Table of Contents
Introduction
Do you enjoy Italian food just as much as I do? Looking for an Italy food guide? Here is the ultimate Italy food guide just for you.
Today I want to share to what to eat in Pisa and Florence and Italy more generally. I am a sucker for all types of pasta, like Cacio e pepe (a dish from the heart of Rome) or Pasta al Pomodoro. Even fresh seafood or the famous Tiramisu. Now I’m not also a coffee fan but I will always make time for a Tiramisu. Oh and not let me forget the Pizza. I’m not a big fan of Pizza, but I can honestly say if I am ever in Italy a Pizza is always on the table for me to eat. I could litreally east italian food for breakfast – and I don’t even eat breakfast!
Food is half the reason I travel. Actually, it’s probs 80% the reason why I travel around the world. I love to explore new dishes, see the similarities of how someone cooks between the countries I have travelled to. Tasting food allows me to really connect deeply to the country I am in. It tells a story and builds so much connection. On my recent visit to Italy, I ate so much and I am pleased to say that Italy never disappointed.
And get this, I learnt on this trip, after being to Italy on numerous occasions, that each region in Italy has its own food speciality.
If you are looking for an in-depth Italy Vacation guide for both Pisa and Florence, have a look – Florence to Pisa Tour Travel Guide: How to Spend an Amazing Weekend
Below are some of the specialities across the Italian region that I have come across:
- Pizza Napoletana (Naples) The OG pizza. Soft, chewy base, blistered crust, simple toppings. Once you’ve had pizza in Naples, no Domino’s, Pizza Hut can ever compare.
- Pasta Carbonara (Rome) An authentic carbonara is made with pecorino cheese, egg, guanciale (cured pork cheek), and black pepper. Rich, creamy, and comforting. I made this on Cooking Travel Talks, which you can watch here.
- Risotto alla Milanese (Milan) A creamy saffron risotto that feels as luxe as it tastes. Milanese food is all about elegance, and this dish is the absolute star.
- Lasagna alla Bolognese (Bologna) Yes, the classic lasagna. Rich ragù layered with silky pasta sheets and béchamel. The ultimate comfort food and my absolute favorite.
- Bistecca alla Fiorentina (Florence) A Tuscan showstopper: a huge T-bone steak, grilled rare over charcoal. It’s massive don’t order unless you’re ready to share with others.
- Ribollita (Tuscany) A hearty bread and vegetable soup. Traditionally made to use up leftovers, it’s a rustic Italian cooking at its finest.
- Gelato (All over Italy) Not just ice cream gelato is more denser, creamier, and somehow lighter at the same time. I love Lemon or Pistachio which are the elite flavours.
- Tiramisu (Veneto region, especially Treviso) I don’t particularly like Coffee but this Espresso-soaked layered with mascarpone and cocoa dessert always wins me over.
Have you tried any of them in the list above? I imagine there are many more and as I go through Italy I will keep adding to the list. But for now lets focus on what I ate in Pisa and Florence. Because oh did I not just eat. I enjoyed too and ate my way through pasta, gelato, and some real Tuscan favourites.
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Here’s everything I ate in Italy and what I recommend you try when you go.
Sweet Treats in Florence
If you know me well, you know that I have a sweet tooth that is somewhat dangerous. I have got better over the years, but I know I do love a sweet treat. Here a few things you can try below.
- Venchi (Florence) – the authentic Italian chocolate store is like a chocolate disney land for me hehe! I treated myself to a warm chocolate crepe, and it was absolutely divine!
- Gelateria dei Neri (Florence) – This is hands-down the best gelato I’ve ever had. I went for pistachio, vanilla, and cherry don’t ask me to pick a favourite because all three were incredible. Ok maybe pistachio was my absolute fave!
Markets & Local Bites
- Mercato Centrale (Florence) – An absolute foodie paradise. After my photoshoot in Florence I was recommended to head over to Mercato Centrale and I’m glad they did. It’s like a food corner, market with food from all over the world! I had truffle pasta, that I’m still dreaming about. You’ll also find fresh produce, wine, and endless Tuscan flavours here.
Restaurant Suggestions
Two of my favourite restaurants in Florence were:
- Osteria All’Antico Mercato, super cosy, traditional, and full of locals. You can also go there for Italian food for breakfast too.
- La Giostra quite an upscale, but worth it for the food and atmosphere.
Tip: Always make reservations in Italy. The good restaurants in Italy book up quickly.
Traditional Tuscan Dishes
- Bistecca alla Fiorentina – A massive T-bone steak cooked over an open flame. Tip: if it isn’t as wide as 4 of your fingers, it’s not the real deal. So make sure it is.
- Ribollita – A hearty Tuscan soup made with vegetables, beans, and bread. I tried it at Trattoria Mario, an authentic local spot where the dish has been perfected.
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Italian Food Views
And there you have it, the ultimate Italy guide of what to eat in Pisa and Florence and Italy more generally. Italy has a wide range of diverse foods to choose from. I would personally say that Italian food is more than just a meal it’s an absolute experience. The best Italian food for breakfast, with amazing dishes like sweet gelato, breads to rich Tuscan stews, everything on what to eat in Pisa and Florence reminded me why Italy is one of the best foodie destinations in the world.
Have you ever been to Italy and tried some of their local foods? Let me know in the comments. I will be going to Venice next and can’t wait to eat the local Italian food there. If you enjoyed this Italy guide, subscribe to the blog for foodie guides like the Italy food guide and much more.
Parla presto, amico mio (Speak soon , my friend)
MBV x
