Trattoria Sostanza

"Trattoria Sostanza is one of Florence's OG restaurants, in continuous business since 1869 (not a typo!), born where once stood a butcher shop, whose presence you can still perceive via the large white tiles on the wall. Make sure you make a reservation in advance, because this long and skinny restaurant fills up quick. Trattoria Sostanza is most famous for four dishes: 1. Bronzed chicken breasts deliciously drenched in butter, topped with a fresh squeeze of lemon juice. Served in the same pan they were cooked in, in direct contact with red-hot embers (peek into the kitchen to see for yourself). 2. A fabulously gooey artichoke heart "omelette", made of very thin egg spirals. 3. Classic Florentine-style steak. 4. A tall, layered merengue cake with chocolate chips and petite forest strawberries ("fragoline di bosco"). "

"- Step back in time at Trattoria Sostanza, a no-frills, family-run institution cherished by Florentines for generations. The menu features daily specials based on the freshest seasonal ingredients, showcasing the essence of Tuscan cuisine. Prepare to savor hearty pastas like pappardelle al cinghiale (broad ribbons with wild boar ragù) or succulent secondi (main courses) like Florentine steak. Don't miss their legendary peposo – a slow-cooked stew of Chianina beef and black pepper. Warm, simple, and traditional. Expect a lively atmosphere with locals enjoying a hearty meal. Reservations are highly recommended."

"Known to locals as "Il Troia," this authentic 1940s-style eatery is a culinary institution in Florence. The handwritten menu changes daily, reflecting the freshest local ingredients and the chef’s creativity. The lemon and butter chicken, served tableside in a sizzling pan, is a must-try. Also consider the artichoke pie, tortellini with meat sauce, and the bistecca alla fiorentina. For dessert, don't miss the raspberry meringue ice cream cake. Note that it operates on strict hours and keeps it old-school with a cash-only policy."