San Frediano and Santo Spirito: The Heart of Florentine Food and Wine
Introduction
The Oltrarno is famous for its slightly more "authentic" and less touristy atmosphere compared to the center of Florence. Here, in addition to the craft shops, there are numerous events related to the culinary tradition, ranging from fairs and markets to special events related to wine and typical Tuscan products.
Markets and Food and Wine Fairs
Mercato di San Frediano (Flea Market)
This historic market is held every first Sunday of the month in Piazza del Carmine and its surroundings and is a mix between a flea market and a market of typical products. In addition to vintage and artisanal objects, you will also find stalls selling local foods, such as cured meats, cheeses and typical Tuscan sweets. A great place to discover genuine products and make quality purchases.
Santo Spirito Market
Every week, in Piazza Santo Spirito, local producers bring fresh, seasonal vegetables, cheeses, meats, and other typical Tuscan products. Expect to find artichokes in the spring, tomatoes and zucchini in the summer, and mushrooms and chestnuts in the fall. An opportunity to wander among the stalls and buy fresh ingredients, perhaps to cook in one of the historic apartments in the area. In addition, there are plenty of opportunities to taste Tuscan Street Food.
Rificolona Festival
Although it is not exclusively food and wine, the Rificolona Festival, held on September 7, is a traditional Florentine event that involves the entire city. In Oltrarno there are many food stands, where you can eat typical dishes such as pappa al pomodoro, lampredotto, and other Tuscan dishes that should be paired with a good glass of Chianti.
Florence Wine Market
This event, often held in Piazza Santo Spirito or in nearby squares, celebrates Tuscan wines. Not just wine, but also food pairing with products such as olive oil, cheese, cured meats and Tuscan bread. It is an opportunity to discover small local producers, but also to learn more about viticulture in Tuscany, perhaps by participating in guided tastings. Check the event's website [insert web page link here] for dates and schedules.
Fierucolina Santo Spirito
The fierucolina di Santo Spirito in Florence is a traditional market held every first Sunday of the month in Piazza Santo Spirito, in the heart of the Oltrarno neighborhood. It is a sort of small artisan fair where you can find various local products, such as organic foods, plants, flowers, crafts and vintage objects. It is a very lively event, where Florentines mingle with tourists in a truly authentic and convivial atmosphere. If you like local markets, it is certainly a great opportunity to immerse yourself in the atmosphere of the neighborhood and discover some hidden treasures!
Food and Wine Events and Festivals
La Settimana del Buon Vivere
This festival celebrates gastronomic excellence and quality of life, with events in various locations in Florence, including Oltrarno. During the week, show cooking, tastings, masterclasses and guided tours of the markets and historic shops of the neighborhood are organized. There are also themed events, such as those dedicated to wine and local food.
Gelato Festival
If you are a gelato enthusiast, this event is not to be missed. In spring, the city hosts the Gelato Festival which, although not limited to Oltrarno, often also involves Piazza Santo Spirito. Here, you can taste artisanal gelato in all its variations, from the most classic to the most innovative, combined with Tuscan ingredients.
Vino in Piazza
This event is held in various squares in Florence and Oltrarno is never excluded. It is a festival dedicated to wine, which brings together local producers to offer tastings, insights and meetings with experts in the sector. It usually takes place in spring, during the months of May and June.
Osterie e Trattorie Storiche
If we talk about food and wine, we cannot fail to mention the places that characterize Oltrarno. In particular, in the neighborhoods of San Frediano and Santo Spirito you will find historic trattorias and osterias where you can eat typical Tuscan dishes.
Trattoria Al Tranvai (San Frediano)
Trattoria al Tranvai is one of the most characteristic places in Florence, known for its authenticity and for being less touristy. This restaurant is very popular with Florentines and offers traditional Tuscan dishes, with particular attention to the quality of the ingredients and home-made preparation. The restaurant has a welcoming and rustic atmosphere, with simple but very warm furnishings, which make you feel at home.
Trattoria La Casalinga (Santo Spirito)
Located in the Santo Spirito neighborhood, this trattoria is a point of reference for those looking for typical Tuscan dishes in an informal but welcoming environment. It is one of the most loved places by the locals, who appreciate the authenticity of the cuisine and the warm hospitality.
Trattoria Sabatino (San Frediano)
Another of San Frediano’s true food and wine gems, and an absolute must for those seeking an authentic Florentine dining experience! Located right in the heart of San Frediano, Trattoria Sabatino is a historic and traditional establishment, much loved by Florentines and visitors alike. It’s one of those places where time seems to have stood still, with a homely atmosphere and decor that retains the charm of old-fashioned trattorias. The cuisine here is truly Tuscan, simple but full of flavor: Ribollita, Crostini di fegatini, Homemade Pasta (Gnocchi, Pappardelle or lasagne, always fresh and with local toppings, such as wild boar ragù or beef sauce). Pair the Ribollita with a glass of Chianti Classico for a truly Tuscan experience. Expect prices for a full meal to be in the 20-30 euro range. Adding Trattoria Sabatino to your Oltrarno food and wine itinerary is a perfect choice, especially after a day spent discovering the markets or taking a food tour of the neighborhood.
MaMa Florence – Cooking School and Gastronomic Experiences
Mama Florence is located right in the heart of San Frediano, just a few steps away from the picturesque streets of the neighborhood.
The Mama Florence team is made up of passionate and knowledgeable chefs, who will guide you through every step of the culinary process, explaining not only the techniques, but also the history and culture behind the dishes.
A great option for an authentic experience If you want a truly immersive experience in the Florentine food and wine culture, Mama Florence is one of the best choices, as you will not only learn to cook typical Tuscan dishes, but also take home a piece of Florence, with the recipes and techniques learned during the course.
With this, your culinary journey in the Oltrarno will be truly complete!
