Caffè Sant’Ambrogio

In 2011, this place was adorable: they had a great wine list, generous aperitivo and locals spilling out into the teeny square. Upon returning recently, it seems to have lost its flair and seems too close to being generic and mainstream. To be fair though, it’s still a decent wine bar and spritz-​land and the free wifi makes it a good working spot during the day!

A good friend of mine and I who took total advantage of this place’s generous aperitivo buffet may actually be the reason that the prices just recently went up (ever so slightly, but still). Sorry, world. He used to order a 3 euro small beer and then enjoy the buffet to his heart’s content. I may have done the same with the 4 euro prosecco. The place has caught on (better for them, honestly) and they have recently introduced an additional 2 euro charge for the buffet that they tack on to your drink. Completely justifiable for what you get in return. So much bang for your buck, especially compared to many other aperitivo places. In terms of quality, variety and value for the price, the buffet is one of the best in central Florence that I’ve ever come across. You’ll generally have multiple pasta dishes to choose from, roasted vegetables, a salad of some sort, cold cuts, chips, nuts, and several different «primi piatti» that they change out. In warmer weather, you can sit outside and enjoy table service at no additional charge.
Pretty sure they also do breakfast/​coffee by day but have never been for that.
Fantastic place to go for a casual evening out that you (and your wallet) won’t regret the next day :-)

Caffe’ Sant’Ambrogio was my go-​to place for aperitivo hour back when I studied abroad in Florence, and seven years later, it’s still 4 euros for a glass of prosecco and unlimited food! It was packed around 8 – 9 PM, with some people sitting outside. Along with the 4 euro wines, there are cocktails (about 6 euro), and they make a mean spritz. There was a selection of hot foods, like a seafood risotto and some other salads. Not the best food, but what do you expect for aperitivo. Great alternative to spending a lot of money on an expensive meal, especially if you’re not super hungry.