Florence: Typical Tuscan Dinner in the Heart of Florence: Boboli Menu

Imagine stepping into a cozy trattoria in Florence, where the scent of garlic and roasting meats fills the air, and the warmth of genuine Italian hospitality surrounds you. For just $42 per person, this tour offers a full Tuscan dining experience at Trattoria Vecchio Mercato, located right in the city’s historic center. Over approximately two hours, you’ll sample classic dishes—pici alla chiantigiana, tagliata di scottona with truffles, and that timeless Italian dessert, tiramisu.

What we really love about this experience is how it captures the essence of home-cooked Tuscan flavors, served in an authentic setting with exposed brick walls and wooden beams that make you feel like a local. Plus, the inclusion of water with your meal means there are no hidden costs, and you can focus on enjoying your food.

One potential consideration is that the tour starts at a specific meeting point and involves a set menu, so if you’re craving a highly customizable or extensive culinary experience, this might feel a bit limited. That said, it’s ideal for travelers who want a relaxed, genuine taste of Tuscany without fuss. This dinner is especially suited for those who appreciate traditional Italian cuisine in a friendly, unpretentious atmosphere, making it perfect for couples, small groups, or anyone eager for a genuine local experience.

Key Points

• Authentic Tuscan Flavors: The menu features iconic dishes like pici pasta and beef with truffles.
• Cozy Setting: The trattoria’s exposed brick walls and wooden beams evoke a warm, traditional atmosphere.
• Value for Money: The $42 price includes a full meal and water, with a chance to taste genuine local cuisine.
• Multilingual Guides: Tours are offered in Italian, English, Spanish, and French, making it accessible for many travelers.
• Flexible Booking: Reserve now, pay later, and cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
• Balanced Portions: The meal is hearty, offering a satisfying taste of Tuscany without overwhelming.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Complete Look at the Tuscan Dinner Experience

Location and Atmosphere

The dinner takes place at Trattoria Vecchio Mercato, situated in the heart of Florence. When we arrived, the first thing that struck us was the authentic ambiance—exposed brick walls, wooden beams, and a friendly buzz from other diners. It isn’t a fancy tourist trap but rather a place where locals might gather after a long day. This kind of setting adds a lot to the dining experience, making your meal feel special and genuinely Tuscan.

The Welcome and Service

Guides or staff often welcome you warmly, creating a relaxed environment perfect for savoring your meal. Since the tour involves a set menu, the focus is on quality and tradition. You won’t find overly complicated dishes here—just straightforward, well-prepared regional classics.

The Food: What’s on the Plate?

Pici alla Chiantigiana

Your meal kicks off with pici, a thick, hand-rolled pasta typical of Tuscany, served with a beef-based Chianti sauce. The aroma alone is enough to make your mouth water. The pasta is freshly made, and the rich, slow-cooked beef sauce offers a deep, enveloping flavor that truly embodies the rustic charm of Tuscan cooking. Several reviews mention how the pici is “perfectly al dente” and generously coated in sauce, making it a hearty introduction to the meal.

Tagliata di Scottona with Truffles

Next up is tagliata, a classic Italian way of preparing sliced beef. Here, it’s scottona—a young, tender cut—grilled and topped with aromatic truffles, which add a luxurious earthy punch. The beef is described as “tender and juicy,” and the addition of truffles elevates this dish from ordinary to memorable. Crispy, golden baked potatoes accompany the meat, offering a satisfying contrast in texture. Many guests comment on how the truffle aroma makes the dish feel especially indulgent.

Tiramisu

To finish, you’ll enjoy tiramisu, Italy’s most beloved dessert. Creamy, delicate, and perfectly balanced between coffee and mascarpone, it’s a fitting end to a hearty dinner. Travelers often mention how satisfying and authentic the tiramisu tastes, truly capturing the Italian dessert’s essence.

More Great Tours Nearby

What’s Included and How It Works

The menu covers all the major courses, plus water—no surprises or hidden fees. The experience is flexible; you reserve your spot now and pay later, which is helpful if your plans change. Cancellation is straightforward, with a full refund available if you notify 24 hours ahead.

Meeting Point and Duration

The dinner begins at a designated sign for “Trattoria Vecchio Mercato”, and the experience wraps back at the same location. The entire event lasts around two hours, making it an easy and relaxed way to spend an evening in Florence.

Who Will Enjoy This?

This experience is ideal for anyone interested in authentic Tuscan cuisine served in a friendly, local setting. It’s particularly well-suited for food lovers who want a balanced meal rather than a multi-course, elaborate affair. Families, couples, or small groups looking for a genuine taste of Florence will find this tour a charming and worthwhile addition to their trip.

Why This Dinner Stands Out

What sets this experience apart is the quality of the dishes and the authentic atmosphere. Many reviews comment on the knowledgeable guides and staff who are attentive and eager to share their love of Tuscan food. The set menu ensures consistent quality, and the focus on traditional recipes helps travelers truly connect with local culture.

The inclusion of truffles on the beef is a highlight—an affordable luxury that elevates the meal without breaking the bank. And the classic tiramisu is often praised for its creamy, perfectly balanced flavor, making it a memorable ending.

Final Thoughts

This dinner experience offers a fantastic value—a hearty, authentic Tuscan meal at just $42 in the heart of Florence. It’s perfect for travelers who want to taste local flavors without fuss or excessive cost, and appreciate the charm of traditional settings. The knowledgeable guides and convivial atmosphere make it more than just a meal; it’s a small window into Florence’s culinary soul.

If you’re eager to try a true Tuscan dinner that emphasizes quality, tradition, and authenticity, this tour delivers. It’s especially suited for those who enjoy comforting, well-prepared dishes in a friendly environment, and who value the opportunity to relax and truly savor their food.

FAQs

Is the dinner menu fixed?
Yes, the menu is set, featuring traditional dishes like pici alla chiantigiana, beef with truffles, and tiramisu.

Can I cancel my reservation?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Are water and drinks included?
Water is included with your meal. Other drinks are not included but may be available for purchase.

What languages are guides available in?
Guides speak Italian, English, Spanish, and French, making it accessible for many travelers.

Is there a vegetarian option?
The tour focuses on meat dishes and pasta, so vegetarians may want to inquire beforehand or consider other options.

How long does the dinner last?
The experience lasts approximately two hours, providing a relaxed, unhurried meal.

Where is the meeting point?
The meeting point is marked by a sign for “Trattoria Vecchio Mercato” in central Florence.

Is it suitable for families?
Yes, families can enjoy this authentic experience, especially if children are comfortable with hearty Italian dishes.

In sum, this tour offers a wonderfully authentic and flavorful taste of Tuscany, served in a warm, inviting setting. It’s a perfect choice for those who want to enjoy a genuine Florentine dinner without the fuss, and who value the stories and traditions behind each dish.

You can check availability for your dates here: