Yesterday we took our first trip to the Mercato Centrale, or the Mercato di San Lorenzo. We browsed through two gorgeous floors of fresh food, but ended up feeling unprepared and not buying much. Next time we need to go with a menu in mind and some recommendations in hand. I found a great write-up about the market on the web and I'll definitely bring "La Guida del Mercato" with me next time. This guide helps sort through the various stands of meat, fruits, veggies, nuts, olives, oils, and wines.

We were lucky (or smart) enough to pick the market's best spot for lunch, Nerbone. After we got home, I found out it's highly recommended. I had the Pasta al Ragú and Anthony tried the Manzo con Patate - he said it was one of the best things he had eaten in Florence, a real peasant stew. After reading La Guida del Mercato, I think I'll order the Panino next time.