In Florence, coffee isn’t just something you grab – it’s a daily ritual woven into the rhythm of life. Our experience started with learning to use a moka pot at home. Watching the coffee slowly rise, filling the kitchen with that rich, bold aroma, felt like participating in a tradition that Italians have perfected for generations.
Mornings often began standing at the counter of a local bar, ordering a quick cappuccino and pastry. Unlike in the U.S., there’s no rushing with a to-go cup. Coffee here is meant to be enjoyed in the moment. The focus is not on the caffeine; coffee here is used as a mid-day break or perfect start to the morning. Remember, no cappuccinos after 11 am!
One of our favorite stops was Dini Caffè, where the atmosphere felt both elegant and authentically Florentine. Tucked away behind the 14th-century city walls, Dini Caffè has been roasting coffee beans since 1939 when Alberto Dini established his eponymous business. Today, operations are in the hands of his granddaughters Benedetta and Serena Nobili.
What stood out most was the simplicity: high-quality beans, precise technique, and no unnecessary extras. Italians value balance and tradition over customization, and that mindset completely changed how we think about coffee. Whether at home or in a café, every cup felt intentional – less about caffeine, more about experience.
By: Madeline Castro, Alexandra Welcome, Shelby Hunt, and Sophia Viar
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