Finding an authentic meal within Florence's city center is almost near impossible. Because so many tourists tramp in and out, most restaurants you'll find in this area are your typical tourist trap.

But not Trattoria Gabriello, tucked in between the Duomo and Piazza della Signoria. At this restaurant, you can find some of the best pasta in Florence for a fair price – not something that can easily be done when you're in the midst of the city's great monuments and sights!

The menu features your traditional Tuscan fare, including pasta and freshly baked bread. However, the environment and helpfulness of the staff are really what make this a unique little restaurant in a city of so many good trattorias and osterias.

You'll find outdoor seating in the major piazzas, but the meals are certainly less than the quality you can get at certain ones hidden away from the crowds, and Trattoria Gabriello combines location with marvelous food options.

The casual-but-professional interior at Trattoria Gabriello — Photo courtesy of Trattoria Gabriello

One menu item to consider while you're here is the classic steak Fiorentina – Florence's favorite meat dish, cooked to a minimum.

Normally a specially prepared T-bone mixed with different herbs and spices from the area, the steak Fiorentina is a staple of a Florentine meat-lover, and Trattoria Gabriello serves it right on a delightful wooden platter and with gusto.

The several pasta dishes available are also worth a try.

After an antipasto, you'll want to consider some of the al dente options. One worth looking into is baked gnocchi, perfectly prepared in its own separate dish – often so hot to taste that you need to give it a few minutes before you enjoy. Fresh basil and tomato make this simple meal well worth the price of nine euro.

Again, you won't often find prices like these at other places within the city center.

The comfortable atmosphere is another reason to consider dining at Trattoria Gabriello. Whether you're choosing a casual date night or thinking about dinner with friends, the laid-back but professional interior of the restaurant makes for the perfect business lunch spot or a relaxed evening meal.

Professionalism is at the heart of this little trattoria, and its motto serves it well, as guests leave content and happy.

Trattoria Gabriello should require a reservation. Although it's known by few tourists, it's popular among locals, so you'll want to give a call in advance.

Located on Via della Condotta, the restaurant's open from noon until 3:30 p.m. for lunch and from 7 p.m. until 11 p.m. for dinner.