Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
Florence's drinking scene is split between
enoteche
(wine bars that invariably make great
eating addresses too), trendy bars with lavish
aperitivo
buffets, and cafes that often double
as lunch venues.
Many bars offer
aperitivi
(predinner drinks from around 7pm to 10pm) and/or late-night
cocktails (around midnight, before clubbing), two trends embraced with gusto by
Florentines.
To savour the best of Florentine clubs, don't arrive before midnight - dance floors gen-
erally fill by 2am. In June to September everything grinds to a halt when most clubs shut.
Admission, variable depending on the night, is usually more expensive for males than fe-
males and is sometimes free if you arrive early (between 9.30pm and 11pm).
TOP OF CHAPTER
6
Around Piazza del Duomo & Piazza della Signoria
La Terrazza
(
www.continentale.it
; Vicolo dell Oro 6r; 2.30-11.30pm Apr-Sep)
This rooftop bar with wooden
decking terrace is accessible from the 5th floor of the chic, Ferragamo-owned Hotel
Continentale. Its
aperitivo
buffet is a modest affair, but no one cares - the fabulous, drop-
dead-gorgeous panorama of one of Europe's most beautiful cities is the major draw. Dress
the part or feel out of place.
BAR
Coquinarius
(
www.coquinarius.com
;
Via delle Oche 11r; crostini & carpacci €4; noon-10.30pm)
With its old
stone vaults, scrubbed wooden tables and refreshingly modern air, this
enoteca
run by the
dynamic and charismatic Igor is spacious and stylish. The wine list features bags of
Tuscan greats and unknowns, and a substantial
crostini
(toast with various toppings) and
carpacci
(cold sliced meats) menu ensures you won't leave hungry.
WINE BAR
Slowly
(
www.slowlycafe.com
;
Via Porta Rossa 63r; 9pm-3am Mon-Sat, closed Aug)
Sleek and sometimes
snooty, this lounge bar with a candle flickering on every table is known for its glam interi-
LOUNGE BAR
