninis, or even a full meal.

• Web:

  www.barkollowinepub.com

• Address:

  Via Felice Cavallotti, 13, Porto Azzurro

• Phone:

  +39 375 675 0617

• Opening hours:

  Daily 5pm–2am

Beach Club Versilia

What’s better than a beach club to enjoy a hot Tuscan summer? Not much, really. Beach Club Versilia might be a bit on the pricey side, but the stunning setting makes it worth it. The good news? It’s open all year round, serving coffee, drinks, and food from morning until late night (or early morning, depending on your vibe). Expect chic cocktails, a bistro-style menu, DJ sets, and a stylish deck with loungers right on the sand.

• Web:

  www.beachclubversilia.it

• E-mail:

  info@beachclubversilia.it

• Address:

  Viale IV Novembre, 18, Cinquale

• Phone:

  +39 0585 807876

Bistrot Cafè 19.26 Firenze

If you're in the mood for a quiet evening with friends or a romantic moment with your other half, Bistrot Cafè 19.26 sets the tone with its cosy cushions, low lighting and relaxed atmosphere. This café-meets-wine-bar is great for a break any time of day, whether you're stopping in for an aperitif or sipping a glass of Italian wine to the sound of live music.

• Web:

  https://cafe1926firenze.com

• E-mail:

  info@cafe1926firenze.com

• Address:

  Via Giovan Battista Niccolini, 30/R, Florence

• Phone:

  +39 055 234 6296

El Curandero

Tucked just a short stroll from the beach on Elba Island, El Curandero is a breezy, welcoming spot that keeps things playful and fresh. Cocktails come with quirky names and are packed with seasonal fruit, served up by a cheerful team that clearly enjoys what they do.

• Address:

  Via Bettino Ricasoli, 24, Porto Azzurro, Elba

• Phone:

  +39 0565 95588

Artigiani Gelateria

If gelato’s on your list (and let’s be honest, it should be), Artigiani Gelateria is a great pick. Everything’s artisanal, the flavours rotate often, and they do a few extras like ice cream cakes if you’re feeling adventurous.

• Address:

  Via Francesco Petrarca, 28, Campi Bisenzio

• Phone:

  +39 339 213 0513

Buccellato Taddeucci

This long-running bakery in Lucca is best known for its buccellato—a sweet, anise-flavoured bread that’s been made here for generations. It’s still the house speciality, but you’ll also find good coffee, panforte, biscotti, and other Tuscan treats.

• Web:

  www.buccellatotaddeucci.it

• Address:

  Piazza San Michele, 34, Lucca

• Phone:

  +39 0583 494933

• Opening hours:

  Sun–Fri 8am–8pm, Sat 8:30am–9pm

Caffè Paszkowski

This historic café on Piazza della Repubblica might look a bit grand, but it’s still very much a local spot. The vibe’s old-school—marble counters, suited waiters, and live piano in the evenings. Come for a proper cup of coffee, stay for a light lunch or a drink on the terrace. Prices match the setting, but it’s a nice spot to sit for a while.

• Web:

  www.caffepaszkowski.com/en

• Address:

  Piazza della Repubblica, 6 , Florence

• Phone:

  +39 055 210236

• Opening hours:

  Sun–Fri 8am–1am, Sat 9am–2am

Cioccolateria Caniparoli

This tiny chocolate shop in Lucca has built a loyal following, and it’s easy to see why. The selection ranges from classic pralines to candied chestnuts and buttery biscuits, all made with the utmost care. It’s the kind of place where you pop in for one thing and end up leaving with a box.

• Web:

  https://caniparolicioccolateria.it/en

• E-mail:

  info@caniparolicioccolateria.it

• Address:

  Via San Paolino, 44, Lucca

• Phone:

  +39 0583 53456

• Opening hours:

  Daily 9:30am–7:30pm

Coffee Bar MokaSirs

MokaSirs is a small, unassuming café on Via Grande in Livorno where the coffee hits the spot and the pastries never disappoint, with the added bonus that both coffee and sweets are around a euro.

• Address:

  Via Grande, 127, Livorno

• Phone:

  +39 0586 952859

• Opening hours:

  Mon–Sat 7am–7:30pm, Sun closed

Ditta Artigianale

This small café in Florence is known for its serious coffee—and rightly so, considering it was started by an award-winning barista. Beans are sourced from around the world, and the staff know exactly what they’re doing. It’s a good spot for a quick espresso, a slow brunch, or something sweet in the afternoon.

• Web:

  www.dittaartigianale.it

• Address:

  Via dei Neri, 32R, Florence

• Phone:

  +39 055 274 1541

• Opening hours:

  Mon–Fri 8am–7pm, Sat & Sun 8am–8pm