By Oriana Padilla. Cover image by Cristina Clavijo.
Whether you’re debriefing last night’s drama or just vibing with your crew, it’s always better over good coffee and delicious food. Choosing the right café can make all the difference, which is why today we’ve put together a guide to the best cafés in Florence for hot coffee and even hotter conversations.
For my friends and me, the atmosphere of a café is essential for good conversation. Throughout our time here in Florence, we’ve discovered a few cafés we can rely on for a great time—whether it’s a long Sunday brunch or a quick bite between classes.
Best Cafés in Florence: MELALEUCA
Melaleuca is an Australian-American bakery known for its all-day brunch and fresh-baked treats, especially cinnamon rolls. The diverse seasonal menu and affordable prices make it a go-to for students in Florence, offering gluten-free and vegan options as well!
This small café provides a cosy atmosphere, complemented by friendly staff and patrons, setting the mood for an unforgettable Sunday brunch with friends or a spot to debrief and chat after class. It’s perfect for catching up on all that gossip you’ve been holding in.
Located just a 15-minute walk from Ponte alla Grazie, Melaleuca provides a peaceful retreat from the hustle and bustle of the city centre, excelling in both hospitality and the quality of its flavours.
Best Cafés in Florence: LA MÉNAGÈRE
La Ménagère first opened in Florence in 1896 as a household goods store and has recently been remodelled and transformed into a restaurant that also features areas for buying flowers, home accessories, and more. However, today we will focus on the cafè.
The café is decorated with a mix of vintage and modern furniture complemented by beautiful plants, creating a delightful atmosphere from the moment you enter. The tables at the entrance of the bistro are separated by curtains, making them perfect for intimate gossip sessions. The subtle jazz music playing in the background enhances the mood, setting the scene for sharing secrets. The food will also give you something to talk about—I’d highly recommend trying the French toast!
CAFFE LIETTA
Owned by the Tacconni sisters, Caffe Lietta was created in honour of their mother Lietta Cavalli, who was an influential artist and fashion icon of the 1970s. Nestled in a charming corner of Piazza della Libertà, this café has an elegant flair; the outdoor seating area is a great place for enjoying the view and engaging in conversation.
The ambient buzz of the square provides just the right amount of background noise, ensuring you won’t feel like your conversation is being overheard. The coffee is consistently excellent, and the pastries are amazing—it’s definitely a great spot to spend the morning catching up with friends.
Best Cafés in Florence: LE VESPE CAFÉ
This lovely café, located just two blocks away from the Basilica of Santa Croce, is a delightful spot for breakfast with friends. The juices and mocktails are incredibly tasty and fresh. With a wide variety of food options available, even the pickiest eaters or those on strict diets will find something to enjoy. There is both indoor and outdoor seating, and no matter where you choose to sit, you will surely appreciate the amazing service. The mosaics inside create a beautiful blend of old and modern styles. This café is an excellent choice if you are looking for a calm atmosphere away from the tourist crowds—a perfect place to relax and chat with friends.
Let’s be honest: some conversations feel more meaningful when you’re sitting in a charming café with friends. In Florence, you have plenty of options, each offering its own unique ambience for your catch-up sessions. Whether you are having therapeutic cinnamon rolls at Melaleuca, a delicious breakfast at La Ménagère, or a great coffee at Caffe Lietta, these places truly set the vibe for an unforgettable experience.
