The best breakfasts in Florence
The top spots to start your day with a burst of energy
We have all been told that breakfast is the most important meal of the day. Perhaps too often, yet it rings true. Breakfast gives us the right energy to tackle the entire day of work or study, but above all it offers wonderful variety. From the classic cornetto and cappuccino combo to savoury options like pizzette and focaccia, right through to an English breakfast with scrambled eggs, toast and bacon. Whether enjoyed at home or at the counter, in a hurry or at leisure, breakfast in Florence boasts a diverse selection of pastry shops ready to please every palate.
The Tuscan capital will win your palate over on a morning tour of the city’s most indulgent addresses: Flawless has selected the unmissable spots for the best breakfasts in Florence. All that is left is to take a seat and discover the treats that will brighten your upcoming mornings with energy and cheer.
Pasticceria Giorgio
Via Duccio di Buoninsegna, 36
Since 1972, in Via Duccio di Buoninsegna, the tradition of Pasticceria Giorgio has endured as one of the finest in the city. A true Florentine institution capable of delighting even the most demanding palates at any hour of the morning. You are truly spoilt for choice here: between bignè, chantilly millefoglie, rich Sacher tortes, delicate brioches and a mouth-watering Schiacciata alla Fiorentina, you will never leave disappointed. It is an ideal spot for a quiet breakfast, just away from the bustle of the centre.
Pasticceria Silvano e Valentino
Via Niccolò Paganini, 2
At Pasticceria Silvano e Valentino you feel immediately at home, thanks to the friendly welcome of the owners of this sweet haven. Fresh morning bakes greet you at the counter; a word of advice: alongside the schiacciata fiorentina and the millefoglie, try the paste crema e cioccolato for the perfect start to your day.
Pasticceria Gaetano
Via della Torre degli Agli
For anyone who loves Sicily and craves its flavours, Pasticceria Gaetano in Novoli is undoubtedly the place to go. For over 40 years, the tables of this Sicilian corner have served genuine island specialities including coffee, brioches, cassata, cannoli artigianali and savoury arancini, wrapped in the warm, festive hospitality typical of the island.
Dolci Pensieri
Via del Ponte alle Riffe, 26r and Borgo la Croce, 26r
Taking inspiration from Anglo-Saxon bakery culture, the two outposts of Dolci Pensieri were opened by the lively Gianna in Via del Ponte alle Riffe and Borgo la Croce. Amid slate displays and wooden furnishings, you will discover fragrant tea blends from La via del tè, fresh juices and a mouth-watering selection of bakes. From vegan muffins and cheesecake to castagnaccio and the house signature torta al cioccolato fondente e vino rosso, Dolci Pensieri never disappoints.
strong>PASTICCERIA DOLCI E DOLCEZZE
Piazza Cesare Beccaria, 8 / R
Dolci e dolcezze could not be a more fitting name for this pastry shop in Piazza Beccaria. From the pastel storefront lined with artisan cakes and delicate single-portion pastries, you quickly see that nothing is left to chance, while the cosy setting makes you feel right at home. Dolci e Dolcezze is the place to enjoy a breakfast scented with butter and jam, a slice of rich chocolate cake made from a family recipe passed down through generations, or a classic coffee with a fruit tart. An unmissable destination for a traditional sweet escape.
A Ménagère
Via de ‘Ginori, 8 / R
Not far from the Basilica di San Lorenzo, among the historic palazzi of Via de’ Ginori, sits La Ménagère: a concept restaurant with vaulted ceilings, vintage furniture and refined postmodern design. Sip an expertly made cappuccino enveloped by the scent of bouquets and floral displays. Alongside generous breakfasts featuring Italian pastries and American classics, the bistro houses a florist corner curated by Artemisia with seasonal blooms and colourful plants. An eclectic venue where breakfast becomes a visual and culinary experience.
Mama’s Bakery
Via della Chiesa, 34R
For anyone with a sweet tooth, Mama’s Bakery is an enticing address in Oltrarno, offering a slice of paradise inspired by American baking. The bakery wins guests over with a generous selection of cookies, cheesecake, brownies, colourful cupcakes and tender muffins. Indulge in a cosy treat in this welcoming setting filled with bakes, books and bright colours, beloved by children and adults alike.
Caffè Lietta
Piazza della Libertà, 6/7/8
Under the porticoes of Piazza della Libertà, Francesca and Lucilla Tacconi—daughters of Lietta Cavalli and nieces of fashion designer Roberto Cavalli—opened Caffè Lietta, reviving the legacy of Caffè Giocosa, a fixture of Via Tornabuoni since 1815. The team from the historic café joined this venture, bringing back signature specialities like the pirulo, a shortcrust tart filled with ricotta and served with apple, berries or gianduja cream depending on the season. Alongside newer bakes you will find time-honoured classics, from fresh croissants to Sacher torte and torta della nonna, in a setting of timeless Florentine charm.
Caffetteria Piansa
Via Vincenzo Gioberti, 51 r e Via Gran Bretagna, 32
If you care about good espresso, nuanced roast profiles and distinctive blends, make your way to the counter of Alessandro Staderini. Raised on coffee, he expanded from Bagno a Ripoli to open Caffetteria Piansa on bustling Via Gioberti for an essential coffee break. It is the perfect place to start the day with a caffeine boost, offering flawless espresso, artisan cakes and biscuits, and refreshing cold brew to beat the Florentine summer heat, all served with genuine warmth.
Pasticceria Stefania
Via Guglielmo Marconi, 26 / R
At number 26 Via Marconi lies a haven of Florentine indulgence: Pasticceria Stefania, balancing heritage and modern tastes, including delicious gluten-free pastries. Since opening in 1988, this sweet spot has been celebrated for its pasticceria mignon, fresh, crisp bomboloni—a local institution—and flaky pastries filled with apple or crema. Treat yourself to a morning visit; you will not regret it.
