In Tuscany, a bone-in ribeye steak isn’t just a thick, hefty, delicious cut of meat. It’s the pinnacle of the region’s cuisine and it comes with a story, of course! The pride of Florence, the bone-in ribeye is called Bistecca alla Fiorentina or simply Fiorentina. The story goes that sometime in the 16th century a group of English aristocrats were attending the annual Night of San Lorenzo feast in Florence, where huge quarters of beef roasted over rows of braziers surrounding the Church of San Lorenzo. They joined the crowded tables to relish the delicious meat and soon begged for more by shouting “Beefsteak! Beefsteak!” The Florentines adopted the word as Bistecca, which is how Tuscany’s most famous dish is still known.
Apart from foggy storytelling, the incontrovertible fact is that if you come to Tuscany asking for a Fiorentina you need to keep in mind some simple and basic rules.
The meat must be Chianina, an Italian breed of white cattle raised in Valdichiana, a green Tuscan valley nestled in central Italy. Secondly, the type of the cut has to be scottona (a young female cow that has never calved). Last, but certainly not least, the cut has to be thick - about three fingers high - and grilled to be crusty on the outside and rare (al sangue) on the inside.
Here are 6 Tuscan restaurants where you can order the Fiorentina of your dreams:
Buca Lapi
Founded in 1880, Buca Lapi is the oldest restaurant in Florence and renowned for its location and traditional Tuscan food. Nestled in the ancient cellars of the fifteenth-century palace of the noble Antinori family in the center of the city, this institution is known and loved by gourmets throughout the world. The menu is famous and the wine list unique. Prices are quite above average, but you’re going to enjoy a one-of-a-kind experience where many movie stars have been hosted. Reservations are requested.
Il Latini
If you’re looking for an exuberant dining experience on long, crowded tables with loud-voiced diners, head to this historic establishment. The restaurant has been in the Latini family for four generations, offering simple and rural Tuscan food including one of the best Fiorentina in the world. This place is listed on the prestigious Michelin’s Guide and one not to miss.
Officina della Bistecca
Tuscan people enjoy their own style of generosity. At Officina della Bistecca, children under ten years old and adults over ninety receive a 50% discount! This restaurant is an offshoot of the historical Dario Cecchini Macelleria located close to Florence and therefore features a great menu reflecting many years of a butcher’s treasured traditions—including a divine Bistecca. They “use” the cow from the tip of the nose to the tail. Mr. Cecchini is looking for responsible carnivores, but vegetarians are also very welcome with menus dedicated just for them.
La Congiura Bisteccaria
Here you’ll find one of the perfect presentations of Bistecca alla Fiorentina. As a matter of fact, this is the only dish offered at La Congiura served on a hot lava stone cutting board with carrots, potatoes, fennels, and fresh Italian homemade focaccia. Your only choices are the steak’s weight and your preferred wine! Dessert and liqueurs are also memorable.
Incarne Ristorante Macelleria
More than a restaurant, InCarne is an experience. This cozy place is located in enchanting Livorno, a Tuscan city on the sea, famed as the native city of painter Amedeo Modigliani. Here each customer does not order but is served an appetizer and 21-ounce steak. The steak, cooked on wood, is accompanied by three seasonal side dishes, so you’d better be starving! Homemade biscuits and sweet wine are served for dessert.
Ristorante Trattoria Osenna
After visiting one of the most incredibly charming corners of the Val d’Orcia, near Siena, you can stop at Trattoria Osenna for cuisine made of recipes handed down for years from mothers to daughters. This restaurant combines the highest quality ingredients with true Tuscan tradition and a pinch of creativity. The Chianina steak is first shown raw, then arrives on the table at great speed with perfect cooking and served very well. Ask the expert owner for good local wines.
Barbara Benzoni
Barbara Benzoni was born in Milan and lives between Rome and Tuscany. She is devoted to USA, the land of courage and innovation. She’s Peter's super-lucky mum and Ale's wife. Cinema, art, good food and only beautiful things are the themes of her existence. With a degree in Italian literature and a Masters in Sports Management she can both enjoys books and basketball matches. In 25 years she has been organizing sport events all over the world and she’s been lucky enough to meet the greatest champs ever. Curiosity in everyday life and people are her drivers. Her personal icon is Mohammed Ali : "It's not bragging if you can back it up".