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Tucked away in a quieter nook of Florence, Trattoria da Ginone is a type of locations that feels prefer it’s all the time been there and in some ways, it has. Listed as a historic store by the town and run immediately by a mother-and-son duo, this conventional trattoria has been serving the neighborhood since 1949. It’s recognized for its unpretentious method to cucina povera (poor kitchen) and its dedication to holding issues actual, each on the plate and in environment.

It attracts a loyal mixture of locals and in-the-know vacationers. I’ve now visited twice (as soon as on a curious whim and as soon as by intention) and each occasions left me with that satisfying feeling of getting skilled one thing genuinely Florentine.

Location and Ambiance

You’ll discover Ginone only a brief stroll from Santo Spirito, nestled amongst artisan outlets and quiet residential streets. It welcomes you in with its modest signage and heat glow via the home windows.

Inside, it’s neither overly small nor spacious, simply the suitable dimension to really feel cozy with out being cramped. There’s seating each indoors and outdoors, which I appreciated on my second go to once I was fortunate sufficient to seize a desk al fresco. The area has all of the makings of a basic trattoria: white tablecloths, classic pictures, and that comforting hum of dialog. What makes it particular, although, is the relaxed, neighborly vibe that Marco and his mom Silvia domesticate. You’re not simply consuming right here, you’re entering into somebody’s well-worn rhythm of every day life.

Menu and Signature Dishes

The menu at Ginone doesn’t attempt to dazzle with fashionable aptitude. As a substitute, it leans proudly into Florentine custom with just a few daring decisions that make it a must-try in Florence. On my first go to, I ordered one of many extra adventurous objects, a plate of tripe in tomato sauce. It was gentle, savory, and surprisingly comforting, even for somebody who didn’t develop up consuming offal. The sort of dish that makes you belief the prepare dinner implicitly.

Whereas eating, I seen just a few locals consuming what seemed like vibrant inexperienced meatballs, which instantly caught my consideration. I requested the workers and discovered it was gnudi, a Tuscan dish much like ravioli, however with out the pasta shell. The identify actually means “nude.” Seems, they make it solely by particular reservation. After all, I made one for the very subsequent day. Once I returned, the gnudi (gentle ricotta and spinach dumplings wearing sage butter) have been each bit as scrumptious as that they had seemed.

Different staples embody lampredotto (cow abdomen), peposo (peppery beef stew), and ribollita, all made with an sincere hand. The menu is brief and seasonal, with specials that rotate weekly.

Style, Components, and Presentation

The whole lot I tasted felt prefer it got here out of somebody’s house kitchen, not in a country, thrown-together manner, however in a deeply practiced, assured manner. The elements communicate for themselves, and the plating by no means distracts from the meals. My gnudi have been gentle, delicate, and generously coated in sage butter that smelled like autumn. The tripe was tender, not rubbery, and had soaked up the flavour of the tomato and herbs fantastically. There’s a sort of humble richness to the dishes right here, they fill you up, not simply with meals however with a way of place.

Wine and Beverage Choice

The wine listing isn’t overwhelming however well-chosen, leaning native and pure. There have been Chiantis and different Tuscan varieties by the glass, and I appreciated that the workers supplied pairing recommendations with out being pushy. Marco himself got here by to advocate a daring pink to go along with the tripe, and it was spot-on. On my second go to, we tried a white with the gnudi that introduced out the buttery notes of the dish. It’s clear they know their wines and extra importantly, the way to match them with the temper of your meal.

Service and Buyer Expertise

Service was each environment friendly and heat. Marco has the power of somebody who grew up on this area, which he did. He’s welcoming with out being overbearing, and his mom strikes via the room with a quiet authority that speaks of many years within the kitchen. On each visits, the workers defined dishes patiently, even after we requested too many questions. The vibe is unhurried however attentive, they allow you to get pleasure from your time with out ever feeling forgotten.

Pricing and Worth

Costs right here really feel greater than honest for the standard and coronary heart you get. Parts are beneficiant, not in a touristy, outsized manner, however simply sufficient to go away you full and glad. It’s one of many few locations the place I felt like I used to be paying for true native craft, not Instagrammable aptitude.

Why Go to

For those who’re after that actual, unpolished Florentine meals expertise, Trattoria da Ginone delivers. It’s a spot for individuals who need to transcend the everyday pasta-and-gelato guidelines. Whether or not you’re a curious eater desirous to attempt conventional dishes like tripe or lampredotto, or somebody who simply needs to sit down with a glass of wine and one thing handmade, this spot hits the mark.

Ultimate Ideas and Suggestions

Positively reserve forward if you wish to attempt one thing off-menu just like the gnudi particularly within the evenings. Weekday lunches are typically quieter, however dinner fills up with locals quick. Sit outdoors if the climate permits. For those who’re undecided what to order, simply ask Marco or discover the menu on a Florence meals tour for a real style of the town.

FAQs

Do they settle for reservations?
Sure, and so they’re really useful, particularly for evenings or in order for you off-menu objects like gnudi.

Are vegetarian or gluten-free choices accessible?
There are just a few vegetarian decisions, like ribollita or gnudi, however gluten-free choices are restricted.

Is it higher for lunch or dinner?
Each are nice, however dinner has a bit extra power and a wider collection of specials.

Is it family-friendly or higher for {couples}/small teams?
Very family-friendly. Tables are comfortably spaced, and workers are heat with youngsters.

Do they provide takeaway or desserts to-go?
Takeaway choices are restricted, however you possibly can ask. They generally supply desserts or biscotti to take with you.

Sources:

Consuming Europe. (n.d.). Florence meals: A information to what to eat in Florence. Consuming Europe. Retrieved September 9, 2025, from https://www.eatingeurope.com/weblog/florence-food/

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

Ginone. (n.d.). Ginone. Ginone. Retrieved September 9, 2025, from https://ginone.it/