Whilst it is basically one street down from the iconic Ponte Vecchio bridge (swarming with tourists even in the pouring rain), this local Florentine is a favorite of ours, and is set up in the most authentic setting — a converted wine cellar!. (Once a former workshop, and these are known as a ‘buca,’ hence the name.). Entering the restaurant you walk down a couple of steps and are seated at one of the few tables, where exposed bricks and low ceilings greet you, and bottles of vino line different crevices.

Off the Ponte Vecchio in one of my favorite shortcuts (tip: to avoid crowds head down this alley and you’ll pop out into the Uffizi courtyard and in front of one of the most scrumptious restaurants I’ve ever laid taste buds on). Granted, the service can be painful and sometimes, you might be in for a show if the owner and his partner are in the same room. Although, if you don’t know Italian, you’ll have little idea of the hilarity that ensues.

Inside a 13th century palazzo just footsteps from Ponte Vecchio you’ll find Osteria Buca dell’Orafo – a cozy restaurant where you can experience traditional Tuscan cuisine. This place isn’t just cozy but also unique, in fact, in ancient times, the city’s historic goldsmith shops were located here, and that’s where the restaurant’s name comes from. The restaurant is located just below street level and offers an authentic Florentine atmosphere.

The location would be modest if it were not that this “buca” is adjacent to the Ponte Vecchio, and its entrance is almost hidden, below street level. It’s impossible not to feel the influence of the magical atmosphere that corners of Florence like this one can give. Once seated at the tables, we advise you to plunder the antipasti section before immediately jumping to the main course.

Buca dell’Orafa is my top pick for adventurous eaters who are also looking to eat awesome bistecca fiorentina in Florence. Find all the traditional Tuscan foods under the sun plus plenty of offal (although the availability is determined by the day of the week and local butchers). Choose from items like brain, sweet breads, liver and more to accompany your steak.

One of my recent favorites is Buca dell’Orafo, which is located on a small alleyway off the Ponte Vecchio. It’s between the Arno, the Uffizi, and the Piazza della Signoria. This tiny restaurant offers a few tables, a stern but efficient waitstaff, and the most delicious pasta I’ve ever had in Florence, especially in the city center.

Buca dell’Orafo is hidden in a basement with a cozy feel and a no-frills menu. Highlights here include the artichoke omelet and fried cow brain, and each dish is based on Tuscan favorites. If you are willing to try a few adventurous dishes, this is the place for you.

Just steps from the Uffizi is Buca dell’Orafo, which literally translates to “Goldsmith’s cave” which is what dining their sort of feels like. They serve up hearty Tuscan fare, homemade pasta, you know the drill. Reservations recommended.

Housed in an old palace from the 1200s, La Buca dell’Orafo is an evergreen among the restaurants of Florence. Typical Tuscan cuisine in compliance with the disciplinary of the typical Florentine cuisine. Try the Florentine and ribollita.