Trattoria Sabatino

"Sabatino is a bit like your grandpa who still insists on writing checks—they simply refuse to change how they do things (and of course, this is why we love them). The Buccioni family has been running this San Frediano timewarp since 1956 with terracotta floors, a daily typewritten menu, and rusty Tuscan agriculture tools hanging on the walls. If it feels like everyone in the neighborhood knows them, that’s because they probably do. Bankers and construction workers sit next to each other in the cavernous communal dining space, flinging around greetings and sarcasm, and digging into thick-cut slices of Tuscan salami with perfectly ripe figs. Everything is delicious, but don’t expect any fancy garnishes or presentations—dining here is really like sitting down with the Italian family you wish you had. Get here at noon to secure a spot." - coral sisk, georgette jupe

"Sabatino is a bit like your grandpa who still insists on writing checks—they simply refuse to change how they do things (and of course, this is why we love them). The Buccioni family has been running this San Frediano timewarp since 1956 with terracotta floors, a daily typewritten menu, and rusty Tuscan agriculture tools hanging on the walls. If it feels like everyone in the neighborhood knows them, that’s because they probably do. Bankers and construction workers sit next to each other in the cavernous communal dining space, flinging around greetings and sarcasm, and digging into thick-cut slices of Tuscan salami with perfectly ripe figs. Everything is delicious, but don’t expect any fancy garnishes or presentations—dining here is really like sitting down with the Italian family you wish you had. Get here at noon to secure a spot." - Georgette Jupe

"Timeless restaurants like this make Florence special: Sabatino’s is a family-run, egalitarian joint that hasn’t changed much since it opened in 1956. Pasta dishes at this walk-in-only trattoria hover at 4.50 euros, while meaty mains like roast chicken clock in at a mere 5.50 euros. The simple homestyle cooking and bargain prices are a testament to Italy’s all-inclusive food culture. You don’t need to be well-off to eat well here." - Coral Sisk

"Sabatino is caught in a bit of a time warp: the Buccioni family has been serving good, honest home cooking at rock-bottom prices to locals (and latterly budget-conscious tourists) here in the western reaches of the Oltrarno since 1956, and little seems to have changed since then. Expect white walls, rustic beamed ceilings, checked table cloths, and a marble-topped counter at the entrance, where the desserts are served and bills are prepared. The menu is typed out daily on a vintage Corona—that says it all. Staunchly traditional, the menus here are as no-frills as the decor. Start with a plate of spaghetti al pomodoro or filling pasta e fagioli (pasta and bean soup) before moving on to roast guinea fowl, arista (roast pork), or rolled, stuffed chicken. Sides are basic but seasonal and fresh: mixed salad, white beans, and green salad. Desserts (tiramisu, torta della nonna) are homemade." - Nicky Swallow