Mercato Centrale, Florence

It was cool to bounce around and get some fresh food. This market has it all, produce, meat, seafood, cheese, bread, pastries, wine and other goodies. Delicious. Family loved it. Guy running the meat and cheese shop was cool to give samples and explain the difference between the meats. its a nice low key area to stay too close to Vatican City and public transportation options.

We had a great final night in Florence. We were looking for a simple meal and a couple drinks. We sat down at a table awaiting the pizzeria to open back up. Our waiter, Mark, brought us our first round and proceeded to make our night. He was the best server we’ve had in 6 nights in Italy! He explained everything, brought me 3 beer samples and explained how he was saving for a trip to Dubai. In a town full of art…Mark was the masterpiece!!!

If you're in Firenze for more than a couple days, this is extremely recommended. The Florentine culture is perfectly represented here, with all kinds of important pasta, spices and other items integral to Florentine food culture. Many vendors with different comparable prices for what you're looking for. I found great interest in getting all natural organic ingredients for a squid ink infused pasta dish I wanted to make, and found quality ingredients for everything from the cheese, to the prawn and vegetables and the oils and spices for this dish. Highly recommended. The second story has great small restaurants both representing Florentine food, halal food, oriental and a couple american vendors as well, so you can get that craving you're looking for. Must go to.

Great place for fresh produce, seafood, meats, nuts, oils, vinegars, wine, etc. First floor is the market with all the stalls of wares. Upstairs is a food court with different selections of cuisine. The oils, spices, and vinegar stalls are happy to let you sample the product. I suggest finding your fave balsamic vinegar here as there are some lovely selections. And if you’re feeling adventurous, there’s octopus, equine meat, all sorts of cheeses, and truffles (fungi, not chocolate) galore.

Sadly I didn’t take any pictures of anything but my food! But I loved the Mercado. It’s up the escalators so don’t get lost. You have so many options for food. Great wine selections as well. We went on a weeknight and it wasn’t too busy. Definitely recommend for larger groups since they have big tables.