5 Best Restaurants in Around the Duomo, Florence

What many consider the best gelateria in the centro storico embodies the "practice makes perfect" adage. It's been making ice cream since 1939.

One of the best spots in Florence for people-watching offers stellar service, light snacks, and terrific aperitivi. It's been around since the 1860s, and has been famous for its hot and cold chocolate (with or without cream) for more than a century. Though the food is mostly good (it's not a bad place for a light, but expensive, lunch), it's best to stick to drinks (both alcoholic and non-) and the terrific cakes, pies, and pastries.

Although there are some serious wine offerings at this spot in the heart of the centro storico, it's also a good place for tasty breakfast baked items and light lunches.

Specializing in things Sicilian, this shop is known for its tart and flavorful granitàs (flavored ices), which are thirst-quenchers. It's also a great place to grab a gelato after seeing Michelangelo's David.

Breakfast, lunch, dessert, and afternoon tea are all possibilities at this restaurant on a leafy outdoor patio in Piazza Signoria. The garden is also open until midnight, serving food until 10 pm, making it a swanky spot for an evening cocktail and light meal.