If you walk down via Romana in the direction of the massive Porta Romana (the namesake of this neighborhood), you will inevitably pass La Favola. This is a tiny bakery that, from first glance, could lead you to believe it's a typical panifico siciliano, offering traditional Sicilian style-bread and pastries. In reality, it is so much more! It's enough to glance at the handwritten sign on the window that says, "gluten-free bread and pastries," to understand it is different.
But as someone who avoids gluten and has lived in Italy for a few years, I can say that it's not easy to find products that are both authentic and made with wheat-free alternatives. Here are my ultimate saviors: a Sicilian couple, Isa and Fabbio, who work incredibly hard to provide typical Florentine and Sicilian baked goods for both wheat-eating costumers and those who have gluten intolerance.
My favorites are thebuckwheat croissants and tea cookies, the buckwheat sourdough schiacciata, and their newest innovation, a paleo bread. Of course, if you or your friends are looking for a classic pizza a taglia, croissant, or bread made with Italian wheat, you are sure to find that there as well.
Find your way with 108 Insider Tips from our Local Spotters
This eclectic boutique celebrates the marriage of fashion & art, showcasing a captivating array of artisan jewelry, handcrafted bags, upcycled decoration.
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Their idea of what a toy shop should be is: gender-neutral (it sounds like a revolution to me!), kids free to touch everything, and to choose on their own.
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"The Gran Cru" is something between a beer shop and pub in the south of Florence. I like how it has a friendly atmosphere and the tips by owner Francesco.
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Surrender to the expertly crafted Negronis, refreshing Aperol Spritzes, or personalized cocktails tailored to your preferences at Mago Balducci.
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"Serre Torrigiani" is a private garden that hosts a bar and a bistrot in Florence. The noble family still owns the villa & manages the bistros to this day!
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"Surf Ventura Club" Florence is my favorite place for cocktails in the city. It's hard to find - I always have to look well to find the right door...
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"Bellosguardo" Florence is a hill with a special place in my heart for its unique view of most famous buildings from a different point of view: the front!
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"Gelateria Il Sorriso" Florence is my 'girl next door' gelateria. It might not be the fanciest, but is the ice cream shop I fell in love with...
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"Twist Bistrot" in Florence is one of those places where you feel at home, giving you the feeling that you are surrounded by friends...
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"Piccola Farmacia Letteraria" in Florence is a small bookshop run by Elena which everyone, including me, describes as special. Go there & then for a beer!
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