Squishy, slushy, slimy: you’d never use these words to describe a refined delicacy, right? Well, prepare to change your mind! Lampredotto in Florence will prove you wrong in the best of ways.
Florentines have mastered the art of making every part of the animal edible—even delicious, we’d argue. And how can you prove us wrong, when lampredotto just…exists?
Join us to discover where to eat lampredotto in Florence—and if you’re wondering what lampredotto even is, we’ve got you covered!
What Is Lampredotto?
Most people might not want a lampredotto to appear in their Instagram feed. Have you ever seen one? It’s a messy bulk of greasy meat, covered with a green slime, squished in a panino.
If you do share that photo, you’ll also have to explain to your friends what lampredotto is, and trust us: nobody will believe you. How can you explain that it is delightful, even if it is made with the fourth stomach of a cow?
Yes, there’s more than one stomach. Yes, Florentines eat them all.
You can only do one thing: taste it for yourself. And after that, you’ll change your perspective: boiled tripe on a soft bed of panini bread dipped in just enough gravy. Add the perfect mix of salt, pepper, and salsa verde: literally green sauce, made from boiled eggs and oh-so-much oil and parsley.
If perfection was a taste, well… here it’d be.
Lampredotto in Florence, Now & Then
But beware: even if its most famous form is a tripe sandwich, lampredotto can be so much more. You can eat it off of a plate, in zimino (with vegetables) or in lasagna. You may even find it as the filling for Chinese dumplings, and it’s still delicious.
There’s no limit to what lampredotto can be, except for Florentine imagination. The secret here is the history of Florentine cuisine, mostly composed of humble, simple dishes. Many poorer Florentines couldn’t afford to waste any part of the animal—even the scariest ones.
This is why Florentine people cooked up so many ways to enjoy the little they had. Be glad they did: you’re now able to savor a unique specialty, and a locals’ favorite. It’s the perfect lunch or street food bite to give you energy while wandering around the city.
5 Top Spots for the Best Lampredotto in Florence
Florentines are famous for enjoying a good fight—may it be intellectual or a notch more physical, as in historical football. So, it should come as no surprise that the discussion on which local lampredotto place is the best is flaming hot.
To make sure that you won’t cross an angry Florentine, we’ve decided to reveal to you the five lampredotto spots you can’t miss in Florence.
Il Trippaio Di Sant’Ambrogio
Found near the university, Il Trippaio Di Sant’Ambrogio (inside Sant’Ambrogio Market, Piazza Lorenzo Ghiberti) serves up the most hipster lampredotto in Florence.
Trippaio del Porcellino “Orazio”
Trippaio del Porcellino “Orazio” (Piazza del Mercato Nuovo) is an absolute classic lampredotto spot that you must try for your own good (trust us on this one). It’s the perfect snack after visiting the nearby Mercato del Porcellino!
La Buticche di Lampredotto
A hidden gem, La Buticche di Lampredotto (Piazza Nerli) is an understated stand that makes lampredotto sandwiches worth seeking out.
Aurelio I’ Re Del Lampredotto
Located outside the city center, founder Aurelio is the self-proclaimed King of lampredotto. A little cocky, maybe, but he has his reasons. Why not try Aurelio I’ Re Del Lampredotto for yourself?
L’Antico Trippaio
L’Antico Trippaio (Piazza de’ Cimatori) is a mainstream choice for lampredotto in Florence. Found on most can’t-miss lists for lampredotto in Florence, this spot is popular for good reason.
You’re now ready to go! Share your opinion with your fellow Florentine friends… if you dare.
Update notice: This article was updated on July 12, 2023.
Want to try lampredotto with a local guide? Join our Tastes & Traditions of Florence: Food Tour with Sant’Ambrogio Market Visit to do just that! You’ll experience Florence’s exquisite culinary heritage through the vibrant neighborhoods, buzzing markets, and eclectic eateries that many visitors miss.
