Food and Wine

Tuscan cuisine is one of the wonders of this land and is the gateway to our culture. Mostly of peasant origins, the Tuscan dishes make the most of what the territory offers. Tuscan cuisine is called "povera" - poor, of humble origins - mainly because of its core ingredients, but it definitely doesn’t lack in flavours and nuances, as you will discover in this guide to traditional Tuscan cuisine.

Despite following a typical method, each recipe can vary from town to town, and even from village to village. This has to do with the way in which recipes are passed down through generations, and local pride, which is very distinctive of our region.

The cornerstones of this cuisine are aromatic herbs, fine olive oil, seasonal vegetables, meats, and unsalted bread (pane sciocco, or pane toscano), which is perfect for accompanying strong flavours like cured meats and game.

In this article, we will give you a comprehensive guide on the main categories of the Tuscan tradition: pasta dishes, meat and game, fish and seafood dishes, soups, sides, and traditional sweets. Let’s dive in!

Florence is well known for its rich history and stunning architecture, but something that can’t be missed is its outstanding cuisine, which is famous for its simple but high-quality ingredients. From award-winning restaurants to typical Trattorie, there is something for everyone. In this guide, you will find our best recommendations on three main categories: Michelin-starred, fine dining, and traditional restaurants. Keep reading, and make sure not to miss out on the best food on your next trip to Florence.