The appetizer, or antipasto, is served first. Bruschetta is a common antipasto and consists of chopped tomatoes, vinegar, olive oil, and basil on toasted bread. There are many, many other varieties. Try to choose whatever the specialty of the house is. Then the first plate, or Primo Piatto, is served, which consists typically of a pasta dish.
Risotto is as diverse in flavor and ingredients as there pasta counterparts.
Try as many as you can while you are in Florence. Ribollita is must-try for any soup lovers. The secondi piatti are typically meat dishes. The cows are only chosen from a certain area and the preparation of the meat is the most closely guarded secrets of butchers. There are usually many other cakes and pastries to choose from and it's equally common to just have fresh fruit.