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Tucked away on the Oltrarno facet of Florence, Pasticceria Buonamici is a third-generation household bakery that’s been quietly perfecting its craft for the reason that Nineteen Fifties. I didn’t stroll in anticipating something fancy or overly polished. As an alternative, I discovered a spot that’s genuinely rooted in routine the place locals come for his or her morning espresso and vacationers like me by accident stumble into one thing actually memorable. It’s not well-known within the flashy sense, but it surely’s undoubtedly beloved.

What units it aside is how little it tries to impress and finally ends up doing simply that. All the pieces right here feels lived-in, from the previous household pictures on the partitions to the way in which employees greet regulars by identify. It’s this unforced heat that made me need to keep longer than I deliberate.

Location and Ambiance

Pasticceria Buonamici sits on By way of dell’Orto within the Oltrarno neighborhood, an space that feels extra like somebody’s yard than a vacationer map. From the surface, it’s simple to overlook for those who’re not paying consideration. There’s no neon signal or grand show window. Only a clear, old-school façade with a easy awning.

Inside, it’s compact however stuffed with character. A glass show case takes up a lot of the counter, filled with pastries. Behind it, you’ll be able to spot the small kitchen the place all of the magic occurs. We visited as a bunch and have been truly invited into the kitchen (a uncommon deal with). Watching the bakers at work, forming a few of Florence’s greatest desserts by hand in a spotless area, was like getting into somebody’s household kitchen.

Menu and Signature Treats

All the pieces right here feels prefer it comes from a handwritten recipe e book. I had the possibility to look at their cantucci being made recent from begin to end. I don’t assume I’ve ever seen so many almonds packed into one dough. Once I took my first chew, it was nonetheless barely heat from the oven, completely crunchy however not jaw-breaking like some store-bought variations.

One other standout was the chocolate-dipped ricciarelli – mushy, almond-based cookies dusted with powdered sugar. There have been seasonal choices too, like a fig crostata, and loads of trays stuffed with biscotti and pastries prepared for takeaway. The choices don’t scream for consideration, however they completely ship when you strive them.

Espresso and Beverage Choice

The espresso was sturdy, easy, and served with out ceremony which I appreciated. This isn’t a kind of cafes the place espresso comes with foam artwork or oat milk choices. It’s a correct Italian bar setup, the place you drink your espresso standing on the counter. I additionally noticed sizzling chocolate and tea on the menu, although I didn’t strive them. The main target right here actually is on the pastries, and rightfully so.

High quality, Taste and Presentation

The flavors have been clear, targeted, and nostalgic. There’s one thing deeply satisfying about consuming one thing that doesn’t strive too laborious to be intelligent. The cantucci tasted like they have been made with precise elements not simply sugar and flour, however toasted almonds and hints of orange zest. All the pieces appeared do-it-yourself in one of the best ways: somewhat rustic, somewhat uneven, however filled with care.

Service and Native Really feel

Service was brisk however sort. The lady behind the counter patiently defined the pastries after we appeared overwhelmed. No vacationer pandering, no further effort to “promote” us something. Simply trustworthy solutions and a quiet confidence in what they bake. It felt like a real neighborhood spot, the place the individuals working there aren’t placing on a present, they’re simply doing what they’ve at all times accomplished.

Pricing and Worth

I paid lower than €2 for a freshly baked cantuccio the dimensions of my palm and simply over €1 for a powerful espresso. In comparison with a few of the extra polished, tourist-facing cafes in Florence, this place felt extremely honest. You’re not paying for branding or ambiance right here. You’re paying for one thing that was made that morning, in all probability by somebody who’s been doing it for many years.

Why Go to Pasticceria Buonamici?

For those who’re trying to expertise Florence by means of one thing apart from museums and piazzas, this place provides a distinct form of native perception. It’s ultimate for breakfast or a mid-morning pick-me-up, particularly if you wish to take one thing away and eat it on a quiet bench by the river.

It’s additionally nice for meals lovers who get pleasure from seeing the behind-the-scenes course of. That uncommon second of being invited into the kitchen left an actual impression on me. You possibly can really feel the satisfaction in each element the previous recipe notes, the bakers’ rhythm, even the scent of recent almonds within the air.

Closing Ideas and Advice

Don’t come right here anticipating frills. Come for authenticity. Attempt the cantucci whereas it’s nonetheless heat for those who can. Seize a field of blended cookies to take house, they pack fantastically and make nice presents. I’d suggest occurring a weekday morning for the quietest expertise. And for those who’re fortunate, you may simply catch them pulling a recent tray of pastries from the oven in your Florence meals tour.

FAQs

Do they provide gluten-free or vegan pastries?
There aren’t any labeled gluten-free or vegan objects, however you’ll be able to at all times ask. The employees will let you recognize.

Is there indoor seating or simply takeaway?
There’s a small space to face and luxuriate in your espresso, however most individuals take issues to-go.

Are you able to order espresso to-go?
Sure, they’ll put together your espresso or cappuccino in a takeaway cup for those who ask.

Is the situation accessible and family-friendly?
Sure, it’s simply reachable and informal sufficient for households with youngsters.

Do they provide complete desserts or containers for gifting?
Sure, fantastically packed present containers can be found particularly across the holidays.

Sources:

Consuming Europe. (n.d.). Florence desserts: 10 candy treats to not miss. Consuming Europe. Retrieved September 9, 2025, from https://www.eatingeurope.com/weblog/florence-desserts/

Buonamici. (n.d.). Buonamici Bottega. Buonamici Bottega. Retrieved September 9, 2025, from https://buonamiciabottega.firm.web site/

Consuming Europe. (n.d.). Florence meals excursions. Consuming Europe. Retrieved September 9, 2025, from https://www.eatingeurope.com/florence/