Retrobottega - Cibarie e Mescita

Retrobottega - Cibarie e Mescita is a cozy café and wine bar tucked away on Piazza de Cimatori, just steps from Florence’s bustling Piazza della Signoria. The name 'Retrobottega' (back shop) hints at its intimate, behind-the-scenes feel. The space is small and rustic, with exposed stone walls, wooden shelves lined with bottles, and a few tables inside and outside on the square. It’s part deli, part wine bar: you can buy gourmet products like olive oil, cheese, and cured meats to take home, or sit down for a glass of wine paired with a selection of cicchetti (small bites). The menu changes daily based on seasonal ingredients, featuring items like crostini with truffle honey, pecorino with pear, or prosciutto with melon. The atmosphere is relaxed and convivial, frequented by locals who stop in for an aperitivo or a quick lunch. The staff are knowledgeable and passionate about Italian food and wine, happy to recommend pairings.

Don't miss

• Sample the daily selection of cicchetti, perfect with a glass of Chianti or Prosecco.
• Browse the shelves for artisanal Italian products to take home as souvenirs.
• Sit outside on the piazza and watch Florentine life go by.
• Ask the staff for a wine tasting flight to explore regional varieties.
• Try the truffle honey crostini, a customer favorite.

Tickets & tours

Ways to visit Retrobottega - Cibarie e Mescita

Cheapest way inThe Best tour in Florence: Renaissance & Medici Tales - guided by a STORYTELLER5★ · 13,448 travelers~2 hoursFree cancellationFrom$3 per personSee dates →Most bookedThe Best Tour in Florence: Renaissance and Medici Tales4.9★ · 11,713 travelers~2 hoursFree cancellationFrom$3 per personSee dates →Private & flexibleFlorence Self-Guided Treasure Hunt & Medici Mystery Walking Tour4.9★ · 91 travelers~2 hoursFree cancellationFrom$17 per personSee dates →

Getting there

Know before you go

• Aperitivo hour typically runs from 5–7 PM, with a small buffet of snacks included with your drink.
• They offer takeaway panini and cheese plates if you want a picnic for nearby piazzas.
• Cash is preferred for small purchases, though cards are accepted for larger amounts.
• The interior is photogenic, but be respectful of other customers when taking photos.

A bit of history

Retrobottega opened in the early 2010s, founded by a group of friends who wanted to revive the tradition of the Italian 'bottega', a small shop selling quality food and drink. The location on Piazza de Cimatori has been a market square since medieval times, adding to its historic charm.