Can't-miss cheap lunch (plus chocolate!)
Cioccolateria Ballerini
Why locals love it
Ballerini is the quintessential "hidden gem." It's on an unassuming corner of Borgo Ognissanti, within walking distance of Florence's center, but far from its chaos. By name, it's a chocolate shop, but the semi-secret lunch spot in the back is what drives neighborhood regulars here in droves. The pizza-by-the-slice is some of the savoriest in town!
Why you should visit it
This is lunch-on-the-go done right! Pasta and salad are typically served in plastic containers, but the unbelievably cheap pizza steals the show: you'll only need a slice or two since the crust is made from deliciously salty "schiacciata" bread, a Tuscan specialty. Post-pizza, pick up a pistachio cookie or grab a gift bag of candies as a souvenir.
Special tip
Pizza choices vary daily, but go for the one that's fresh out of the oven—you'll know which it is since they cook and dress it right in front of you!
Mon-Sa: 10:00-19:30