Il Latini

Il Latini is one of Florence's most characterful and lively trattorias, found on Via dei Palchetti in the city centre and instantly recognisable by the prosciutti hanging from its ceiling and the communal tables that fill its rooms. It is a quintessential example of the exuberant Florentine trattoria, where the house Chianti flows generously, the portions are enormous and the atmosphere is sociable and loud, drawing a steady mix of locals and travellers for a typical Tuscan evening. The menu runs through the staples of Florentine and Tuscan cooking: ribollita, the bread and vegetable soup; fagioli all'uccelletto, white beans stewed with tomato and sage; bistecca alla fiorentina, the charcoal-grilled Chianina T-bone; and a range of antipasti, pasta and roast meats served in the abundant, no-nonsense style the restaurant is known for. The wine is centred on Chianti and other Tuscan reds, very much in keeping with the rustic, hearty cooking. Il Latini opens Tuesday to Sunday, primarily for dinner from the early evening, and its popularity means that arriving early or reserving, especially for groups, is sensible, as queues are common. Prices are moderate to low for the quantity of food, making it good value, and the appeal lies in the generous portions, communal seating and convivial mood rather than in subtlety or refinement. The trattoria has long been a favourite for those wanting the full, festive version of a Florentine meal, where sharing a table with strangers and working through several courses with a bottle of house Chianti is part of the experience. Il Latini suits visitors with a healthy appetite who want to experience the warm, crowded, traditional side of Florentine dining in the heart of the old city.