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Recommended Reviews - Vivoli
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The pistachio affogato was very delicious. The line was so long though it probably wouldn't have been worth it if we had to wait any longer
The hype here is real, whenever I see a viral place on social media I am always a little skeptical. However, the queue moves quickly, the staff is respectful and moves quick and most importantly the affogato is one of the best I have ever had, the gelato is perfect with the espresso. Vivoli is a cute spot tucked away but still pretty central in Florence
This place has a long line outside even before noontime. They have two entrances to serve this special drinks. The dedicated counter offers more variety of ice creams. My wife found this information on YouTube and we tracked down the store after fishing the walking tour of the city. She absolutely loves it!
All in all it was worth the long line even in the sun. The espresso is strong and even though there's ice cream in it, it doesn't cut the strong flavor. Delicious and refreshing.
I heard about Vivoli from a couple of tourists whom I was standing in line with at one of Florence's historical sites. I later saw a video about the same spot on Instagram. The seed was planted, so I made it a point to check out Vivoli when I was in the Saint Croce neighborhood. There appeared to be 3 queues at Vivoli: one for the cafe/bistro, one for the gelateria, and one specifically for affogato. I think it was possible to get the affogato from the first queue, but I stood in the affogato only line just to make sure. The queue moved pretty quickly. I probably waited around 15-20 minutes to place my order, which I did on a self-serve automated kiosk. I gave my ticket/receipt to a barista after paying, and then she started working on my drink right away. The process of making the affogato was very fast, and it was fun to watch. I noticed that unlike a regular affogato back in the USA, which is typically one big gelato scoop, Vivoli fills half a cappucino sized cup with gelato and then adds scoops around the edges to form a square shape. I got pistachio, so the gelato gets dipped into chopped pistachio bits. (The pistachio bits did add a nice texture.) Lastly, fresh espresso was poured in. Vivoli had a counter that could fit about 3-4 standing persons. Other than that, there's no where to sit inside the affogato storefront. Mostly everyone else tried to find a spot outside to enjoy their affogato. Although I did enjoy my affogato, I didn't find it particularly different than one I've tried back at home. It was just the prettiest.
I got very lucky and there was a very short line when I visited (around 5pm on a thursday). They close around 6 so that is maybe why there was no one. If the espresso bar side is closed, you can go to the gelato side and they have the pistachio and orignal there as well. The full menu is only available at the espresso bar. I ordered the hazelnut and it was delicious. I still dream of this affogato. Smooth, rich, perfect mix of sweetness and bitterness. I do think this is worth a stop if you are in Florence.
Was so lucky to pass by this place and notice a lot ladies outside photographing and talking about it. Apparently it's tik tok famous for affogato! I had not had a chance to order an affogato since I arrived in Italy. I was always ordering espresso everywhere. Of course I jet inside to the quick moving line, maybe 10 people... and ordered the pistacio affogato not regular. To my surprise it was a scoop of pistacio gelato with coffee poured in the middle. Topped with a pistacio nut rim. It was amazing and so flavorful. I could have drank 10 more. I hadn't walked Florence since I mostly did day trips so I had just one. I will remember it forever, dream about it and added to my blessed and grateful list! This is a must visit place in Florence. The decor inside is pretty and they have pastries and sandwiches too Ciao Bella!
Decided to give this popular social media trend a try. It was insanely busy with multiple lines just from a social media post. Great that their business is doing well. In terms of the affogato, it's not worth the long lines. Tasted fine for the average coffee or gelato person. But if you like your coffee bold with deep characteristics, you might be disappointed as the massive rush tends to dilute the coffee draw by the barista. Espressos are not as rich. In addition, don't think their beans are of quality either. Collectively, it tasted fine as a combo, just not worth the heat, wait, and crowd. If you enjoy a lively pool of people with concert like ambience, this might be up your alley along with social media posting. Lower that expectation and you'll enjoy the vibe. FYI, they do not serve you through the window. You can do it yourself but that's putting you on the spot on why you are there.
Was worth the wait - and for what it's worth - only took 15 minutes on a Saturday even though the line may look intimidating. There are actually two lines / stores - one with all the options on the right and one with original and pistachio options on the left. Order on the machine if you are going into the multi-option store and present your ticket. Lots of options - we got the salted caramel and original (creme) and they were so good. Such an amazing combo with the espresso!
Had to go here because my wife wanted to go try their viral Affogato. Worth it! Espresso on ice cream works so well in the heat. Very fast service. Long line, but went pretty fast.
Our second time here. The first experience wasn't too bad of a wait as we enjoyed our espresso and coffee gelato after a late lunch in Florence. This last dine-in two years after, the wait was longer as Vivoli was now internet famous for their Affogato al Caffè. This is considered a must-try, as it has creamy vanilla or pistachio gelato "drowned" in a shot of freshly brewed Italian espresso. I highly suggest consuming this dessert by alternating bites of gelato with sips of espresso, rather than mixing it. We were able to find inside seating both times but be prepared to enjoy your frozen treats and hot beverages in the plaza of the Greek Catholic church across the street.
AMAZING. not only was the affogato to die for, the gelato itself was perfection. The girls at the counter were so sweet and worked efficiently considering they're serving nonstop. The place itself gives Italy vibes. The entire experience was great, the line was long, but moved quick. If you're ordering an original affogato or the pistachio one, you can go into the gelato area and order it there instead of waiting in the line.
November 6, 2024 3PM We have been super lucky in our entire Italy trip that everywhere we went, we got in just in time where there is a lull. This was the case for Vivoli Gelato. There might have been 3 customers before us and we got right in, and shortly after the line is out the door along the sidewalk again. This is a place of must-try on everyone's Florence list and it did not disappoint. We read everywhere that adding the extra money for pistachios is not really worth it. I'm also a plain vanilla girl, so I think the pairing of plain gelato with espresso sounds a lot better than adding nuts to my coffee. Line moves fast, so don't let it deter you. Gotta get the obligatory wine window shot with my affogato. This is definitely worth the visit and the wait, but thankfully the wait was not needed for my partner and I, we're so lucky!
12 days ago
100% Recommended Very Famous Shop. I tried their Pistacchio Affogato twice. It is worth the wait in the line and the line goes fast. Unfortunately, i was not able to experience the knock on the small door to get my coffee. They also have tables and chairs inside. Even if they are very famous, they were able to preserve high quality coffee. I wanna come back for my 3rd coffee. Best PISTACHIO AFFOGATO so far. Just to share with you, this shop has an amazing and sweet crew. I can't stress enough how grateful we are to you today. I was in line for the coffee while my husband and toddlers are outside waiting, then the rained poured heavily. When I came out to find my husband, i found them soaking wet and were helped by staffs of Vivoli (at the back of their store). They let my family in the back, gave them towels and also offered shirts. If this is Italian culture, I love ITALY!!!!!!! They are so kind and hospitable. We will be forever GRATEFUL. And it will be a memory we will never forget! Grazie! From the bottom of our hearts!!! read more
As expected, this place had one of the best affogatos I've had. I happened to stop by around 4 p.m., and it was definitely busy. From what I've seen, it tends to be more crowded in the afternoon than in the morning, and that matched my experience. The line looked long at first, but there are actually two lines you can join, so it moves more efficiently than it seems. From getting in line to receiving my affogato, the whole process took about 20 minutes. Most people grab their affogato and sit along the street to enjoy it before bringing their dishes back. It's a fun, casual atmosphere and well worth the wait if you're in the area. read more
8 days ago
The pistachio affogato was very delicious. The line was so long though it probably wouldn't have been worth it if we had to wait any longer read more
The hype here is real, whenever I see a viral place on social media I am always a little skeptical. However, the queue moves quickly, the staff is respectful and moves quick and most importantly the affogato is one of the best I have ever had, the gelato is perfect with the espresso. Vivoli is a cute spot tucked away but still pretty central in Florence read more
This place has a long line outside even before noontime. They have two entrances to serve this special drinks. The dedicated counter offers more variety of ice creams. My wife found this information on YouTube and we tracked down the store after fishing the walking tour of the city. She absolutely loves it! read more
4 months ago
I heard about Vivoli from a couple of tourists whom I was standing in line with at one of Florence's historical sites. I later saw a video about the same spot on Instagram. The seed was planted, so I made it a point to check out Vivoli when I was in the Saint Croce neighborhood. There appeared to be 3 queues at Vivoli: one for the cafe/bistro, one for the gelateria, and one specifically for affogato. I think it was possible to get the affogato from the first queue, but I stood in the affogato only line just to make sure. The queue moved pretty quickly. I probably waited around 15-20 minutes to place my order, which I did on a self-serve automated kiosk. I gave my ticket/receipt to a barista after paying, and then she started working on my drink right away. The process of making the affogato was very fast, and it was fun to watch. I noticed that unlike a regular affogato back in the USA, which is typically one big gelato scoop, Vivoli fills half a cappucino sized cup with gelato and then adds scoops around the edges to form a square shape. I got pistachio, so the gelato gets dipped into chopped pistachio bits. (The pistachio bits did add a nice texture.) Lastly, fresh espresso was poured in. Vivoli had a counter that could fit about 3-4 standing persons. Other than that, there's no where to sit inside the affogato storefront. Mostly everyone else tried to find a spot outside to enjoy their affogato. Although I did enjoy my affogato, I didn't find it particularly different than one I've tried back at home. It was just the prettiest. read more
4 months ago
I got very lucky and there was a very short line when I visited (around 5pm on a thursday). They close around 6 so that is maybe why there was no one. If the espresso bar side is closed, you can go to the gelato side and they have the pistachio and orignal there as well. The full menu is only available at the espresso bar. I ordered the hazelnut and it was delicious. I still dream of this affogato. Smooth, rich, perfect mix of sweetness and bitterness. I do think this is worth a stop if you are in Florence. read more
Was so lucky to pass by this place and notice a lot ladies outside photographing and talking about it. Apparently it's tik tok famous for affogato! I had not had a chance to order an affogato since I arrived in Italy. I was always ordering espresso everywhere. Of course I jet inside to the quick moving line, maybe 10 people... and ordered the pistacio affogato not regular. To my surprise it was a scoop of pistacio gelato with coffee poured in the middle. Topped with a pistacio nut rim. It was amazing and so flavorful. I could have drank 10 more. I hadn't walked Florence since I mostly did day trips so I had just one. I will remember it forever, dream about it and added to my blessed and grateful list! This is a must visit place in Florence. The decor inside is pretty and they have pastries and sandwiches too Ciao Bella! read more
Decided to give this popular social media trend a try. It was insanely busy with multiple lines just from a social media post. Great that their business is doing well. In terms of the affogato, it's not worth the long lines. Tasted fine for the average coffee or gelato person. But if you like your coffee bold with deep characteristics, you might be disappointed as the massive rush tends to dilute the coffee draw by the barista. Espressos are not as rich. In addition, don't think their beans are of quality either. Collectively, it tasted fine as a combo, just not worth the heat, wait, and crowd. If you enjoy a lively pool of people with concert like ambience, this might be up your alley along with social media posting. Lower that expectation and you'll enjoy the vibe. FYI, they do not serve you through the window. You can do it yourself but that's putting you on the spot on why you are there. read more
Was worth the wait - and for what it's worth - only took 15 minutes on a Saturday even though the line may look intimidating. There are actually two lines / stores - one with all the options on the right and one with original and pistachio options on the left. Order on the machine if you are going into the multi-option store and present your ticket. Lots of options - we got the salted caramel and original (creme) and they were so good. Such an amazing combo with the espresso! read more
2 months ago
Had to go here because my wife wanted to go try their viral Affogato. Worth it! Espresso on ice cream works so well in the heat. Very fast service. Long line, but went pretty fast. read more
Our second time here. The first experience wasn't too bad of a wait as we enjoyed our espresso and coffee gelato after a late lunch in Florence. This last dine-in two years after, the wait was longer as Vivoli was now internet famous for their Affogato al Caffè. This is considered a must-try, as it has creamy vanilla or pistachio gelato "drowned" in a shot of freshly brewed Italian espresso. I highly suggest consuming this dessert by alternating bites of gelato with sips of espresso, rather than mixing it. We were able to find inside seating both times but be prepared to enjoy your frozen treats and hot beverages in the plaza of the Greek Catholic church across the street. read more
3 months ago
AMAZING. not only was the affogato to die for, the gelato itself was perfection. The girls at the counter were so sweet and worked efficiently considering they're serving nonstop. The place itself gives Italy vibes. The entire experience was great, the line was long, but moved quick. If you're ordering an original affogato or the pistachio one, you can go into the gelato area and order it there instead of waiting in the line. read more
November 6, 2024 3PM We have been super lucky in our entire Italy trip that everywhere we went, we got in just in time where there is a lull. This was the case for Vivoli Gelato. There might have been 3 customers before us and we got right in, and shortly after the line is out the door along the sidewalk again. This is a place of must-try on everyone's Florence list and it did not disappoint. We read everywhere that adding the extra money for pistachios is not really worth it. I'm also a plain vanilla girl, so I think the pairing of plain gelato with espresso sounds a lot better than adding nuts to my coffee. Line moves fast, so don't let it deter you. Gotta get the obligatory wine window shot with my affogato. This is definitely worth the visit and the wait, but thankfully the wait was not needed for my partner and I, we're so lucky! read more
Came here for an early afternoon caffeine kick and sure, this place became very popular so I also wanted to see if this place was worth the hype. And surely, it absolutely was! I prefer to travel in the off-season for the reason of not having crowds and fortunately enough, I was only second in line when I arrived and only a slow trickle of people that followed behind. (I hear lines can be pretty long). I opted for the Pistachio Affogato which was soooo delicious! I really wanted to try classic cream but given how wired I was after my first, I figured there will be another opportunity to come back again. The gelato was creamy, subtly sweet, with delicious warm espresso and topped with the crunchy pistachio bits...glorious. They have indoor seating as well as other baked goods and various gelato flavors. All so enticing and encouraging to come back again to Florence! read more
9 months ago
I found Vivoli on TikTok while researching my trip to Florence, it absolutely lived up to the buzz. This is a must-visit if you're in the city. The line was very long and honestly scared my friends away, but I decided to wait it out and I'm so glad I did. Vivoli is famous for their affogato, with the option of vanilla or pistachio gelato. I went with the pistachio and it was incredible! Rich, creamy, perfectly nutty, and paired so well with the hot espresso poured on top. Yes, the line is long, but it moves fairly quickly and is 100% worth the wait. read more
Absolutely a must try when in Italy!! We went here one day during our trip and the wait was actually pretty short surprisingly! We got the original and the pistachio version. Both were absolutely amazing! We would definitely go back again and recommend it to anyone in the area! read more
Prior to visiting Florence, we were told that stopping at Vivoli was a must. That was good advice since this was a unique experience. The star of this show is the affogato which translated means drowned. You can order many different flavors, but I went with the original. It's vanilla gelato in a coffee cup that's hollowed out in the center. In the center, a nice shot of espresso is added. The combination of gelato and espresso is delicious! I'm sure there are other places in Florence that make this, but Vivoli is the most well known. You can tell because the line extends out the building and down the street (although it moved fast). I agree that if you're visiting Florence, take a walk to Vivoli, it's worth it! read more
The line moved quick even though it was out the door. You pay first here and then order at the bar. We got the traditional affogato and it was absolutely stellar. There's a reason they are one of the oldest and well known! Great for a mid day pick me up or an after dinner sweet treat! read more
I found this place through social media and was excited to try it since I love affogatos. Don't bother getting the affogato with pistachio, it's not worth the extra money. Order the original affogato which is just as delicious. Be prepared to wait ~1hr in line for this drink. read more
1 year ago
Now. We. Are. Talkin'! We waited in a nice big, fat line just to get a little bit of coffee and a little bit of ice cream. I believe the term is Affogato. Is it the best espresso you've ever had? I mean, yeah, probably! Is it the best Hazelnut or Pistachio Gelato you've ever had? Well, 100%, yeah, duh. Was it the wildest diarrhea? You know it, baby ;) Didn't I mention the big fat line?! Word got out about this place and the world knows now. Thanks A LOT Instantgramme. read more
Our second time at Vivoli. The 1st time was back in 2023 when the affogato hype was non existent. In 2023 - there was no line, we were able to sit inside the shop. Ordered my fave pistachio gelato while son had cookies and cream. Today, they are living up to the hype! Line was super long at around 4pm. Waited in line for roughly 30 minutes and I will still say it was worth the wait. We had the pistachio affogato for €9 and their original flavor the la gran crema al caffe for €6. Not complaining, I know it's expensive but it's ok. If the line wasn't long, I would have gotten a second serving. Staff are understandably busy so they don't have time for chitchat but I didn't mind at all. Just trying to understand their workflow Definitely, a must try when in Florence. read more
Vivoli is a viral spot to get affogato in Florence. The line was out the door when I got here. There are 2 separate lines and stores next to each other, one for the gelato and one for the affogato bar. There's no seating inside. Most people were standing and drinking it or sitting on the curb across the street. I waited about 10ish minutes in line at the affogato bar. I ordered a plain one for 6 euros on a kiosk pad and then gave my receipt to the people behind the bar and they prepared it pretty quickly. As someone who isn't a coffee drinker, I was pleasantly surprised at how much I actually enjoyed it. The coffee mixed with the gelato was so delicious and creamy. It tasted great together and I really like it. I'm not sure if this is the best one as most gelato places have affogato, but I did like the one I got here. Some restaurant dessert menus also have the Vivoli affogato as well I noticed. If you don't want to wait in line then that is another option as well. read more
1 year ago
Omg, omg, omg the pistachio affogato is everything and more. I did not know this was a highly rated area. I was on my way to a boat tour and was like wait maybe I should tryyyyy and I'm so glad I did. The service was awesome. Everyone was kind and helpful. I so wish I had one right about now. If you're in the area, it's a must try! read more
11 months ago
This spot has so much hype on tiktok, and the line always looks super long. Pro tip: you can order the affogatos at the bar as well, which didn't have a line when we went. We got the pistachio affogato, which was really nice - creamy gelato with smooth espresso, and it made for the perfect afternoon pick me up. I need to have affogatos more often now :) read more
2 months ago
Great spot! Busy but worth the wait...line moves quickly. The original affogato is amazing. read more
11 months ago
Nothing beats a true Italian affogato like what is served here at Vivoli. I learned about his place via IG. I'm happy I bookmarked it and got to visit the popular spot. It's popular for a reason. Line was long but moves very quickly. It's definitely a huge tourist spot, but I didn't mind it as people-watching is always entertaining. There is indoor seating but it was so hot/humid that being indoors in a crowded space just didn't seem right to be able to enjoy these treats mid-July. We sat across the way, on the steps of a church. No tables/chairs outdoors. I just wish I had ordered double espresso since the gelato/espresso ratio was very heavy on the former. read more
Fun fun fun tasty experience! There was a line but it moved pretty quickly. You either decide on regular gelato or their specialty which is coffee and gelato in a mug. My hubs went with a double scoop gelato and I went outside the box and gave the pistachio coffee drink gelato a try and am so happy I did. It was cute, yummy and just purely fun all in one. When you're done with your cup it goes into what was formerly a wine window. Highly rec a trip to this spot while you're in Florence. read more
Again there are few places I'd wait in line for an hour+ for happily all over again and Vivoli is one of those places. There are just no words to describe how good this is. From the quality of the espresso to the quality of the gelato, every bite is heaven. To add on, it is mesmerizing watching them create the perfect affogato every single time within the store for every customer regardless of how busy they are which leads to a great ambiance. Quite expensive, but well worth it. The best affogato you will ever have. read more
10/10; this was the best affogato I've ever had and I tried this drink everywhere I could in Florence. It's the perfect balance between gelato and espresso, and it looks as beautiful as it tastes. This is a MUST TRY in Florence. read more
1 year ago
This place is so good, definitely worth the hype. The earlier you go the smaller the line is, and the line goes by pretty fast. Their affogato was so good; my husband got the original and I got the pistachio. It's everything you can hope and dream for in an affogato; the espresso itself is rich and flavorful, and the gelato is creamy and smooth. When paired together, it's the perfect balance! I liked the pistachio because it adds a nice crunchy nutty texture. We also ordered their pastries to eat with the affogato and their pastries are so good! Dont skip out on it. We ordered a croissant sandwich (which they'll toast) and the apple pastry (which wasn't too sweet). read more
6 months ago
The birthplace of the "affogato" .... still iconic....but 9 euro and a crazy line iconic? Probably not ... read more
Vivoli is 5/5. This place is SO GOOD. I really wanted to try this place after getting multiple recommendations from friends. It definitely lives up to the hype. We got the original and pistachio. Both were so good and I'm salivating as I write this review. This cafe is very popular so there's a long line always. I recommend going early but I highly recommend going here to try the affogato. Best I've ever had!! read more
2 months ago
This is one of the places in Florence that I think although it's a tourist trap it's also worth the hype. They have their world famous Affogato's. You can choose for an assortment of flavors from the original ranging all the way to chocolate or pistachio. The line can get a little bit ridiculously long, however just a tip there are two lines! Line 1: for the gelato and the original or pistachio affogatos. This line is typically shorter I got the pistachio affogato and so did my friend. It was delectable and really creamy. Even my friend who doesn't enjoy coffee loved it read more
7 months ago
The line is crazy but the affogato is to die for! Totally worth the wait. The service is fast and friendly and I hope to be back soon! read more
If you're in Florence and looking for authentic Affogato experience , Vivoli is an iconic stop that lives up to its reputation. We got the original flavor Affogato and the hype about it is spot on. Unlike some gelaterias, Vivoli doesn't display their gelato in towering, colorful heaps (which often signals artificial ingredients). Instead, the gelato is kept in traditional covered metal containers--always a good sign. The atmosphere is old-school, with a no-frills interior and a local feel. It's more about the quality of the gelato than the Instagram aesthetic, and honestly, that's refreshing. Prices are fair for the quality, especially in such a tourist-heavy city. Plan to go during off-hours ( not sure if there are one since the lines are always spiraling around) to avoid crowds and take your cup ( phone comes out , social media gets to know you were here, you take a pic or two) ( maybe you got gelato and not affogato) or cone to the nearby piazza to enjoy in peace though if you got it in their coffee cup please do return it back to the counter :) read more
We visited because my sister saw this place on Instagram -- which I instantly thought was a gimmick tourist trap. I was right. Their affogato was overly sweet and even though I ordered pistachio gelato, it tasted like vanilla. Aesthetically it's a cute little cup, but that's about all it has going for it. Much better gelato and coffee anywhere else in town. We didn't wait in the line but if there were a line, I would've been furious considering how bad the product was. read more
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More info about Vivoli
Via dell'Isola delle Stinche 7R
50122 Florence
Italy
Duomo
Directions
055 292334
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http://www.vivoli.it
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