5 Best Restaurants in The Oltrarno, Florence

Florentines and other lovers of good food flock to "The Holy Drinker" for Tuscan-inspired dishes—perhaps the exceptional verdure sott'olio or the terrina di fegatini (a creamy chicken-liver spread) to start, followed by one of the divine pastas. Unpretentious white walls, dark wood furniture, and paper placemats provide the simple decor. The extensive wine list is well priced.

The name doesn't exactly mean "old dive," but it comes pretty close. The recipes here come from "wise grandmothers" and celebrate Tuscan food in its glorious simplicity—prosciutto is sliced to order, grilled meats are tender, service is friendly, and the wine list is well-priced and good. This lively trattoria has been around only since 1979, but it feels as if it's been in existence much longer. Reservations are a good idea.

While you wait for your pizza or other trattoria fare, enjoy a glass of wine or a cocktail.

This innovative, charming place serves up remarkable food and is a must if you're looking for a sublime bistecca alla fiorentina. The wine list, as befits the love child of a fine enoteca, is divine.

The eclectic staff perfectly matches the diverse menu at this trattoria, where, in winter, you can eat in one of two rooms with high ceilings, and, in summer, you can sit outside and people-watch. Traditional Tuscan favorites, such as tortelli mugellani (potato- and cheese-stuffed pasta in a wild boar meat sauce), are on offer, as are less typical dishes such as the earthy cabbage salad with avocado, pine nuts, and drops of olio di tartufo (truffle oil). Reservations are advised.