Trattoria Sabatino

"Sometimes people ask me: “how do Italians eat so much and stay slim?”. Well, in my opinion, what is served in many restaurants is not the most accurate depiction of what people usually eat at home! Restaurants here, like in many places in the world, tend to serve food that is richer and more complex compared to what people actually eat at home, which is one of the reasons why many of us go to restaurants in the first place: to treat ourselves, to enjoy something extra rich! But there are some exceptions and, for me, Trattoria Sabatino is one of them. This little restaurant, found in the San Frediano neighborhood, which is considered by many one of the last, older, “real” Florentine neighborhoods, has been in business since 1956 and it’s only open on weekdays, probably also because a large part of their clientele is made up of people on their lunch break, looking for simple food and a good deal. Here you’ll find some of the most affordable dishes in Florence, simple pasta dishes, vegetable and rice soup, roast beef (“rosbif”) with potatoes, raw chopped cabbage with a drizzle of extra-virgin olive oil, fresh fruit. Notes: - probably the most affordable restaurant on this list; - do not expect beautiful plating; - beware that the staff is usually very direct and busy; - enjoy the simplicity of it all. [Closed on weekends] "

"Part of me wants to gatekeep this local spot there most dishes are priced under 7 euros. It's perfect for budget-conscious foodies seeking an authentic taste of Florence without breaking the bank. Tucked away in the Oltrarno district near the historic Piazza Santo Spirito, it's a favorite among locals and in-the-know travelers. Inside you'll find checkered tablecloths, wooden chairs and walls adorned with vintage photographs and memorabilia. The Buccioni family has been serving home cooking here since 1956, and the menu is handwritten (or typewritten) each day. Some menu items to try: The ribollita, a hearty vegetable and bread soup. Also, the perfectly cooked pasta al ragù. And the bistecca alla fiorentina is a standout that rivals any high-end restaurant, but at a fraction of the cost."

"Un’istituzione fiorentina, questa trattoria offre piatti casalinghi e genuini, serviti in un ambiente rustico e informale. Perfetta per chi vuole assaporare la cucina tradizionale toscana a prezzi accessibili. Tipo di attività: Trattoria tradizionale Fascia di prezzo: Bassa Ideale per: Pranzi e cene tipicamente toscani Esperienze culinarie autentiche"