Il Bovo, Chianina beef burgers and Tuscan flavors in the heart of Florence

Short supply chain, small-scale farmers, and artisanal ingredients: the burger joint that brings the best of Tuscany to your table, with two locations in the city’s historic center

Bringing the authentic flavors of the Tuscan countryside to the heart of Florence, starting with a casual dish like the hamburger. This is the philosophy behind Il Bovo, an independent burger joint with two locations in the historic center, on Via dei Neri and Via Nazionale, which combines street food with the region’s culinary tradition through carefully selected ingredients and direct relationships with small local producers.

The idea behind the project is simple:to highlight local ingredients, telling the stories of the people and farms that help bring them to the table. As Marco Mantovani, one of the founders, explains: “Behind every cheese, every cut of meat, and every traditional specialty, there are people, places, and stories that deserve to be told. The hamburger is simply our way of sharing them.”

Il Bovo

Chianina Burger with Local Ingredients

The star of the menu is Chianina beef, one of the most iconic breeds of cattle in the Tuscan tradition, chosen to create a culinary experience that emphasizes the quality of the ingredients and the connection to the local area. It is accompanied by fresh bread from a Florentine artisan bakery, along with cheeses, cured meats, and other selected products sourced through a network of direct partnerships with local farms. This supply chain aims to support local businesses and showcase the region’s culinary excellence—even through a simple burger.

Among the producers involved is Podere Veridiani, a small family-run farm near Pistoia. From the Casentino region comes the pecorino cheese from Pecora Nera, where Cristian produces the cheese in his farm’s dairy and personally delivers it to the restaurant every week. The honey also has a specific origin: it comes from Selvantica Buche di Viesca, a small beekeeping operation in Reggello. The artisanal pancetta, on the other hand, is delivered in whole pieces to be sliced and cooked daily right on the premises at Il Bovo.

Il Bovo

From the Del Chianti to the Contadino: Burgers You Have to Try

The restaurant’s philosophy is reflected in the recipes on the menu, which reinterpret the flavors of Tuscan cuisine through combinations designed to highlight the ingredients. Among the offerings, the Del Chianti stands out—a burger made with Chianina beef, pecorino cheese, artisanal pancetta, and onions cooked in Chianti wine. This burger brings together some of the most iconic ingredients of regional cuisine. For those who love the contrast between sweet and savory flavors, there’s the Contadino, which pairs pecorino with honey, while the Tartufo offers a more intense combination, featuring Parmigiano cream and Tuscan truffle.

The menu also features specialties tied to lesser-known local culinary traditions, such as the bardiccio, a sausage typical of the Valdisieve region. There’s no shortage of artisanal hot dogs and fresh potatoes, cut daily right in the kitchen.

Il Bovo

The burgers are also paired with a craft Golden Ale, developed in collaboration with the Tuscan brewery L'Olmaia, located in Val d'Orcia: another choice that reinforces the restaurant’s connection to local products.

In addition to its selection of high-quality ingredients, Il Bovo is characterized by an informal, fast-casual style of service. Customers order at the counter, the kitchen is open, and dishes are prepared to order. Customers can also customize their burgers by freely choosing toppings and sauces. This concept emphasizes simplicity and a friendly atmosphere, perfect for those who want to enjoy a great burger in the heart of Florence without compromising on the quality of the ingredients.

Where to Eat Bovo Burgers in Florence: The Two Locations

Bovo is located in two prime spots in downtown Florence, with two restaurants that each have their own unique character.

Bovo at Via dei Neri, 20r is a small, casual spot just a short walk from the Uffizi and Piazza della Signoria. It’s a convenient location for visitors to the historic center looking for a casual alternative to traditional restaurants.

Il Bovo at Via Nazionale, 110r, on the other hand, is located near the Santa Maria Novella train station and the Mercato Centrale. More spacious, it’s also suitable for families and groups and offers the option to make reservations.

Il Bovo
Via dei Neri, 20r
Via Nazionale, 110r
ilbovo.com
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