Discover Florence through the eyes of an expert: culinary tips from The Chew Review!

We are very proud to share with you an extraordinary experience that took us straight to the heart of Florentine gastronomic culture, guided by an exceptional host: Carly, the brilliant mind behind “The Chew Review.”

For those unfamiliar with her, Carly is not just a food blogger, but a true authority in the culinary world.

With a degree from the prestigious Richard Ivey School of Business and a certificate in Culinary Arts from George Brown College, Carly boasts over 10 years of marketing experience for agencies and restaurants in the Food & Beverage industry. This unique combination of culinary and marketing expertise makes her an unequaled figure in the content creation landscape. Her insatiable curiosity for emerging gastronomic trends, from Toronto to the rest of the world, is the spark that fuels her creativity every day. Thanks to her refined palate and deep knowledge, Carly is always a step ahead in discovering new delicacies and the most succulent trends.

And Carly herself, with her keen eye and impeccable taste, has done us the immense pleasure of sharing her gastronomic adventures in Florence. Get ready to take notes, because we are about to reveal her tips for an unforgettable culinary experience in Florence!

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🥪The "schiacciata", the queen of Florence

La Schiacciata Rossa: prosciutto, Brie, crema al tartufo, rucola

If you’re in Florence, it’s nearly impossible not to run into the massive crowds surrounding the famous Antico Vinaio. But Carly invites us to take a detour: “Forget the classic and walk a little further,” she suggests.
The destination is Via dei Cimatori, where the real, succulent alternative is hidden: I’ Girone de’ Ghiotti. Here, the schiacciata experience is elevated. Carly says the schiacciata at I’ Girone is “much more worth the wait”—and yes, prepare to queue, but with the knowledge that the final reward will be decisively superior.
Her personal, must-try recommendation is La Schiacciata Rossa: a masterpiece of balance between savory prosciutto, delicate Brie, opulent truffle cream, and the peppery touch of arugula. For those who dare, an extra tip: add a drizzle of honey for a sweet-and-savory contrast that will send you into ecstasy. This is a true culinary destination for anyone seeking the best Florentine street food.

📍Via dei Cimatori, 23, 50122 Firenze
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📷 @igironedeghiotti

If the goal is to taste a traditional Florentine schiacciata, crispy and fragrant, but you wish to escape the infinite queues of the more touristy areas, Carly’s tip is irreplaceable: head to SchiacciaMatta.
Located in the lively and authentic Sant’Ambrogio neighborhood, this spot is a true benchmark loved by Florentines, offering a more relaxed and genuine atmosphere. Here, the ingredients are carefully selected, and the schiacciate are filled with abundance. It is not just a quick meal, but an immersion in local flavor.
The real joy, according to the shared experience, is precisely that of taking the schiacciata to go and enjoying it while strolling through the historic alleys, along the Arno, or sitting in a less-crowded piazza. It is the perfect way to transform a simple snack into a moment of authentic Florentine exploration, a true celebration for the taste buds that seek the straightforward and sincere flavor of the Tuscan tradition.

📍Borgo la Croce, 68/r, 50121 Firenze
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📷 @schiacciamattafirenze

In her exploration, Carly could not help but return to a place that, ten years ago, left her with a “life-changing” memory: L’Antico Vinaio. Although the shop is now a global institution and one of the most cited names when discussing Florentine schiacciata, the current experience revealed a bittersweet note. The sandwich, once epic in Carly’s memory, is now “not so much” revolutionary. This reflects, perhaps, both the evolution of her palate and the brand’s rapid international expansion. Carly, in fact, reveals that, in her opinion, the version offered in New York City is “just as good, or even better.” This is an interesting reflection on how quality and experience can change when the authentic local flavor travels and adapts to international contexts. It serves as a reminder that, at times, the magic of discovery lies precisely in the less obvious and crowded places, such as the alternative Carly suggested.

📍via dei Neri, 65/r, 50122 Firenze
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📷 @allanticovinaiofirenze

🍦An essential little indulgence: Gelato

While Florence is renowned for its abundance of gelaterie, finding one that combines consistent quality and creativity is essential. For this, Carly provides us with a guarantee: Gelateria La Carraia is “always fantastic.”
Located near the Ponte alla Carraia (from which it takes its name), at 2 minutes from our building Palazzo Medici, this gelateria is chosen by Florentines and discerning visitors alike. What distinguishes La Carraia is its ability to offer both classic flavors of Italian tradition (like Pistachio or Hazelnut) executed to perfection, and more daring and delicious creations that change with the seasons. No matter when you visit, the consistency of the gelato is always impeccable: creamy, rich, and prepared with fresh ingredients. It is the ideal choice for an after-dinner treat or a refreshing break along the Arno, a sweet and reliable end to any Florentine gastronomic adventure.

📍 Piazza Nazario Sauro, 25/r, 50124 Firenze
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📷 @gelaterialacarraia

One of the most iconic and refreshing breaks you can take in Italy is the Affogato, a simple yet sublime dessert: one or more scoops of gelato, usually vanilla or fior di latte, literally “drowned” by a generous shot of hot espresso. The most famous destination for this ritual in Florence is the historic Gelateria Vivoli. Well, Carly tells us about a slight misadventure: upon her arrival, the famous gelateria was closed for vacation. Fortunately, her search for an Affogato that measured up led her to an alternative that, according to her, is “just as good (if not better)“: Gelateria David in Borgo degli Albizi. This proves that, in Florence, even when the giants of tradition take a break, quality and deliciousness are always around the corner, ready to offer a moment of pure caffeinated and frozen bliss.

📍 Borgo degli Albizi, 36 R, 50122 Firenze|
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📷 @davidlagelateria

🥩 Florentine steak: between hype and tradition

No culinary trip to Florence is complete without a close encounter with the iconic Bistecca Fiorentina: a thick cut, strictly rare, cooked over embers, and simply served. To try this pillar of Tuscan gastronomy, Carly chose La Giostra, a restaurant currently at the center of conversation and very much in vogue.

Although La Giostra is undoubtedly a fascinating and picturesque place, Carly’s opinion on its Bistecca Fiorentina was that she found it “a bit overrated” compared to the enormous hype. However, she doesn’t hold back from recommending it, calling it “still 1000% worth trying.” This suggestion reflects her philosophy: experiencing trendy places is important, but maintaining a critical eye is essential.

📍 Borgo Pinti, 16 R, 50121 Firenze
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📷 @lagiostrafirenze

🍸Time for a break, drink in hand:

View on Art: Un Cocktail a Bassa Tensione con Vista Duomo

Florence isn’t just traditional restaurants; it’s also home to perfect spots to enjoy an aperitivo or a cocktail in style. Carly offers us a real gem for anyone seeking the perfect balance between relaxation, excellent drinks, and a breathtaking view: View on Art.
Despite its very central location and unparalleled view, Carly describes it as a place that is “surprisingly low key.” This rooftop is not a chaotic and pretentious venue, but a true oasis where you can enjoy delicious cocktails while admiring the Duomo in all its majesty. It is the ideal place to conclude a day of exploration or to start the evening with a moment of pure Florentine beauty and a quality drink.

📍 Via dei Medici, 6, 50123 Firenze
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📷 @viewonart

When it comes to enjoying an aperitivo in style, with an elevated perspective over the city, Carly has her favorite: Loggia Roofbar.
This is not a simple bar, but a destination that offers one of the most sophisticated and panoramic experiences in Florence. Located in a privileged position, it is the ideal place to toast the sunset, admiring the myriad of red roofs and historic monuments that stretch out beneath you. If you are looking for a culinary trend expert’s favorite rooftop for a chic and relaxing moment, where drink quality is matched by an unforgettable view, the Loggia Roofbar is the place that cannot be missed on your Florentine itinerary.

📍 Hotel Palazzo Guadagni – Piazza Santo Spirito, 9, 50125 Firenze
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📷 @loggia_roofbar

Carly made sure not to miss the opportunity to try another trendy cocktail in Florence, the Sarti Aperitivo Spritz. The Sarti Spritz is a variation on the classic Italian aperitivo theme renowned for its distinctive color and refreshing flavor. However, Carly’s tasting experience came with a warning: it was tried at “some overpriced place in front of the Duomo.”
This anecdote is an important reminder for those visiting Florence: although enjoying a drink with a direct view of iconic monuments like the Cathedral is an unmissable luxury, the experience often comes with a premium price tag.
The goal to try the famous Sarti Spritz was achieved, but with the awareness that, in Florence, you pay for the spectacular view!

📍 Piazza del Duomo Firenze
📷 @sarti_aperitivo

🍝 And let's not forget the pasta!

Among all the restaurants visited in Florence, there is one place that holds a place of honor in Carly’s culinary memories: Il Profeta.
Carly assures us that the pasta she tried here was a “life-changing” experience, and, even more surprisingly, it remained so ten years later. This testifies to the consistency, passion, and quality of the ingredients used by Il Profeta.
If you are looking for a pasta dish that is not just a meal, but an authentic Florentine gastronomic experience destined to remain imprinted in your memory, Il Profeta is the destination that unites tradition, excellence, and a touch of culinary magic.

📍 Borgo Ognissanti, 93/r, 50123 Firenze
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📷 @ilprofeta_firenze

If you are looking for a pasta dish that breaks with tradition and offers an out-of-the-ordinary sensory experience, Carly’s tip is La Buchetta. Here, the attention is entirely on a surprising dish: the “angel & demon” gnocchi.
Carly defines them as “the most unique” she has ever tasted, suggesting an intriguing mix of flavors and contrasts that play on the concept of duality.
This specialty is not just food; it is a small culinary work of art that reflects Florentine cuisine’s creativity beyond the classics. It is the perfect stop for anyone wishing to step away from the predictable and experience an innovative and memorable dish.

📍 Via dei Benci, 3, 50122 Firenze
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📷 @labuchetta

☕A good coffee is just what is needed

For a moment of pure immersion in the historical elegance of Florence, Carly’s choice fell upon Caffè Gilli. Strategically located in Piazza della Repubblica, this café is not just a place to enjoy an excellent espresso or traditional pastry; it is a true piece of Florentine history.
Carly defines it as an “iconic spot for people watching and vibes.” Gilli offers the unique opportunity to sit down, relax, and soak up the vibrant energy of the piazza, observing the flow of tourists and Florentines. It is the perfect setting for an afternoon coffee or an evening aperitivo, where classic architecture, impeccable service, and a lively atmosphere merge to create an unmissable and charming experience.

📍 Via Roma, 1r, 50123 Firenze
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📷 @caffegilli

For those who appreciate high-quality coffee and an impeccable blend, Ditta Artigianale is Carly’s choice. Located along the Arno, a short distance from her apartment Boccaccio, Carly praises the quality of the coffee offered here, describing it as “incredible coffee.”

Ditta Artigianale is a Florentine brand known for its attention to the bean, roasting techniques, and artisanal preparation. An interesting detail is Carly’s personal comparison: despite being a brand that had made an attempt (which failed) in Toronto, the Florentine shop in Italy is “never the same“but in a positive way! This suggests that the atmosphere, the local water, or perhaps the pure Italian passion for espresso, enhances this coffee, making it a superior and unmissable experience in Florence.

📍 Lungarno Soderini, 7R, 50124 Firenze
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📷 @dittaartigianale

There’s no time to lose: book your trip to Florence immediately and try these marvels!

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