Best Restaurants In Tuscany

Written by Joeri Van Overloop

When it comes to culinary excellence, Tuscany is undoubtedly one of the top destinations in Italy. As someone who has had the pleasure of exploring the region's food scene, I can confidently say that Tuscany boasts some of the best restaurants in the country. From Michelin-starred establishments to charming trattorias, the region offers a diverse range of dining options that cater to every taste and budget.

If you're planning a food tour in Tuscany and want to indulge in the region's gastronomic cuisine, you're in for a treat. Whether you're a fan of traditional Tuscan dishes or are looking to try something new, there are plenty of restaurants that will leave you feeling satisfied. In this article, I'll be sharing some of the best restaurants in Tuscany, including some in Florence, that you won't want to miss. So, get ready to take a culinary journey through one of Italy's most delicious regions.

1. IO Osteria Personale

I had the pleasure of dining at IO Osteria Personale during my recent trip to Tuscany, and I must say it was an unforgettable experience. Located in the San Frediano neighborhood of Florence, this osteria offers innovative contemporary Italian cuisine that is sure to impress any foodie.

The young owner of IO Osteria Personale has an interesting background - a former vet with a passion for food. This passion is evident in the carefully crafted dishes that are both beautiful and delicious. The menu changes frequently to reflect the freshest ingredients available, but you can always expect a creative twist on traditional Tuscan fare.

The atmosphere at IO Osteria Personale is elegant and intimate, with a cozy dining room that seats only a few tables. The service is attentive and knowledgeable, with staff who are happy to explain each dish and make wine pairing recommendations from the extensive wine list. Speaking of wine, this restaurant is located just a few doors down from the renowned Enoteca Pinchiorri winery, so you know the wine selection is top-notch.

Contact:

Address: Borgo S. Frediano, 167R, 50124 Firenze FI, Italy

Phone: +39 055 933 1341

2. Il Canto del Maggio

If you're looking for an exceptional dining experience in Tuscany, Il Canto del Maggio in Arezzo is one of the best Tuscan restaurants to visit. This intimate restaurant boasts a beautiful location, modern decor, and an impressive menu that showcases the best of Tuscan cuisine.

As soon as I walked into the restaurant, I was struck by the elegant and contemporary decor. The large windows let in plenty of natural light, and the sleek furnishings create a sophisticated atmosphere. The staff was welcoming and attentive, and I felt right at home.

The menu at Il Canto del Maggio features a range of dishes that highlight the flavors and ingredients of Tuscany. From fresh pasta to grilled meats, every dish is expertly prepared and beautifully presented. I particularly enjoyed the local specialties, such as the ribollita soup and the bistecca alla fiorentina.

One thing that sets Il Canto del Maggio apart from other restaurants in the area is its commitment to using locally sourced, seasonal ingredients such as cured meats, local cheeses and salami. The restaurant works closely with local farmers and producers to ensure that every dish is made with the freshest, highest-quality ingredients available on the market.

Contact:

Address: Loc, Via della Penna Alta, 30/d, 52028 Terranuova Bracciolini AR, Italy

Phone: +39 333 688 5906

3. Ristorante Il Giglio

As I explore the culinary scene in Tuscany, I cannot help but mention Ristorante Giglio in Lucca. This Michelin-starred restaurant is housed in an 18th-century palazzo, and its avant-garde dishes are so inventive and prepared so exquisitely that they truly are works of art.

I was impressed by the creativity of the menu, which showcases the best of the Lucca's region ingredients. The seafood dishes are particularly noteworthy, and the fish soup is a must-try. The soup is rich and flavorful, with a perfect balance of spices and herbs. It is clear that the chef takes pride in using only the freshest and highest quality ingredients.

The service at the Il Giglio restaurant is also top-notch. The staff is attentive and knowledgeable, and they are happy to provide recommendations and answer any questions you may have. The atmosphere is elegant and refined, making it the perfect spot for a special occasion or a romantic dinner.

Contact:

Address: Piazza del Giglio, 2, 55100 Lucca LU, Italy

Phone: +39 0583 494058

4. Caino

Last year I had the pleasure of dining at Ristorante Caino in Montemerano. This two-star Michelin restaurant is owned and operated by Valeria Piccini, one of the ten female Michelin-starred chefs in Italy.

The restaurant is situated in a beautiful market town on a hilltop in a rolling green landscape. The building itself is an ancient structure that overlooks the citadel. The interior is elegant and refined, with a warm and welcoming atmosphere.

The menu at the Caino restaurant is a celebration of the local cuisine of the Maremma region, with a contemporary twist. Valeria Piccini is known for her innovative approach to traditional dishes, and her use of locally sourced ingredients is exceptional. The dishes are beautifully presented, and the flavors are complex and well-balanced.

One of the highlights of my meal was the local wine selection. The sommelier was incredibly knowledgeable and was able to recommend the perfect wine to pair with each course. The wine list features a wide range of local Tuscan wines, including some lesser-known varieties that are not typically found in other restaurants.

Contact:

Address: Via della Chiesa, 4, 58014 Montemerano GR, Italy

Phone: +39 0564 602817

5. La Taverna di San Giuseppe

As I traveled through Tuscany, I stumbled upon La Taverna di San Giuseppe in Siena, a restaurant that quickly became one of my favorites in the region for serving some of the best food. This charming restaurant is located on Via Giovanni Dupre, just a short walk from the famous Piazza del Campo.

La Taverna di San Giuseppe is known for its traditional Tuscan cuisine, which includes dishes like ribollita, a hearty soup made with in-house baked bread, beans, and vegetables. The menu also features a variety of steak dishes, including the famous bistecca alla fiorentina, a thick cut of beef that is grilled to perfection.

One of the highlights of dining at La Taverna di San Giuseppe is the extensive wine selection, which includes many local Tuscan wines from the surrounding areas of Siena and San Gimignano. The restaurant also has a wine cellar that has been around since 300 B.C., making it a must-see for wine enthusiasts.

The atmosphere at La Taverna di San Giuseppe is cozy and romantic, with a beautiful interior that sets the perfect mood for a romantic dinner or a night out with friends. The service is also top-notch, with a friendly and knowledgeable staff who are happy to help you choose the perfect dish and wine pairing.

Contact:

Address: Via Giovanni Duprè, 132, 53100 Siena SI, Italy

Phone: +39 0577 42286

6. Trattoria Verdiana

Trattoria Verdiana is a family-run trattoria located in Montemerano, a small town in the Maremma region of Tuscany. The restaurant is managed by Sergio and Annarita, and it is noted for serving fresh game and local vegetables. The rustic meals served at Trattoria Verdiana are as memorable as they are authentic.

I ones had the pleasure of dining at Trattoria Verdiana during one of my holidays in Tuscany, and I must say that I was thoroughly impressed by the quality of the food and the service. The restaurant has a cozy and welcoming atmosphere, and the staff is friendly and attentive.

One of the standout dishes at Trattoria Verdiana is the focaccia bread, which is freshly baked and served warm. The bread is soft and pillowy, with a crispy crust, and it is accompanied by a delicious olive oil dip. I also highly recommend trying the Chef's specials, which change daily and are based on the freshest ingredients available.

Trattoria Verdiana is located in Montemerano, which is a charming medieval village that is worth exploring. The town is situated in the Sovana area of the Maremma region, which is known for its beautiful countryside and rich history. If you are looking for a traditional Tuscan dining experience, Trattoria Verdiana is definitely worth a visit.

Contact:

Address: Snc, Localita Ponticello, 58014 Manciano GR, Italy

Phone: +39 0564 602576

7. L’Imbuto

For a truly amazing dining experience in Tuscany, L'Imbuto in the Lucca area is one of the best places to go. This Michelin-starred restaurant is helmed by chef Cristiano Tomei, who is known for his innovative and creative dishes that combine traditional Italian cuisine with modern techniques.

Located in the former stables of the 17th-century Pfanner Palazzo-Museum, L'Imbuto offers a charming and intimate atmosphere that perfectly complements the culinary experience. The restaurant's name, which means "funnel" in Italian, is a nod to Tomei's approach to cooking, which involves funneling different flavors and textures together to create something truly unique.

The menu at L'Imbuto is constantly evolving, but always features a selection of seafood, Mediterranean, and European-inspired dishes. Tomei is also known for his vegetarian and vegan options, as well as gluten-free choices. Some of the standout dishes include the ravioli, antipasto, and parmigiano, all of which showcase Tomei's creativity and attention to detail.

One of the most popular dishes at L'Imbuto is the lampredotto, a classic Tuscan street food made from the fourth stomach of a cow. Tomei's version is elevated with a modern twist, featuring a crispy bread crust and a flavorful broth that perfectly complements the tender meat.

Contact:

Address: Piazza del Collegio, 7, 55100 Lucca LU, Italy

Phone: +39 331 930 8931

8. Enoteca Pinchiorri

Enoteca Pinchiorri is a restaurant located in the heart of Florence, Italy. It is a Michelin three-star restaurant, which means that it offers a unique and exceptional dining experience. I was privileged to dine at the Enoteca Pinchiorri restaurant, and I must say that it was an unforgettable experience.

The restaurant has an extensive wine list, which is one of its main attractions. The wine selection includes a variety of wines from different regions of Italy and other parts of the world. The staff is knowledgeable about the food and wines and can recommend the perfect bottle to pair with your meal.

Enoteca Pinchiorri offers vegetarian menus, making it an ideal place for vegetarians. The restaurant also has a terrace where you can enjoy your meal while taking in the beautiful view of Florence.

The restaurant accepts credit cards, which makes it convenient for tourists who may not have cash on hand. However, keep in mind that the prices at Enoteca Pinchiorri are on the higher side, with the average cost of a meal being around $120 - $285.

Contact:

Address: Via Ghibellina, 87, 50122 Firenze FI, Italy

Phone: +39 055 242777

9. Il Faconiere

Located in the charming town of Cortona, Il Falconiere is a Michelin-starred restaurant that offers a unique blend of traditional Tuscan food with a modern twist. The restaurant is situated on a beautiful hillside with incredible views of the Tuscan countryside, making it the perfect spot for a romantic dinner or special occasion.

The tasting menu at Il Falconiere is carefully curated by the talented chef, Silvia Baracchi, who uses only the freshest and highest quality local ingredients. The restaurant's signature dish is the pappardelle with wild boar ragù, which is a must-try for any visitor. I also highly recommend the veal chop with truffle sauce, which was cooked to perfection and simply melted in my mouth.

The wine list at Il Falconiere is extensive and features a wide selection of local and international wines. The sommelier was knowledgeable and helpful in choosing the perfect wine to pair with my meal.

The service at Il Falconiere was impeccable, with attentive and friendly staff who made me feel right at home. The restaurant has a warm and inviting atmosphere, with elegant decor and soft lighting that creates a cozy and intimate ambiance.

Contact:

Address: Località S. Martino Bocena, 370, 52044 Cortona AR, Italy

Phone: +39 0575 612679

10. Locando Il Paradiso

If you're looking for an authentic Tuscan dining experience, Locanda Il Paradiso in the small hilltop town of Chiusure is the place to be. I've been going to this restaurant all my life, and it never disappoints. The restaurant is renowned for its perfect pasta dishes, and the meat board of Tuscan cold cuts, or "tagliere toscano," is a must-try.

The menu at Locanda Il Paradiso is all about fresh, seasonal ingredients and traditional Tuscan recipes. The restaurant is located in the artichoke-growing capital of Tuscany, and you'll find plenty of artichoke dishes on the menu, including the delicious "carciofi alla giudia" (Jewish-style artichokes).

One of my favorite dishes at Locanda Il Paradiso is the "pici all'aglione," a thick, hand-rolled spaghetti-like pasta with a garlic and tomato sauce. The "tagliata di manzo," or sliced beef steak, is also excellent.

The restaurant has a cozy, rustic vibe, with stone walls and wooden beams. The service is up to par, and the wine list features some excellent Tuscan wines such as the Chianti Classico. Locanda Il Paradiso is not just a restaurant - it's an experience. If you're in Tuscany, make sure to add it to your itinerary.

Contact:

Address: Via Porta Senese, 25, 53041 Chiusure SI, Italy

Phone: +39 0577 707016