Da Nerbone

Tucked inside Florence’s bustling Mercato Centrale, Da Nerbone stands as a living piece of the city’s culinary history. This unpretentious food stall has been dishing out honest Florentine fare since 1873, making it one of the last authentic holdouts in a market that’s increasingly catered to tourists. Skip the souvenir pasta shaped like Italy and make your way to the ever-present line at this beloved counter.

The star of the show here is the lampredotto panino—a tripe sandwich that might sound intimidating but represents the heart and soul of Florentine street food. The tender, slow-cooked stomach meat is piled onto crusty bread and makes for an unforgettable experience. If offal isn’t your thing, the bollito (stewed beef) sandwiches are equally satisfying, and the ribollita soup delivers comfort in a bowl with its hearty mix of bread, beans, and vegetables.

What sets Da Nerbone apart is its genuine atmosphere. This is one of the rare spots where you’ll find local tradespeople rubbing elbows with curious travelers, all united by their appreciation for straightforward, delicious food. The wild boar pappardelle offers a heartier option for those wanting to sit down with a proper plate of pasta.

For anyone seeking an authentic taste of Florence without the white tablecloth prices, Da Nerbone delivers exactly what it has for over 150 years. Join the line, order with confidence, and experience a slice of old Florence that refuses to disappear.