Florence Evening Food Tour with Florentine Steak & Tuscan Wine

If you’re considering a dinner in Florence that combines hearty local cuisine, excellent wine, and a touch of insider knowledge, this Florence Evening Food Tour might just be your ticket. While we haven’t done it ourselves, the glowing reviews and detailed itinerary paint a compelling picture of a well-balanced, authentic experience that captures the essence of Tuscan culinary culture.

What we love about this tour is its focus on local favorites rather than tourist traps, the variety of 14 tastings across five stops, and the small group size that promises a more intimate, personalized vibe. The central issue? It’s priced at $64.95 per person, which, considering the amount of food, wine, and expert guidance, offers good value—particularly for those eager to dig into Florence’s culinary heart.

This food adventure is best suited for foodies, wine lovers, and first-time visitors who want to explore Florence beyond the usual sights, with a taste of true local flavor. If you prefer private tours or have dietary restrictions, it’s wise to review the specific offerings and communicate your needs in advance.

Key Points

• Authentic local spots: The tour visits hidden gems loved by Florence’s residents.
• Diverse tastings: From wine and meats to Florentine steak and gelato, the experience spans a full spectrum of Tuscan flavors.
• Expert guides: Guides like Teodora or Francesco are known for their knowledge and engaging storytelling.
• Small group setting: With a maximum of 12 people, expect a cozy, friendly atmosphere.
• Cultural insights: The tour intertwines Florence history with its culinary traditions.
• Great value: Over 14 tastings, a sit-down dinner, and local wines for under $70 make this a solid foodie investment.

An In-Depth Look at the Experience

The Itinerary Breakdown

Start at Piazza della Signoria:
Your evening kicks off in Florence’s most iconic square, a hub of Renaissance art and architecture. Here, your guide introduces you to Florence’s foodie scene, sharing insights into local dining habits and history. Expect to see sculptures, the Palazzo Vecchio, and a copy of Michelangelo’s David. This setting offers a lively, vibrant start with minimal time commitment—just 10 minutes, but enough to set the scene.

The Wine Window at Buchetta del Vino:
Moving on to an ancient Florence tradition, the tour visits a wine window that dates back to Renaissance times. This is a fascinating slice of history—Michelangelo himself supposedly frequented these direct-to-public wine sales to avoid taxes. The moment is both historic and fun, with 20 minutes to sip wine and enjoy a quick snack, setting a relaxed, authentic tone.

Via dei Neri for Aperitivo at Budellino Bar:
Next, we head down Florence’s street of bites, lined with shops offering cured meats, cheeses, and hearty regional classics. The atmosphere buzzes, especially during lunchtime, and the stop here includes sampling local meats, cheeses, and seasonal dishes like pappa al pomodoro or ribollita. The reviews point out how this spot showcases the Florentine preference for spiciato meats and cheeses, a delightful regional twist.

Ponte Vecchio & Oltrarno:
Crossing Florence’s most famous bridge, you’ll head into the Oltrarno neighborhood, a lively area loved by locals. This part of the tour emphasizes Florence’s night-time charm, with narrow streets and artisan workshops. The bridge itself is a must-see, and the walk offers picturesque views of the Arno River.

Tamerò for Wine & Raviolo:
Back on track, this stop features a carefully curated wine tasting paired with a handmade raviolo. The simplicity of the ingredients and careful pairing showcase the Tuscan appreciation for quality over complexity. Reviewers mention this as a highlight, with the wines perfectly complementing the flavors.

The Main Event: Florentine Steak Dinner

Oltrarno Trattoria:
The centerpiece of the tour is undoubtedly the Florentine steak—juicy, tender, and served rare—plus roasted potatoes and local wine. The reviews rave about how “probably the best steak they’ve ever tasted” and how it’s a true reflection of Tuscan culinary identity. The wait for the steak is about 45 minutes, but in that time, you get to relax, chat, and soak in the cozy ambiance of a local trattoria. This sit-down dinner, with its generous portions, offers incredible value, especially given the quality.

Sweet Finish with Gelato & Local Tips

Gelateria Stop:
No meal in Florence is complete without gelato, and this tour ends with a visit to an artisan gelateria. The lighter, lower-fat recipes mean you can indulge guilt-free, and reviewers highlight how delicious their scoops are.

Piazza Santo Spirito:
Your tour wraps up here, where the guide shares additional insider tips for exploring Florence further. The final 5-minute walk leaves you with a sense of being truly immersed in the city’s local vibe, not just its tourist highlights.

What Sets This Tour Apart?

Guides like Teodora, Francesco, and Lorenzo are repeatedly praised for their knowledge and engaging storytelling. Reviewers mention how guides take them to hidden spots they wouldn’t find alone, adding a layer of discovery to the food experience. The small group size fosters a friendly, relaxed atmosphere, ideal for those who prefer meaningful conversations and personalized attention.

The variety of tastings—from cured meats and cheeses to the Florentine steak—is impressive. Multiple reviewers describe the steak as “off the charts delicious,” while others highlight the excellent wine pairings and thoughtful selections of local wines.

Authentic local spots are a key strength, with stops at places adored by residents rather than tourist-heavy venues. This focus on authentic experiences enhances the tour’s value, offering a real taste of Florence’s culinary DNA.

Timing and pacing are well-managed, with stops spread out comfortably over 3.5 hours. The tour extends beyond the scheduled 3 hours 30 minutes if everyone is enjoying themselves—a sign of a lively, engaging experience.

Price and Value Considerations

At $64.95 per person, considering the 14 tastings, sit-down Florentine steak dinner, and local wines, this tour offers excellent value. Private restaurant experiences of this caliber would typically cost much more, and the added insights from guides elevate the experience beyond just eating.

Many reviews mention that the quality of food and wine exceeds expectations, especially the Florentine steak, which is often described as “the best ever” by multiple travelers. The small-group setting also enhances the overall value by ensuring more personal attention and interaction.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This experience suits food lovers, wine enthusiasts, and first-time visitors eager to explore Florence from a culinary perspective. It’s particularly ideal for those wanting a relaxed, intimate experience that blends history, culture, and authentic local flavors. If you’re traveling solo, the engaging guides and friendly atmosphere make it an excellent way to meet fellow travelers. For families or groups, the moderate pace and varied stops keep everyone catered to—young ones under six can join free if not eating.

Practical Details

The tour starts at Piazza della Signoria and concludes at Piazza Santo Spirito, making it easy to access via public transportation or on foot. The small group size (maximum 12) ensures a more relaxed experience, with plenty of opportunities for questions and interaction.

The tour is moderately paced—not too strenuous, but comfortable enough to enjoy walking through Florence’s charming streets. It includes 14 tastings, a sit-down dinner, and a friendly guide, all packed into roughly 3.5 hours. Children under 6 can join free if they’re not eating, and alcohol is served only to adults—non-drinkers are catered for with alternatives.

Cancellation policy is flexible, with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, providing peace of mind in case your plans change.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for vegetarians?
Most tastings include meats and cheeses, so vegetarians should specify dietary restrictions in advance. The tour primarily focuses on Tuscan meats and wines, but it’s best to contact the provider beforehand for alternatives.

Are drinks included in the price?
Yes, the tour includes a selection of Tuscan wines at various stops, including a wine pairing with raviolo and the Florentine steak.

How long is the walking?
The tour involves about 3.5 hours of walking at a leisurely pace, exploring Florence’s historic districts and picturesque streets.

Can I join if I have dietary restrictions or allergies?
Specific dietary requirements should be communicated at booking. However, some allergies might not be accommodated, so check with the provider ahead of time.

Is it suitable for children?
Children under 6 who will not eat can join for free. Families with older kids will enjoy the mix of food, history, and scenic strolls, but the focus on wine and adult topics means it’s best suited for older children and teens.

What’s the dress code?
Comfortable shoes are recommended due to walking, and dress appropriately for the weather. No specific dress code applies.

What if it rains?
The tour is mostly outdoors, but stops indoors or under cover will be scheduled if needed. Check the weather forecast and communicate any concerns with the provider.

The Florence Evening Food Tour with Florentine Steak & Tuscan Wine offers a wonderful way to combine Florence’s culinary delights with its vibrant neighborhoods and history. The mix of authentic spots, expert guides, and generous tastings makes it a solid choice for those wanting an immersive, delicious experience.

If you’re a foodie eager to taste the real Florence, want to learn about local traditions, or simply enjoy good wine and hearty steak, this tour is well worth the modest price. The small group setting ensures an intimate, engaging atmosphere, perfect for creating memorable moments in Italy’s Renaissance city.

Whether it’s your first trip or a return visit, this experience helps you see Florence through both a cultural and culinary lens—a true flavor of Italy you’ll carry home.

{Note: This review is based on detailed tour descriptions, reviews, and available information. Always check current details with the provider before booking.}