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Your Quest for the Perfect Hazelnut Coffee in Florence
If you’re wondering where to get the best caffè alla nocciola in Florence in 2026, you’re not alone. This creamy, nutty espresso-based drink has become a must-try for coffee lovers visiting Tuscany’s capital. Unlike a simple flavored syrup addition, Florentine caffè alla nocciola is often made with real hazelnut paste or high-quality liqueur, giving it a rich, authentic taste. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the top cafés, what makes each special, and how to order like a local.
What Makes a Great Caffè alla Nocciola?
Before diving into the best spots, it helps to understand what separates a mediocre hazelnut coffee from an exceptional one. The key components are:
- Quality of espresso – A smooth, balanced shot is essential.
- Hazelnut flavor source – Real hazelnut paste or premium syrup (like Monin or homemade) beats artificial flavoring.
- Texture – The drink should be velvety, often with a light foam.
- Sweetness level – Ideally not overly sweet; the nuttiness should shine.
In Florence, many baristas prepare caffè alla nocciola by adding a teaspoon of hazelnut cream or a splash of nocciola liqueur directly into the espresso cup before pouring the coffee. This method infuses the flavor without masking the coffee’s character.
Top Cafés for Caffè alla Nocciola in Florence (2026 Edition)
After extensive tasting and local recommendations, here are the best places to enjoy this delicacy this year.
1. Caffè Gilli – Historic Elegance with a Modern Twist
Located in Piazza della Repubblica, Caffè Gilli has been serving Florentines since 1733. Their caffè alla nocciola is a standout, made with a house-made hazelnut paste that’s slightly chunky for an authentic texture. The baristas are skilled, and the atmosphere is timeless. Price: €3.50 at the table, €2.50 at the bar. Pro tip: Ask for it “con panna” (with whipped cream) for an indulgent treat.
2. Ditta Artigianale – Specialty Coffee Meets Local Ingredients
With two locations (Via dei Neri and Via dello Sprone), Ditta Artigianale is Florence’s specialty coffee pioneer. Their caffè alla nocciola uses single-origin espresso and a hazelnut syrup they craft in-house from Piedmont hazelnuts. The result is a balanced, not-too-sweet cup. Price: €3.00 at the bar. Pro tip: Pair it with their famous “sbriciolona” pastry for a perfect breakfast.
3. La Ménagère – A Stylish Spot for Coffee Lovers
This concept store and café on Via dei Ginori offers a refined caffè alla nocciola. They use a premium Italian brand of hazelnut cream and top it with a sprinkle of crushed hazelnuts. The presentation is Instagram-worthy, and the quality matches. Price: €4.00 (table service only). Pro tip: Visit during weekday mornings to avoid crowds.
4. Caffè Concerto Paszkowski – A Classic with a View
Also on Piazza della Repubblica, Paszkowski is a historic rival to Gilli. Their caffè alla nocciola is slightly sweeter, using a commercial syrup but balanced by a robust espresso. The real draw is the people-watching from the outdoor tables. Price: €3.50 at the table. Pro tip: Order it “corretto” (with a shot of grappa) for an extra kick.
5. Simbiosi – Organic and Artisanal
This organic café near Piazza Santo Spirito roasts its own beans. Their caffè alla nocciola is made with a vegan-friendly hazelnut milk and a touch of agave syrup. It’s lighter and less sweet, perfect for those who prefer a more natural taste. Price: €3.20 at the bar. Pro tip: Try their hazelnut and chocolate croissant alongside.
6. Shake Café – A Hidden Gem for Students
Near the University of Florence, Shake Café is a cozy spot loved by locals. Their caffè alla nocciola is generously portioned and uses a thick hazelnut cream that leaves a satisfying aftertaste. Price: €2.00 at the bar (one of the cheapest in town). Pro tip: It’s cash-only, so come prepared.
Comparison Table: Best Cafés at a Glance
| Café | Location | Price (Bar) | Flavor Source | Unique Feature |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Caffè Gilli | Piazza della Repubblica | €2.50 | House-made paste | Historic setting, chunky texture |
| Ditta Artigianale | Via dei Neri / Via dello Sprone | €3.00 | House-made syrup | Specialty coffee, local ingredients |
| La Ménagère | Via dei Ginori | €4.00 (table) | Premium cream | Stylish interior, crushed hazelnuts |
| Caffè Concerto Paszkowski | Piazza della Repubblica | €3.50 (table) | Commercial syrup | People-watching, historic rival |
| Simbiosi | Near Piazza Santo Spirito | €3.20 | Hazelnut milk | Organic, vegan-friendly |
| Shake Café | University area | €2.00 | Hazelnut cream | Budget-friendly, local vibe |
How to Order Caffè alla Nocciola Like a Florentine
To get the best experience, follow these tips:
- Stand at the bar – It’s cheaper and faster. You pay first, then hand the receipt to the barista.
- Specify your milk – If you want it with milk, ask for “caffè alla nocciola con latte” or “macchiato alla nocciola.” Most places default to espresso only.
- Check for homemade vs. commercial – Ask “È fatto con pasta di nocciola?” to see if they use real hazelnut paste.
- Watch the sugar – The drink is often pre-sweetened, so taste before adding sugar.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Ordering at tourist traps – Avoid cafés with multilingual menus and plastic food displays near major landmarks. They often use low-quality syrups.
- Expecting a Frappuccino – Caffè alla nocciola is a hot espresso drink, not a cold blended beverage. If you want iced, ask for “caffè alla nocciola freddo.”
- Not specifying “nocciola” – Some baristas might assume you want a plain espresso. Clearly say “un caffè alla nocciola, per favore.”
- Skipping the local favorite – Don’t just rely on online reviews; ask Florentine friends or your hotel staff for their go-to spot.
Frequently Asked Questions About Caffè alla Nocciola in Florence
Is caffè alla nocciola the same as a hazelnut latte?
Not exactly. A caffè alla nocciola is traditionally an espresso with hazelnut flavor, served in a small cup. A hazelnut latte includes steamed milk and is larger. In Florence, you can request milk to make it a latte-style drink.
Can I find vegan caffè alla nocciola in Florence?
Yes. Simbiosi offers a version with hazelnut milk, and many specialty cafés like Ditta Artigianale can make it with oat or soy milk upon request. Always confirm the hazelnut syrup is vegan (some contain honey).
What’s the best time to visit these cafés?
Morning (8–10 AM) is ideal for a fresh brew and a pastry. Afternoons can be busy, especially at tourist hotspots. For a quieter experience, try mid-afternoon around 3 PM.
Are there any cafés that serve caffè alla nocciola with a view?
Caffè Gilli and Paszkowski offer outdoor seating on Piazza della Repubblica with views of the square. For a river view, try a café along the Arno, though they are less common for this specific drink.
How much should I expect to pay?
At the bar, prices range from €2.00 to €3.50. Table service adds €1–€2. Avoid places charging over €5 for a simple espresso-based drink.
Can I buy hazelnut coffee to take home?
Yes. Ditta Artigianale sells their house-made hazelnut syrup, and some cafés offer packaged ground coffee with hazelnut flavor. Ask at the counter.
Final Thoughts on Finding the Best Caffè alla Nocciola in Florence
Finding the best caffè alla nocciola in Florence in 2026 comes down to knowing where to look and what to ask for. Whether you prefer the historic charm of Caffè Gilli, the specialty approach of Ditta Artigianale, or the budget-friendly Shake Café, each spot offers a unique take on this beloved drink. Remember to stand at the bar for an authentic experience, and don’t be afraid to ask about ingredients. Florence’s coffee culture is rich, and caffè alla nocciola is a delicious entry point. Enjoy your hunt for the perfect cup!
Photo by Michele Canciello on Unsplash
Thanks for this guide! I’m planning a trip to Florence next spring and caffè alla nocciola is on my list. Do you know if any of these cafés offer non-dairy milk alternatives for the drink?
Great question! Most traditional cafés like Caffè Gilli and Paszkowski typically use whole milk, but specialty spots like Ditta Artigianale are more accommodating. They often have oat or soy milk available—just ask for ‘caffè alla nocciola con latte di avena’ (with oat milk). La Ménagère may also accommodate, but it’s best to request it when ordering.
I tried caffè alla nocciola at Ditta Artigianale last year and it was amazing. Glad to see it still recommended for 2026. Do they still make their own hazelnut syrup?
Yes, Ditta Artigianale continues to craft their hazelnut syrup in-house using Piedmont hazelnuts. It’s a key reason their version remains so balanced and not overly sweet. Their recipe hasn’t changed, so you can expect the same quality in 2026.
Is there a big difference between having it at the bar versus at a table? The price difference seems significant.
Absolutely—ordering at the bar (al banco) is cheaper because you skip the table service charge. The drink itself is the same quality, but at the bar you’ll stand and drink quickly, which is the local custom. If you want to sit and relax, the table price includes service. For the full Florentine experience, try it at the bar first!
Can you recommend a café that’s less touristy? I’d love to avoid the crowds around Piazza della Repubblica.
Certainly! Ditta Artigianale on Via dei Neri is popular but still draws a mix of locals and tourists. For a quieter spot, try their second location on Via dello Sprone—it’s smaller and less crowded. Another option is to visit La Ménagère on a weekday morning; it’s stylish but calmer then.
What makes the hazelnut paste at Caffè Gilli ‘slightly chunky’? Is that intentional?
Yes, it’s intentional! The house-made paste at Gilli includes finely ground hazelnuts that aren’t fully smoothed out, giving the drink a subtle texture and a more authentic nutty flavor. It’s a signature touch that sets their caffè alla nocciola apart from versions made with syrups.
I’m gluten-intolerant. Are any of the pastries mentioned, like sbriciolona at Ditta Artigianale, gluten-free?
Sbriciolona is a traditional crumbly cake made with flour, so it’s not gluten-free. However, Ditta Artigianale often has gluten-free options like rice cakes or biscotti. It’s best to ask the staff directly. For a safe bet, stick to the caffè alla nocciola itself—it’s naturally gluten-free!
Do you know if any of these places offer caffè alla nocciola to-go? I’d like to enjoy it while walking around.
Yes, most cafés in Florence offer takeaway (da asporto). At Caffè Gilli and Paszkowski, you can order at the bar and request a takeaway cup. Ditta Artigianale also does takeaway. Note that La Ménagère is table-service only, so takeaway might not be possible there. Just ask for ‘caffè alla nocciola da asporto’.
I’m visiting in summer and prefer cold drinks. Is caffè alla nocciola available iced?
Absolutely! Many cafés will make it iced (caffè alla nocciola freddo). Just ask for ‘caffè alla nocciola freddo’ or ‘con ghiaccio’ (with ice). Ditta Artigianale and La Ménagère are especially good at preparing iced versions. The hazelnut flavor is just as delicious when chilled.