As a family-oriented girl now living 5,000 miles away from home for the next 4 months, homesickness was inevitable. I attempted to find comfort through journaling and FaceTiming friends and family. As these methods did help improve my mood, nothing made me feel better than finding my comfort foods in Italy. For this reason, I’m going to help you skip the research by providing 5 places to experience a taste of home while in Florence.

San Tea House

San Tea House: You can ask any of my friends and they’ll tell you, Nisha is a boba girl. Near campus is a boba place called Dang and I’d go there almost everyday to study and get lunch. San Tea House reminds me so much of Dang as they have a variety of drinks (soda, tea, etc) and boba flavors (popping, tapioca, etc), the staff is so kind, and most importantly it’s super affordable (only €4.50).

Ditta Artigianale

Ditta Artigianale: Since being in Italy, I’ve learned that breakfast isn’t as big a deal here as it is in the U.S. Typically the Italian breakfast consists of an expresso and pastry. Which was fine but I missed the big breakfast of pancakes, bacon, eggs, and orange juice I used to have. But then I found Ditta and their menu had exactly what I was looking for. Having eaten such a hearty breakfast, I felt full and ready to attack the day.

Piccadilly Pizza

Piccadilly Pizza: Piccadilly Pizza is like the Dominos of Italy. The restaurant is known for its “American-Style” pizza. The sauce isn’t as sweet as traditional Italian pizza and the bread is thicker but the toppings are still local. I would truly consider it to be the best of both worlds as they are able to blend the American-Italian taste.

I’Barrocciaio

I’Barrocciaio: I’ve been to I’Barrocciaio twice now and I can already tell I’ll be there many more times. In addition to having yummy food and lovely owners, they offer student discounts so once you buy 9 sandwiches, you get the 10th free. This cute street food stand reminds me of all the food trucks that would be parked around downtown Saint Louis.

Gino’s Bakery

Gino’s Bakery: Gino’s reminds me of a bakery I used to go to as a child. There is a variety of freshly baked pastries that creates this sweet aroma inside the shop. The pastries are all set at a very affordable price and as always Gino himself is such a nice man. I especially like the almond biscotti, which has a sweet taste and crunchy texture, similar to a cookie.

Written by: Yanisha, Spring 2023 student from Bradley University