Not just the Fiorentina steak: discover the 7 culinary delights of the Tuscany region and where we recommend you try them.

7 typical Tuscan foods to try

In the heart of the lush Tuscany region, a land that enchants with its fairy-tale landscapes and thousand-years-old history, hospitality is a sacred value, of which Castello Banfi Wine Resort has always been an ambassador. Here, the culture of hospitality finds its highest expression, and visitors are welcomed with professionalism and warmth. However, it is not only in hospitality that the soul of Tuscany resides, but also in its most precious treasure: food.

A plethora of authentic and genuine flavors, rooted in centuries-old culinary tradition, makes the Tuscan gastronomic experience a journey for all the senses. To fully understand the beauty of this region, it is essential to savor at least one of the 7 typical Tuscan foods that represent its essence.

Florentine steak: a great classic

But what is the most famous food of Tuscany? The "bistecca alla fiorentina" undoubtedly ranks first place in the collective imagination when it comes to typical Tuscan dishes, and it is certainly a well-deserved top spot. Cooked to perfection, this T-bone steak conceals a tender meat under a golden and crispy crust.  Generous in portion and bold in flavor, it is the result of precise and careful cooking , as well as the use of the finest ingredients , carefully selected meat from cattle raised in the green expanses of the region. It is recommended to pair it with a Brunello di Montalcino, which enhances the meat's aromas and reveals the complexity of this traditional red wines.

Not just the "fiorentina steak": here some of other delicacies of Tuscany

Here are the other Tuscan gastronomic specialties to try at least once in a lifetime.

Ribollita

One of the quintessential Tuscan dishes is "ribollita," an ancient peasant dish made with fresh vegetables, legumes, and stale bread , embodying the essence of Tuscan tradition. This soup, born as a peasant recipe handed down from generation to generation, is now revisited using locally sourced ingredients, but it still retains its authentic spirit.  Slow-cooked for hours , it is like a warm embrace for the palate, a kaleidoscope of flavors where you can taste the sweetness of the vegetables, the richness of the legumes, and the unmistakable aroma of the herbs . Paired with a Chianti Classico, its robust flavor harmonizes perfectly with the intensity of Tuscan red wines.

Pappa al pomodoro

Pappa al pomodoro , one of the quintessential dishes in Tuscany, embodies the elegance and simplicity of the region's culinary tradition: it is a symphony of authentic flavors and Mediterranean aromas The rich red hues of ripe tomatoes blend with the golden tones of Tuscan extra virgin olive oil , while garlic and aromatic herbs add depth to the dish.  The secret ingredient, stale Tuscan bread, transforms into a soft and creamy texture, enveloping the palate in a delightful embrace of pleasure.

Crostini with chicken livers paté

And when it comes to Tuscan bread and cuisine, one cannot forget to mention "crostini con fegatini" a delicate preparation that combines chicken livers, crispy bread, and a touch of aromatic flavors. With every bite, an explosion of flavors unfolds, expertly encapsulated within the velvety creaminess of this distinctive dish.

Pici (or "pinci" as they are called in Montalcino) with boar ragout

Pici with wild boar ragout are truly unforgettable. This handmade pasta, similar to thick spaghetti, is dressed with a rich and hearty wild boar ragout, which offers intense and homely flavors while remaining complex and fascinating.

Distinctive Tuscan Delicacies

A place of honor among typical Tuscan dishes is also reserved for the famous "Lampredotto" a delicacy made from veal tripe, rich in flavor and tender in texture.  This cut of meat, carefully extracted from the stomach of the animal, becomes the star of a dish that demands patience and skill in its preparation.  It represents a unique culinary experience for those who dare to venture into the realm of less conventional delights, but it remains one of the quintessential Tuscan foods.

Finally, to comprehensively answer the question of which Tuscan product is the most famous and widely consumed even outside the region, excluding the extensive selection of wines and focusing solely on Tuscan foods, the answer is: "Cantucci" with Vin Santo. These crunchy and fragrant almond cookies, perfect when dipped in Vin Santo, are among the most beloved sweets throughout the country.  The harmony between the sweetness of the cantucci and the richness of the wine creates a perfect conclusion to any Tuscan meal.

Traditional Tuscan dishes at Ristorante La Taverna 

For those who wish to fully immerse themselves in the centuries-old Tuscan culinary tradition, there is no better place than La Taverna restaurant.  Located in the shadow of Castello Banfi Wine Resort, this temple of taste offers a unique experience where typical Tuscan dishes are prepared with skill and passion, using only the highest quality local ingredients .

In this pleasant and rustic setting, you can choose between a tasting menu or à la carte options, including appetizers, first courses, main courses, and desserts.  La Taverna restaurant is the place where hospitality and Tuscan culinary tradition come to life with every bite and sip of wine.