A Taste of China in Italy
Sometimes, even in the heart of Tuscany, surrounded by the intoxicating aroma of truffles and the comforting sight of perfectly plated pasta, a craving hits. A craving for the familiar, comforting, and diverse flavors of Chinese food. Florence, a city rightfully celebrated for its remarkable Italian culinary heritage, is also slowly but surely, becoming a more diverse food destination. While it might not be the first place that springs to mind when you think of dim sum or Peking duck, there are indeed hidden gems within Florence that offer a delightful taste of China. If you find yourself yearning for something beyond the typical Florentine fare, then consider this your comprehensive guide to finding the best chinese food florence has to offer.
Let’s be upfront: Chinese food in Florence, or anywhere in Italy for that matter, will have its own unique character. It’s important to go in with open expectations. You might find subtle, or not-so-subtle, influences from Italian ingredients and culinary styles. Locally sourced vegetables, olive oil instead of peanut oil, or a touch of Italian herbs finding their way into the dishes are all possibilities. This shouldn’t be seen as a drawback, but rather as a fusion that brings a unique twist to classic recipes.
The usual suspects are almost always present. Expect to find fried rice variations, numerous noodle dishes like chow mein and lo mein, crispy spring rolls, and a medley of sweet and sour preparations involving chicken, pork, or shrimp. Increasingly, restaurants are specializing in specific regional cuisines within China, from the fiery flavors of Sichuan to the delicate preparations of Cantonese cuisine. So, before you embark on your quest for the best chinese food florence has to offer, consider exploring the restaurant scene.
Unveiling Florence’s Finest Chinese Restaurants
Let’s delve into some of the city’s top contenders, places where you can satisfy your cravings and discover surprisingly authentic and delectable Chinese cuisine.
La Cina Ristorante: A Florence Staple
Located near the historic center, La Cina Ristorante has been a favorite among locals and tourists alike for many years. This popular establishment serves a wide variety of Cantonese and Sichuan dishes. The ambiance is cozy and relaxed, and the price range is moderate, making it a solid choice for a casual meal.
What makes La Cina stand out is its commitment to using fresh, high-quality ingredients and its impressive menu that spans the vast culinary landscape of China. The menu features a diverse range of options, from comforting classics to regional specialities.
The must-try dishes here are the Peking Duck (prepared with a crispy, lacquered skin), the Mapo Tofu (a spicy and flavorful Sichuan specialty), and the steamed dumplings filled with pork and ginger. The dumplings are freshly made and bursting with juicy flavor.
On the plus side, the service at La Cina is efficient and friendly, the ingredients taste fresh, and the value for money is very good. On the other hand, it can get quite crowded during peak hours, the vegetarian options, while present, could be more expansive, and the location, while not too far from the center, might require a short bus ride or taxi ride.
La Cina is ideally suited for families, groups of friends, or anyone looking for a reliable and tasty Chinese meal in Florence.
Oriental Taste: A Modern Take on Traditional Flavors
Oriental Taste offers a more contemporary approach to Chinese cuisine. Located in the Oltrarno district, known for its artisan workshops and vibrant atmosphere, this restaurant boasts a sleek, minimalist decor. It’s a bit more upscale than some of the other options, but the quality of the food justifies the slightly higher price point.
Oriental Taste focuses on highlighting fresh, seasonal ingredients and presenting dishes with artistic flair. While respecting tradition, they are not afraid to experiment with modern techniques and flavor combinations.
Don’t miss the steamed sea bass with ginger and scallions, the spicy Dan Dan Noodles, or the crispy shrimp with walnuts in a creamy sauce. The sea bass is delicate and flavorful, while the noodles offer a satisfying kick. The shrimp dish is a textural masterpiece.
The pros include the beautifully presented dishes, the use of fresh, high-quality ingredients, and the sophisticated ambiance. Possible cons include the slightly higher price point, the smaller portion sizes compared to some other restaurants, and the location, which might be a bit of a walk from the main tourist areas.
This restaurant is a great choice for a romantic dinner, a special occasion, or anyone who appreciates a more refined dining experience.
Ristorante Cinese Shanghai: A Local Secret
Tucked away in a quiet neighborhood, Ristorante Cinese Shanghai is a true hidden gem favored by locals. This family-run establishment offers authentic Shanghai cuisine at very reasonable prices. The atmosphere is simple and unassuming, but the food is incredibly flavorful and satisfying.
What makes Shanghai so special is its dedication to using traditional recipes and techniques, passed down through generations. The flavors are bold and authentic, and the portions are generous.
Be sure to try the Xiao Long Bao (soup dumplings), the pan-fried pork buns, and the braised pork belly in a sweet and savory sauce. The soup dumplings are a must-try, bursting with flavorful broth. The pork buns are crispy on the bottom and fluffy on top, and the braised pork belly is melt-in-your-mouth tender.
The advantages of this restaurant are the authentic Shanghai cuisine, the incredibly reasonable prices, the generous portions, and the friendly service. Potential downsides include the simple decor, the less central location, and the limited English spoken by the staff.
Ristorante Cinese Shanghai is perfect for budget-conscious diners, adventurous eaters, and anyone seeking an authentic taste of Shanghai.
Budget Bites: Delicious Chinese Food Without Breaking the Bank
For those who are watching their euros, don’t despair! Florence has several Chinese restaurants that offer delicious food at incredibly affordable prices. Look for lunch specials, takeaway options, and restaurants located slightly outside the city center. Restaurants often feature large portions and satisfying flavors without emptying your wallet. Look for smaller family-run establishments. These establishments often serve generous portions and tasty meals at extremely reasonable prices.
Unearthing Hidden Treasures and Local’s Preferred Spots
Don’t be afraid to venture beyond the most popular listings and explore some of the lesser-known Chinese eateries in Florence. Ask locals for their recommendations. You might discover a small, family-run restaurant serving up incredible homemade noodles or a hidden gem specializing in a particular regional cuisine. These hidden treasures often offer the most authentic and memorable dining experiences. Check local forums, blogs, and review sites for suggestions, and be prepared to step outside your comfort zone and try something new.
Essential Tips for Navigating the Menu
If you have any dietary restrictions, be sure to communicate them clearly to the staff. Saying “*Sono allergico a…*” (I am allergic to…) or “*Sono vegetariano/a*” (I am vegetarian) can be helpful. It’s also useful to learn a few basic Italian phrases for ordering food. Knowing how to say “Vorrei ordinare” (I would like to order) or “Senza glutine” (without gluten) can make your dining experience much smoother. While tipping is not mandatory in Italy, it is customary to leave a small tip (around 5-10%) for good service. For popular restaurants, particularly during peak season, it’s a great idea to book in advance.
Chinese Groceries and Takeout Adventures
For those who love to cook at home, Florence has a few well-stocked Asian grocery stores where you can find all the ingredients you need to create your own Chinese masterpieces. These stores offer a wide variety of noodles, sauces, spices, and other essential ingredients. The convenience of Chinese takeout and delivery services in Florence cannot be overstated. Numerous restaurants offer takeout options, and delivery services such as Deliveroo and Uber Eats can bring your favorite Chinese dishes right to your doorstep. This is a great option for a quick and easy meal after a long day of sightseeing.
Final Thoughts on Your Chinese Culinary Journey
So, there you have it: a comprehensive guide to the best chinese food florence has to offer. From established favorites to hidden gems, there are plenty of options to satisfy your cravings. Whether you’re seeking an authentic taste of Shanghai, a modern twist on classic dishes, or a budget-friendly meal, you’re sure to find something to delight your taste buds. If you are after something really different that might even be more adventurous than normal, then check out Ristorante Cinese Shanghai.
Don’t hesitate to explore, experiment, and share your discoveries with others. The Florence food scene is constantly evolving, and there’s always something new to discover. Now, go forth and embark on your own culinary adventure in Florence, one delicious Chinese dish at a time! And, if you discover something remarkable, please share with others. Buon appetito!
