Gilli 20s / 30s / 40s / After Work / Breakfast / Brunch / Business Casual / Cafés / Casual / Champagne / Chic / Cocktails / Conversational / Dessert / Dinner / Expensive / Heat Lamps / Historic / Intimate / Jeans and T-Shirt / Late Night Food / Live Band / Lively / Live Music / Locals / Lunch / Moderate / Patio / Romantic / Sandwiches / Sophisticated / Specialty Cocktails / Students / Tourists / Trendy Casual / Wine / Young Professionals / Bar / Café

My Take: The lining of Piazza della Repubblica is dotted with a delectable assortment of tiny cafes, each adding their own flair to the magnificence of the square. The most famous of these cafes is Gilli, tucked away just across the street from Hotel Savoy. Marked by glistening golden letters accompanied by a rich wooden exterior, Gilli is one of the oldest cafes in Piazza della Repubblica and the only café locals will go to amidst the sea of tourist traps around the Duomo. The Scene: As guests enter Gilli, crowds of espresso-deprived Italians huddle around the bar while savory pastries are brilliantly displayed, enticing your taste buds. As you weave your way through the crowds towards the café’s tables, keep in mind that sitting at a table requires a coperto, or cover charge, typically about 1-2 euros. Cocktails & Cuisine: Gilli serves a wide variety of pastries, sandwiches, creamy cappuccinos and espressos, as well as some specialty cocktails. It is the perfect location for tourists wanting to grab a light lunch while exploring the Duomo district or a leisurely late-night dessert. Prices: Situated in the heart of Florence, Gilli is a bit pricier than cafes farther from the tourist areas, however it will not break your wallet by any means. What to Wear: Florentines are known for their love of fashion and style, so dress accordingly whenever you are in Florence. A casual outfit of jeans and a chic blouse or shirt is the perfect attire for Gilli and exploring Florence. Insider Info/When to go: Gilli is flocked by locals getting their caffeine fix in the morning, between 8am-10am, so prepare for more people than usual around that time. I recommend visiting the café at night for dessert because that is a wonderful time to see Piazza della Repubblica light up.