Tuscany, in my opinion, is a paradise for food lovers. I've been living here for 20 years, and I'm still in love with the local dishes! The region’s cuisine is deeply rooted in history, with recipes passed down through generations and flavors that reflect the bounty of the land. For any foodie, tasting Tuscany’s authentic treats is as essential as admiring its vineyards or wandering through Florence's art-covered streets.

Whether you're joining our Florence market tour, indulging in a private food and wine experience, or simply exploring on your own, here are five must-try culinary delights that capture the essence of Tuscany.

1. Pasta – A Love Affair with Tradition

No trip to Italy is complete without pasta, and Tuscany offers unique variations that showcase the region’s diversity. Each Tuscan town has its own signature pasta dish that reveals the soul of its local kitchen. For example: In Siena, you will find Pici,  thick, hand-rolled spaghetti-like pasta, pici, is the pride of Siena. It’s traditionally served with aglione sauce, a deceptively simple yet aromatic blend of garlic, tomatoes, and olive oil. The chewy texture of pici perfectly captures the sauce, creating an unforgettable bite. In Lucca, you must try the Tordelli, a type of stuffed pasta akin to ravioli, is Lucca’s pride and joy. Filled with seasoned meat and parmesan, they’re served in a rich meat sauce that’s a testament to traditional Tuscan comfort cooking.

2. Cheese – Pecorino and Beyond

Tuscany is synonymous with pecorino, a sheep’s milk cheese that varies in flavor and texture depending on its age. Whether it’s served fresh and creamy or aged for a nutty, more intense profile, pecorino is a treat for cheese lovers. The best strategy is to try Pecorino from Local Artisanal Farms.  The quality is better, and it's a healthier product, too. Many Tuscan farms produce award-winning pecorino following traditional methods, and during our food and wine tours we often taste these exquisite cheeses and learn all about the unique production process. By the way: If you want to do more than just taste, you can even join one of my Pasta and Mozzarella & Burrata Making Classes!   

3. Gelato – The Coolest Indulgence

Gelato may sound similar to ice cream, but it’s a whole other world of creamy decadence. With less fat and churned with less air, gelato is smoother, creamier, and bursting with flavor.

• What to Look for  

  Gelato shops are on almost every corner in Tuscany, but quality varies. One way to know how good a gelateria (gelato shop) really is is to try the classic flavors like stracciatella (chocolate chip), pistachio, or vanilla—the simplicity of these flavors makes it tough for shops to hide inferior ingredients. If their pistacchio is good, then you can rest assured that they know what they're doing! Find additional recommendations for the best gelato in Florence, the best aperitivo in Tuscany, the best pizza and wineries here.

4. Meat and Charcuterie – Signature Tuscan Flavors

Tuscany’s love for meat is evident in its rustic yet luxurious dishes. Whether it’s a hearty main course or a curated charcuterie board, the region’s meats promise both comfort and rich flavors.

Tuscany is famous for its finocchiona, a salami infused with fennel seeds that delivers an aromatic kick, and prosciutto, thinly sliced, dry-cured ham that melts in your mouth. Perfect additions to an antipasto platter, these cold cuts pair beautifully with a crusty slice of Tuscan bread. Then, of course, there's the Bistecca alla Fiorentina, or Florentine steak, a culinary experience all on its own. This thick-cut T-bone is grilled to perfection over a wood fire, seasoned with just salt and a drizzle of olive oil, allowing the incredible quality of Tuscan beef to shine. If you’re a meat lover, these iconic dishes are bound to leave you craving more of Tuscany’s earthy, satisfying flavors.

5. Wine – Tuscany in a Glass

No discussion of Tuscan cuisine is complete without mentioning its world-famous wines. From rolling vineyards to historic cellars, Tuscany’s wine culture is incomparable. Tuscany’s wine portfolio includes some of the most renowned labels, such as Chianti, Brunello di Montalcino, and the world-celebrated Super Tuscans. It's very, very easy to learn more about wine in Tuscany. All you have to do is order a bottle with your meal! You will be surprised how varied and affordable the wine menu is in most restaurants. If you want to delve a little deeper, the best strategy would be to join a wine-tasting experience with a friendly sommelier, or even join one of our food and wine tours. These are a LOT of fun, and will take you to boutique wineries, cheese-making farms, and hidden hilltop villages.

Make Room for Tuscany’s Culinary Riches

Tuscany is a region that celebrates simplicity, authenticity, and the joy of sharing food. Every dish tells a story—of ancient traditions, local farmers, and the vibrant Tuscan spirit.

Whether you’re indulging in silky pici, savoring aged pecorino, cooling off with creamy gelato, or sipping on an iconic Chianti, Tuscany offers a dining experience that resonates with every foodie’s heart. One thing’s for sure—when visiting Tuscany, it’s best to arrive hungry!

Enjoy the Best Food and Wine Tours in Tuscany

If you'd like to elevate your Tuscan adventure, consider this a personal invitation to join one of our once-in-a-lifetime food experiences, including market tours in Florence, food and wine tours in Tuscany, pasta and cheese making workshops, and more. See you in Tuscany!