Eateries We Love - Trattoria Mario in Florence by Remy Duscher

As traditional and Italian as it’s namesake, this tiny lunchtime trattoria (open 12-3:30pm Monday-Saturday) hidden beyond more flashy and expensive restaurants has been servicing hungry locals and tourists alike for almost 60 years. And it hasn’t lost its way.

We arrive later than most at 2pm and are told the wait should be no longer than 20 minutes. The attitude is warm and friendly without the clout and elitism often accompanying we’re-good-and-we-know-it eateries. Sitting at the communal dining table, we tuck into the Bistecca alla Florentina (served rare only) though I make a mental note to try the roast pork on the next visit (nb: no pizza!). It’s tender and fresh, and rightly so given it’s a stone’s throw from the city’s central food market.

My only suggestion is that you don’t eat here on arrival in Florence or risk setting the bar too high for meals to follow.

Trattoria Mario, Via Rosina 2r, Florence, Italy; www.trattoriamario.com