The Central Market is a magical place where the past meets the fast pace of modern life. It’s a spot very dear to the Florentines, who show their appreciation for the quality products sold each day across the 100 shops on the ground floor. All products come from the Florentine plain, including unique finds that are hard to come by in modern shopping centers.
The Central Market has become a meeting point where the human element is as important as the quality of the goods sold. Experienced vendors offer customers recipes and advice rooted in Florentine cultural traditions, passed down through generations. The Tuscan culinary tradition is based on simple ingredients, yet the outcome often depends on the quality of the products used.
One key ingredient is Tuscan bread, unsalted as per tradition dating back to the 12th century, when rivalry with Pisa led to a drastic increase in the cost of salt from the Pisan plain. Bread is essential on the Tuscan table, varying in flavor and form, including the well-loved schiacciata (Tuscan olive oil flatbread).
Another defining feature of Tuscany is the cultivation of olives and production of olive oil. The Tuscan hills, as we see them today, date back to the 1800s, and Tuscan olive oil is valued both as food and as a remedy. This region hosts over 400 mills and many farms that are part of the Consortium of Tuscan Extra-virgin Olive Oil PGI.
Local Delicacies
Panzanella
One of the most typical Tuscan summer dishes is panzanella. The main ingredient is stale bread, soaked in water, then combined with fresh vegetables like cucumbers, ripe tomatoes, and basil, all chopped into small pieces. Season with olive oil, salt, pepper, and wine vinegar. The name "panzanella" may come from "panzane," or fibs, that friends would tell each other over snacks of this dish!
Pappa al pomodoroPappa al pomodoro is made with stale bread, olive oil, salt, and tomatoes. This dish gained fame thanks to the character Giamburrasca, who demanded "pappa" instead of the usual canteen food, but even before, peasants believed that eating pappa al pomodoro could prolong life!
Bruschetta al pomodoro
One of the most classic Tuscan dishes, bruschetta al pomodoro is simple yet flavorful, appealing to everyone. The only secret is in the quality of the ingredients: choose ripe tomatoes, the right bread, and a high-quality extra virgin olive oil with the intensity you prefer, along with a pinch of salt and a few basil leaves.
Local Customs, Traditions, and Must-See Events
Florentine New Year
The Florentine New Year falls on March 25 each year and is a deeply cherished celebration in Florence. This special day kicks off with a beautiful parade through the streets of Florence, featuring participants dressed in historical costumes that honor the city’s rich heritage.
San Lorenzo
The feast of San Lorenzo, co-patron saint of Florence, is one of the city’s oldest and most treasured festivals. Each year, on August 10, after a Catholic mass at the Basilica of San Lorenzo, the local neighborhood offers residents and tourists a feast of pasta with meat sauce and fresh watermelon, with festivities lasting late into the night.
INZUPPIAMOCI
The most anticipated celebration at the Central Market, INZUPPIAMOCI is an unmissable event for Florentines. Held on the ground floor of the Historic Covered Market of San Lorenzo, this event brings together historic trattorias and restaurants from the area, each offering unique Florentine recipes and specialties. Each venue prepares its own authentic Tuscan soup for guests, creating a one-of-a-kind opportunity to experience Florentine culinary culture. Enjoy delicious dishes, fine wine, expertly crafted desserts, and a joyous atmosphere.
