When you spend several months living in a city, you quickly discover those gems where you continue to return. Add in travel on the weekends, and actually very little time spent in that city, and these gems become a part of the weekly routine. When you go away, you think about these places until you're pretty much craving what they have to offer, and you practically run there the second you return. In a city like Florence, places like these are by the dozen.
1. Salumeria Verdi
Better known as Pino's, this shop is a frequent stop on your way to class. Pino knows you personally, and your school's pennant might even be hanging in there. You would walk all the way across Florence for a Pino panino. You've probably entered their Monday photo contest before (and there's a good chance you've won).
2. Gelateria dei Neri
3. The News Cafe
The News Cafe doesn't just have your favorite cappuccino, it's also your favorite study spot. Their tavola calda can't be beat, and you certainly don't mind the hospitality of their incredible bartenders (and no one draws the Duomo better than Marco, am I right?). The News Cafe always brightens up your day, and you're always sad on Sundays when it's closed.
4. Tijuana
When you need a break from all of that Italian food, Tijuana is the place to go. Their happy hour cannot be beat in both prices and food. Their frozen cocktails are exactly what you need after a long day of classes. Sometimes, it's nice to take a break from Italy!
5. Gusta Pizza
Gusta pizza is no foreigner to any study abroad student. Their heart-shaped pizza has graced your Instagram. Gusta is the first stop whenever an out-of-towner comes to visit. You probably wish it was closer to you so you could have it more often! And when you do get there, you are never less sorry about devouring an entire pizza.
6. The Diner
Another place where you can go to escape all the pasta, stepping into The Diner is like stepping into America, and sometimes that's exactly what you need! Their milkshakes and pancakes are exactly what you need to feel less homesick. You probably have one of their student discount cards, and you've probably already filled it up quite a bit.
7. La Carraia
Nestled conveniently across from The Red Garter (and we all know you've been there), La Carraia looks unassuming but actually delivers the best of the best in the gelato department. Their mousse flavors are to die for, but with so many options to choose from, it definitely takes you a while to make your pick. It is dangerously delicious, and a frequent visit.
8. All'Antico Vinaio
If you are willing to brave the line, All'Antico Vinaio will always deliver the top-notch panino you're looking for. Their ingredients are fresh and never disappoint you. This shop is a constant friend to your tummy.
9. The Oil Shoppe
The Oil Shoppe is constantly at the top of your list for places to go. Their iced coffee almost tastes like the American coffee you miss so much, and their sandwiches are always hot and fresh. Not to mention, their homemade potato chips and fries are pretty much the best snack in Florence. Like The Diner, you probably have one of their punch cards, and manage to rack up a few punches each week.
10. Venchi
Thank God this is a chain, because you could always go for some gelato from Venchi. Although on the more expensive side, Venchi's cremino gelato is unparalleled. Even when you leave Florence, you can probably still find that classic Venchi gelato. It is your favorite stop amongst your shopping trips around Florence.
11. Tamero
Tamero's fresh pasta is all you need after a long week and their aperitivo, while usually packed, is well worth the wait. Tamero delivers that fresh Italian cuisine that you studied abroad for.
12. Biblioteca delle Oblate
And finally, when you actually want to get some studying done, the Oblate is the place to do it. Their picturesque outdoor cafe supplies the perfect backdrop to get you feeling motivated (and the fact that they have coffee definitely doesn't hurt). When it's a nice day, you flock to the library to grab the perfect table spot in view of the Duomo and get ready to settle in to do some work. It's the best spot to remind you, "hey, I'm studying right now, but I'm in Europe, so there could be worse things."
