Known more commonly as Bistecca alla Fiorentina, the t-bone steak you get in Florence is world famous. It gets its name from the particular cut of meat that it is. If it is a true Bistecca alla Fiorentina, it comes from a Chianina cow, which is a breed only found in Tuscany. Since It is very difficult to find this specific type of cow and it is quite expensive, most T-bone steaks you order are not a true Bistecca alla Fiorentina.
One warning that coming when ordering this steak is that it is huge! It is mean to be shared at dinner, due to its thickness. The steak also may look undercooked when you order it, but it is cooked only for 3-4 minutes on each side, so if it looks undercooked, it’s perfect! Traditionally the steak is cooked on a wood grill. As for prices of the steak, it is usually a “pay by the kilo” system. The usual portion is one kilo, which sounds as if it is not too expensive, but expect to spend about 40 euros for one kilo!
Now that you know the facts, Here are our top 10 places to get Bistecca alla Fiorentina.
Coco Lezzone
Location: Via del Parioncino, 26R
Located in the heart of the historic center of florence, this restaurant offers a trattoria atmosphere with an extremely welcoming staff. They pride themselves on their array of traditional Florentine dishes and accurate depiction of a typical Italian meal. Along with the delicious meal, they have a wide variety of wines to pair with your savory, bistecca.
Buca Lapi
Location: Via del Trebbio, 1R (near Palazzo Antinori)
This restaurant is one of the oldest restaurants in all of Florence. It was opened in 1880, and still is full of history today. The walls are covered with delicately restored frescoes and and is overlooked by the kitchen. From the outside, it looks like a small cafe, but once inside your mind will be blown. It is recommended that you make a recommendation, but it is worth the wait for this amazing meal.
Buca Mario
Location: Piazza Degli Ottaviani, 16R (near the Santa Maria Novella Station)
This place is great for a fancier night out. They are very accommodating for larger parties and even offer larger cuts of fiorentina steak to be shared. They also carry many other delicious menu items that will suit the whole family. One of the most notable aspects of this restaurant is the quality of their Bistecca. They use a high grade of meat than other restaurants do and ensure that it is cooked to perfection.
Latini
Location: Via dei Palchetti, 6R
This kitchen prides itself on its ability to bring together all types of people from all over the world. Being the most traditional on this list, it is only fitting that it is still family run from its start. From the traditional cuisine to the wine cellar originals they pair with courses, this place is a one stop shop for some Italian food and culture.
Osteria di Giovanni
Location: Via del Moro, 22 (between Santa Maria Novella and Piazza Goldoni)
Di Giovanni is a family owned restaurant with an amazing atmosphere. This is a very nice restaurant with the trattoria feel, but nicer than paper table cloths and hanging garlic. The chef recommends a primi of ribollita (a vegetable soup with pieces of bread and cabbage) and a main course of bistecca for an amazing meal!
Mamma Gina
Location: Borgo San Iacopo, 37R (parallel to the Arno river)
This restaurant is considered to be a more touristy spot of Florence due to its location, this is still one of our top choices for Bistecca. It is a very authentic trattoria with an excellent price to quantity ratio. Located right near the Ponte Vecchio, this is the perfect place to get lunch or dinner when visiting Florence.
Regina Bistecca
Location: Via Ricasoli 6
Up until a botu a year ago, this restaurant was a bookstore. It was originally founded in 1875 and was one of the most historic book stores in all of Florence. It had been in the same location, run by generations of family up until 2018 when it moved across town. Now the location is a beautiful, traditional restaurant. The owners of the restaurant are keeping all the atmosphere to be true to what it was. Along with beautiful and historic location, this restaurant’s food is amazing!
Le Fonticine
Location: Via Nazionale, 79R (a few blocks away from the Santa Maria Novella station)
This is a larger restaurant located right near the main train station of town. At this particular restaurant, once you order a Bistecca alla Fiorentina, they will show you the exact weight and the origin in of the meat that you just bought before they cook it. They also give a little history of the steak before you order it which makes the experience that much better!
Trattoria Marione
Location: Via della Spada (near the Santa Maria Novella station)
This small trattoria is a true Italian experience. If you are looking for an evening of italian culture, you are in the right place! This well awarded trattoria offers good prices, nice staff, and fast service.
It is usually pretty crowded, but there seating in the main room, under the cellar, and outside. Bistecca alla Fiorentina is the most ordered menu item from here, so we’re sure you will love it!
Trattoria da Gozzi
Location: Piazza di San Lorenzo, 8R (right next to the church)
This historic trattoria is run by many generations of the Gozzi family. It is only open for lunch and you can not make a reservation, but service is always fast and accurate. Trust us, the wait is worth it! Compared to other restaurants that serve bistecca, this one is very cheaply priced. The menu is also all in Italian so be prepared!