In need of a large coffee?
Have you ever seen a cappuccino the size of a human head? Think I’m kidding? I’m not. I promise you will not find a Starbucks venti sized coffee anywhere in Florence, but these cappuccinos come pretty close. It must be an Italian thing where they believe everyone should just gulp down an espresso rather than indulge in an oversized coffee like Americans do. At Caffè Rosanò they serve everything from cappuccinos, to americanos to lattes ranging in sizes from small, medium, large and extra-large. The larges are carefully crafted cups of white, frothy, goodness poured over layers of thick, bitter espresso into salad like bowls. I have not had the courage to order an extra-large for I fear that my stomach would not be able to handle such a size, but I urge you to try it. Pro tip: smile extra big and they might just drizzle it with warm chocolate and powder it with cinnamon.
Dairy intolerant?
It is a struggle for us non-dairy folks here in Italy. The gelato, the thick blocks of cheese in every corner window, the soft dollops of mozzarella on margarita pizzas, it is hard to resist. Trust me, I get it. Thankfully, at Caffè Rosanò they have the option of substituting soy milk in any coffee drink instead of regular milk. Hooray for no more stomach aches! Along with that they also have vegan, vegetarian and gluten free options. A healthy alternative to the typical Italian cuisine of pizza, pasta and bread. Because although all those carbs can be so delicious, there comes a time that you will do almost anything for a healthy substitution, especially a dairy free one.
Who doesn’t love a free croissant or chocolate to go?
The customer service here is unmatched. Bright, cheery faces, and “Ciaos” all around. As you walk in the dark, wooden entryway, the smell of oven baked croissants and freshly brewed coffee wafts around the small dining area, like a breath of fresh air. And if you go as often as I do, they will soon learn your name and order, so it is quite fast and easy pick me up, especially if you’re late to class. I would not recommend going any later than noon or you will find an empty display of where the croissants used to lay, an unfortunate sight to see. As a way of maintaining the influx of customers, they truly value you as one of their own, even if you are American. Mauro, the owner, always treats his guests to a free croissant or miniature chocolate bar as a thank you. That is a reason to go in all in itself!
Searching for a substantial breakfast?
What better way to cure a morning after the Italian nightlife than a nice thick, sesame bagel and a vegan cappuccino. Bagels in Florence, as I have found, are hard to come by. Here at Caffè Rosanò they have the most delicious New York style bagel, smeared with delicate cream cheese, fresh avocado and savory smoked salmon. Try pairing it with a chocolate cappuccino to experience the sweet and savory flavors all in one. Not sold? Well, they also have several different selections of fresh omelets, crispy crêpes, warm paninis and tossed salads. The menu offers a wide variety of options to fill you up and keep you energized for the rest of the day, because you definitely will be walking, a lot.
Escape wifi!
Unfortunately, this café is not the best for homework purposes, but it is great for taking in the beautiful, cobble stoned city streets of Florence and interacting with the surrounding guests. Here you can sit inside at one of the handful of square tables, or outside, purely based on personal preference and of course the weather. The outdoor seating is limited but it is located on one of the side streets off the beaten path, away from the tourist chaos. Walk around the Duomo for five minutes and you’ll know what I mean by “tourist chaos.” Without wifi it gives off the genuine appeal of what a coffee shop should feel like; filled with chatter (both Italian and American), laughter, people reading, writing and observing. Bring a good book or a journal, like I do, and check it out for yourself. Plus, this is a great place to people watch while you sip your coffee.
Hours: Monday-Friday: 7:30-4pm
Telephone: +393381541315
Location: Via S. Gallo, 29, 50129 Firenze FI