Can anyone recommend neighborhoods or restaurants and streets where the locals eat and shop? It's nice to get out of the tourist scene and eat in a more relaxed environment. We go in September.
Many here (ourselves included) prefer the Oltrarno district due to the relatively peaceful and much less frenetic vibe versus the city center, while still being a reasonable walking distance or local bus ride from the major sights.
We've stayed over there a few times and generally found that restaurants away from the main drag tended to be non- touristy.
Might be what you're looking for.
Check out this family-run restaurant in Oltrano. It’s not fancy but it is a traditional trattoria. We’ve been there twice and enjoyed the atmosphere and well-prepared food.
Leonardo's is a cafeteria is in the middle of Florence at Via dei Pecon 11.
We've eaten there a couple of times.
https://www.facebook.com/pages/Ristorante-Self-Service-Leonardo/259091687479227/
For the fantastic Florentine steak- La Buchetta is a great option. Be sure to reserve in advance.
https://labuchetta.com/
We loved this!