Sandwich in Italian is “panino”. When in Florence you must experience the panini that can be found in many cafes and bars. But the ones that are delectable and scrumptious are hard to come by. As they are full of fresh prosciutto, pecorino, mozzarella…ok my mouth is watering. These places are run by the lovers of all that is Tuscan, fresh and full of flavor. Basically like having a party in your mouth. My first recommendation for Best Panino Place are my friends Luca and Leo.
Leo making a panino with porchetta
Vinaino di Parte Guelfa was born by two brothers-in-law who wanted to entice the palates of locals and tourists. Located on a small side street (Via Val di Lamona 6) near
Mercato del Porcellino, it is hidden from most travelers. There is a menu but if you can pick what you want on your
panino or
schiacciata. Asking for a recommendation with prosciutto or
salame toscano, they will make you the best sandwich you’ve ever tasted. There are also sauces with truffle, olive, spicy and mushroom. Delicious sun-dried tomatoes, spicy eggplant, marinated artichokes and all kinds of cheese from pecorino, brie,
caprino (goat’s cheese),
crescenza (cow’s milk cheese) and fresh mozzarella. To drink they offer water, soda, beer, Chianti wine and white wine. The ambiance here is incredible. I never feel out of place. Locals who work nearby are always stopping by for a quick bite before getting back to work. There is a bench outside the locale where you can eat your sandwich and watch as people pass by.
Luca chopping some porchetta
Vinaino di Parte Guelfa
Via Val di Lamona 6
Tel: 055 287876
Another quaint little panino shop located on Via della Condotta, Il Cernacchino, makes delicious, simple panini. Located right off Piazza della Signoria, a place that offers tasty Tuscan delights while they have seating inside and in the entry way. They serve wine by the glass and have many other refreshments which can quench your thirst. You can grab a sandwich to go or sit the the room upstairs and rest your feet. They serve also soups, cinghiale (wild boar), fegatino (chicken liver sauce). The price of small sandwiches are €2.50 and the bigger ones are €5.00. A delicious traditional Tuscan stop for a lunch break.
The front of Il Cernacchino
Il Cernacchino
Via della Condotta 38/r
Tel. 055 294119
Make a change from eating pasta and pizza when visiting Florence, check out these delectable choices for panini! More panino shops coming up next month!!
2 Comments
Bar San Michele’s spinacci e ricotta focacia! Is Bar San Michele still there?
I am not sure where Bar San Michele is. If it is a bar that was near Orsanmichele I am sure it is still there. There are so many bars in Florence, I can’t keep track.