Florence is a city known for its rich culinary traditions, but nothing captures the essence of Tuscan cuisine better than the legendary Florentine steak, or Bistecca alla Fiorentina. This thick-cut, bone-in T-bone steak, traditionally cooked over an open flame, is a must-try for steak lovers.
If you’re looking for the best upscale Florentine steak in Florence, this guide will take you through top restaurants, cooking techniques, and essential tips to enjoy the perfect steak experience.
What Makes Florentine Steak Special?
Bistecca alla Fiorentina is not just any steak. It is a true Tuscan delicacy with strict preparation rules. Here’s what makes it unique:
✔ Sourced from Chianina cattle – This ancient Tuscan breed is known for its tender and flavorful meat.
✔ Thick-cut T-bone – The steak is at least 1.5 inches thick and weighs around 1-2 kilograms.
✔ Cooked rare – It is always charred on the outside and red on the inside for maximum juiciness.
✔ Simple seasoning – Just salt, pepper, and olive oil, letting the meat’s natural flavors shine.
✔ Grilled over wood or charcoal – Authentic Fiorentina steak is never pan-fried; it is always flame-cooked.
Now, let’s explore the best places in Florence to enjoy this upscale steak experience.
Best Upscale Restaurants for Florentine Steak in Florence
1. Osteria dell’Osso
✔ Why visit? This Michelin-recommended fine dining restaurant sources only the finest Chianina beef.
✔ What to expect: Their Bistecca alla Fiorentina is grilled over aged oak wood, enhancing the smoky aroma.
✔ Perfect pairings: Try it with Brunello di Montalcino wine for the ultimate Tuscan experience.
2. Trattoria Mario
✔ Why visit? A historic trattoria in Florence serving Fiorentina steak since the 1950s.
✔ What to expect: The steak is massive and cooked to perfection, served with fresh Tuscan sides.
✔ Perfect pairings: Goes well with Chianti Classico, another famous Tuscan wine.
3. Ristorante Buca Lapi
✔ Why visit? One of Florence’s oldest and most exclusive steakhouses.
✔ What to expect: Their Fiorentina steak is aged for 30 days for enhanced flavor and tenderness.
✔ Perfect pairings: Pair with Super Tuscan wines for a luxurious meal.
4. Perseus Firenze
✔ Why visit? Known for serving gigantic steaks with traditional Tuscan hospitality.
✔ What to expect: Their charcoal-grilled steak is crispy on the outside and perfectly red inside.
✔ Perfect pairings: Try it with Pappa al Pomodoro (Tuscan tomato bread soup) as a side.
Each of these restaurants offers an upscale steak experience, combining top-quality ingredients, expert cooking, and a fine dining atmosphere.
How to Identify an Authentic Florentine Steak
With many restaurants offering steak in Florence, it’s important to know if you’re getting the real deal. Here are some tips:
✔ Look for Chianina beef – The best Fiorentina steaks come from this special breed.
✔ Thick-cut T-bone only – If it’s too thin, it’s not an authentic Florentine steak.
✔ Charcoal or wood fire cooking – No gas grills, no frying pans – only real fire.
✔ Minimal seasoning – If it’s covered in sauces, it’s not traditional.
✔ Always cooked rare – True Bistecca alla Fiorentina is never well-done.
Ordering from a reputable restaurant ensures you get the best traditional steak experience in Florence.
How Bistecca alla Fiorentina is Cooked
The preparation of Florentine steak follows strict techniques to maintain authenticity and quality. Here’s how it’s done:
1. Choosing the Right Meat
✔ Only use Chianina beef, aged for 15-30 days to enhance tenderness.
✔ The steak should be at least 1.5 inches thick, weighing 1 kg or more.
2. Cooking Process
✔ No marinade – The steak is seasoned only after cooking.
✔ Cooked over open flames – Charcoal or wood fire for maximum smokiness.
✔ Sear on high heat – Each side is cooked for 5-7 minutes.
✔ No flipping multiple times – Only once per side to keep the juices inside.
✔ Rest before serving – The steak is rested for 5 minutes to let the juices redistribute.
The result? A crusty, smoky exterior with a juicy, rare interior – the perfect Florentine steak.
Best Wine Pairings for Florentine Steak
A premium steak deserves a premium wine. Here are the best Tuscan wines to pair with Bistecca alla Fiorentina:
✔ Chianti Classico – A bold red wine with high acidity, balancing the richness of the beef.
✔ Brunello di Montalcino – Full-bodied and complex, perfect for aged Chianina beef.
✔ Super Tuscan Wines – A mix of Cabernet Sauvignon and Sangiovese for a refined pairing.
✔ Vino Nobile di Montepulciano – A slightly softer red with deep berry notes, complementing the steak’s smokiness.
These wines enhance the flavors of the steak, making the dining experience even more luxurious.
Best Side Dishes to Serve with Florentine Steak
A classic Bistecca alla Fiorentina is often served with simple yet flavorful sides. Here are the best accompaniments:
✔ Tuscan White Beans – Cooked with olive oil and rosemary for an authentic touch.
✔ Grilled Seasonal Vegetables – Zucchini, bell peppers, and eggplants add freshness.
✔ Roasted Potatoes with Herbs – A crispy and flavorful side dish.
✔ Panzanella Salad – A bread and tomato salad to balance the steak’s richness.
Keeping the side dishes light and simple allows the steak to remain the star of the meal.
Final Tips for Enjoying Florentine Steak in Florence
✔ Book a table in advance – Upscale restaurants serving the best Florentine steaks get fully booked quickly.
✔ Trust the chef’s recommendation – If they say it should be rare, trust their expertise.
✔ Order wine from Tuscany – A proper wine pairing makes the experience complete.
✔ Enjoy the authentic setting – Florence’s traditional trattorias and high-end restaurants offer a unique dining atmosphere.
A trip to Florence is incomplete without tasting Bistecca alla Fiorentina. Whether you prefer an elegant fine-dining restaurant or a historic trattoria, this legendary steak is a must-try experience.
So, when you visit Florence, make sure to indulge in the best upscale Florentine steak and enjoy a meal you’ll never forget!