Where to Celebrate Thanksgiving in Florence: A Guide to Enjoying the Holiday Spirit with Italian Flair
Thanksgiving in Florence offers a unique blend of American traditions and Italian hospitality, making it a wonderful holiday destination for expats, travelers, and locals looking to experience a different side of the Renaissance city. In Florence, Thanksgiving has become an anticipated event, with restaurants and cafes putting their own twists on classic dishes like turkey and pumpkin pie. Here’s a guide to some of the best spots to celebrate Thanksgiving in Florence this year, along with a few tips on enjoying the city during this cozy time of year.
Why Thanksgiving in Florence?
Fall in Florence is an experience in itself, with fewer tourists, cool weather, and the smell of roasting chestnuts in the air. November brings vibrant seasonal produce like mushrooms, chestnuts, and truffles to the city’s markets, while local restaurants embrace hearty Tuscan dishes. Thanksgiving in Florence gives you the chance to enjoy traditional American dishes while soaking in the historic charm and culinary richness that Florence has to offer.
Top Spots for Thanksgiving Dinner in Florence
1. Ristorante Accademia
Located near Piazza San Marco, Ristorante Accademia has become a favorite for Thanksgiving celebrations. Their menu includes staples like pumpkin soup, roast turkey with stuffing, mashed potatoes, and seasonal pies. Reservations are essential due to the popularity of their holiday dinners.
- Address: Piazza San Marco 7R
- Website: http://www.ristoranteaccademia.it
2. Hard Rock Cafe Florence
For an all-American vibe, the Hard Rock Cafe offers a traditional Thanksgiving feast with a menu that includes slow-roasted turkey breast, cranberry sauce, and classic pumpkin pie. They also offer children’s menus and group discounts, making it a good option for families and friends celebrating together.
- Address: Via dei Brunelleschi 1
- Website: https://www.hardrockcafe.com/location/florence/)
3. Melaleuca
A cozy riverside cafe, Melaleuca offers dine-in and takeout Thanksgiving options with a menu featuring turkey, sweet potato crumble, and a variety of pies. Known for its warm and family-friendly atmosphere, it’s perfect for a relaxed holiday meal.
- Address: Lungarno delle Grazie 18
- Website: https://melaleucaflorence.it/
4. The Place Firenze
For those seeking an upscale experience, The Place Firenze offers a four-course Thanksgiving meal that combines American holiday classics with Florentine sophistication, served in an elegant setting right on Piazza Santa Maria Novella.
- Address: Piazza Santa Maria Novella
- Website: https://www.theplacefirenze.com/
5. Harry’s Bar The Garden
Nestled within the Sina Villa Medici hotel, Harry’s Bar The Garden brings elegance to Thanksgiving with a menu that includes roasted turkey and all the trimmings, prepared with an Italian twist. Their garden setting offers a serene and stylish dining atmosphere.
- Address: Via Il Prato 42
- Website: https://harrysbarfirenze.it/en/
6. Djària
An American-style pub run by a Florentine-American couple, Djària offers a cozy Thanksgiving with roasted turkey, cranberry sauce, and classic pies. The atmosphere is friendly and warm, making it ideal for a laid-back holiday meal with friends or family.
- Address: Via dei Serragli 100R
- Website: https://www.djaria.it/
7. The Dolce Vita Experience at Beast Gallery
The Dolce Vita Experience brings Thanksgiving to the artsy Beast Gallery with a family-style dinner that includes herb-butter roasted turkey, creamy mashed potatoes, and seasonal pies. They also offer takeaway options if you prefer a more private celebration.
- Address: Via di Mezzo, 40/A
- Website: https://thedolcevitaexperience.com
8. Cultural Salon at Ristorante La Spada
For a community-focused event, the Cultural Salon hosts Thanksgiving dinner at Ristorante La Spada with a menu featuring turkey, traditional sides, and pumpkin pie. Reservations and prepayment are required, creating a structured yet social environment for celebrating.
- Address: Via della Spada 62R
- Website: https://ristorantelaspada.it/it/
9. Pino’s Sandwiches
For a casual Thanksgiving treat, Pino’s Sandwiches serves a Thanksgiving sandwich and feast plate with turkey breast, chestnut stuffing, mashed potatoes, and green bean casserole. Open throughout the day, it’s ideal for those looking to grab a quick holiday bite. Pino's known as one of the best sandwich shops in Florence!
- Address: Via Giuseppe Verdi 36R
- Website: https://www.pinossandwiches.com/
Bonus: Exploring Florence in November
Thanksgiving is just one of the many reasons to enjoy Florence in November. With the cooler weather, the city feels quieter and more intimate. Visit the Mercato di Sant'Ambrogio for a taste of local fall produce like chestnuts, mushrooms, and fresh olives. Don’t miss seasonal Tuscan dishes such as ribollita (a hearty vegetable soup with bread) and Tuscan pappardelle al cinghiale (wild boar pasta), which bring the comforting flavors of Italian autumn to life.
Thanksgiving in Florence offers a one-of-a-kind experience where American holiday traditions meet the charm and warmth of Italian culture. Whether you're after a full traditional feast or a quick Thanksgiving-inspired bite, Florence has plenty of options to make your holiday memorable.
