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There was a time when gluten-free Florence eateries have been few and much between, however luckily, that’s not the case. The vary of gluten-free choices in Florence has improved drastically through the years, and now dozens of celiac-friendly spots are scattered all through the town.

If you happen to’ve joined one among my Florence meals excursions, you’ll know that Tuscan delicacies is way more than decadent pasta and Italian bread (as dreamy as they’re!). Having stated that, while you fancy both of the above, you’ll discover loads of locations that serve alternate options for gluten-sensitive diners.

This gluten-free information to Florence is filled with all my suggestions for eating within the Renaissance metropolis as a celiac traveler.

Da Garibardi

Photograph credit score: Da Garibardi

Da Garibardi is a traditional trattoria near Mercato Centrale in San Lorenzo, with probably the most spectacular gluten-free menus within the metropolis.

Higher nonetheless, it’s permitted by the Italian Celiac Affiliation, usually shortened to AIC in Italian, which means it’s an accredited Celiac-safe spot.

On the floor, it seems like your typical old-school Florence eatery. Once I walked inside, I used to be immediately charmed by the medieval-looking stone partitions and wood beams. But, not like many eating places of this fashion, the menu was extremely accommodating for gluten-free friends.

Whilst somebody who eats gluten, I might fortunately come right here a number of occasions to strive the wheat-free takes on gnocchi, ravioli, and crostini. They even had gluten-free desserts like tiramisu, which I’m already eyeing forward of my subsequent go to! On this event, I opted for the wild boar ragu.

A number of mates had raved about this dish, and I rapidly understood why. The tagliatelle was nearly indistinguishable from conventional pasta, with its barely chewy texture and trace of saltiness. To today, I nonetheless dream concerning the tender, gamey meat, and wealthy tomato-based sauce.

Da Garibardi (€€) – Piazza del Mercato Centrale, 38R, 50123 Firenze FI, Italy – Open every single day from 11:00 am to 11:00 pm

Ristorante Hostaria Il Desco

Photograph credit score: Ristorante Hostaria Il Desco

Ristorante Hostaria Il Desco is simply a couple of streets again from the banks of the Arno River between Ponte Vecchio and Ponte Santa Trinita. If you happen to’re going gluten-free in Florence, this pleasant little hang-out deserves a spot in your itinerary.

I got here throughout Ristorante Hostaria Il Desco by probability, and I nonetheless can’t consider how lengthy it took me to search out this place. From the pleasant workers to the oh-so-elegant red-brick eating space, the environment right here is someplace between refined and understated.

With regards to the menu, it’s primarily a showcase of all issues Tuscany, gluten-free-style. The ribollita soup, Chianina beef, and veal all caught my eye, however none have been as intriguing to me because the spaghetti alla chitarra.

From the second I noticed the waiter coming over with this hearty portion of recent gluten-free pasta, I knew I used to be in for a deal with. Mixing succulent, briny shrimp, vibrant and creamy pesto, and gooey buttery burrata, this dish had a superbly balanced assortment of flavors.

Ristorante Hostaria Il Desco (€€) – Through delle Terme, 23/R, 50123 Firenze FI, Italy – Open every single day from 12:00 pm to three:00 pm and from 7:00 pm to 11:00 pm

Ristorante Quinoa

Photograph credit score: Ristorante Quinoa

Ristorante Quinoa isn’t simply among the best gluten-free Florence institutions; it’s additionally the oldest. Nestled midway between the Florence Duomo and the Basilica of Santa Maria Novella, this restaurant has been dishing up 100% gluten-free meals longer than anybody else within the metropolis.

As beautiful because the inexperienced and white aesthetic in the primary eating space is, I’m extra keen on the plant-clad courtyard. The terrace space was half-full, but the ambiance was so full of life.

I wasn’t within the temper for Italian meals on this specific day, so I used to be relieved to search out Asian grub with a ton of vegetarian and vegan dishes on the menu. As a staunch fan of Thai meals, I had my coronary heart set on inexperienced curry.

My waitress introduced me with a basket of gluten-free bread after I ordered, which was far crustier and softer than any I’d tried earlier than. This was the right warm-up to the steaming bowl of curry

Spicy with out being overpowering, the sauce was stuffed with citrussy and refreshing notes from the lime and lemongrass. Every hen chunk was juicy and lean, and the coconut milk gave the dish a contact of nuttiness that mellowed the warmth from the chilis.

Ristorante Quinoa (€€) – Vicolo di Santa Maria Maggiore, 1, 50123 Firenze FI, Italy – Open each Tuesday to Saturday from 12:00 pm to three:30 pm and from 7:00 pm to 10:30 pm and Sunday and Monday from 12:00 pm to three:30 pm

Mister Pizza

Mister Pizza is presumably probably the most beloved pizzeria amongst Florence’s gluten-free group. Their meatless and dairy-free pizzas have additionally proved in style in every of their two Florentine places, my favourite of which is located within the enchanting Santa Croce neighborhood.

Inside, Mister Pizza is quaint and colourful, with a inexperienced, orange, and yellow coloration scheme. The vibe right here feels informal and relaxed, and its far-reaching menu caters to pizza lovers with just about any kind of dietary requirement.

I got here right here with a buddy of mine who’d lately discovered he was celiac, and I used to be decided to search out him a pizza joint with high quality gluten-free fare. We have been peckish relatively than famished once we swung by, so we determined to separate a pizza with mozzarella, mushrooms, and black truffle cream.

After a few lackluster wheatless pizza bases up to now, I used to be pleasantly stunned by how agency and crunchy this dough was. Discovering an honest gluten-free base could be a problem, however this was as near the traditional style as I’d discovered.

All the toppings have been as scrumptious as I’d hoped. Whereas the floral mozzarella and punchy basil added lightness to every chew, the meaty porcini mushrooms and nutty black truffles gave the pizza extra intense undertones.

Mister Pizza (€) – Through Pietrapiana, 82r, 50122 Firenze FI, Italy – Open every single day from 12:00 pm to 4:00 am

Sgrano

Photograph credit score: Sgrano

So far as gluten-free bakeries go, it doesn’t get a lot better than Sgrano. This bustling spot, which additionally serves as a pizzeria, is situated close to Palazzo Vecchio. The crew behind Sgrano additionally runs a gluten-free osteria only a brief stroll away, which I’ve heard rave critiques about.

Cozy however fashionable, Sgrano mixes rustic decor with fashionable finishes. Sgrano’s darkish paneling and wood tables are brightened up by polished white chairs and modern hanging lighting fixtures.

I knew after I noticed the size of the menu I’d have a tough time selecting what to order. Quite a few favorites like bruschetta and gluten-free pizza have been obtainable, however I went for a Florentine staple and selected schiacciata full of Tuscan ham, pecorino, and zucchini.

As a lot as I loved the intense flavors of the ham and the way it paired with the sharp pecorino and grassy zucchini, the bread actually gained me over. Thinner and chewier than focaccia however no much less flavorful, the schiacciata was light-weight and had a delicate earthy tinge.

Sgrano (€€) – Through dei Neri, 49r, 50122 Firenze FI, Italy – Open every single day from 12:00 pm to 10:30 pm

Gelateria Santa Trinita

Photograph credit score: Gelateria Santa Trinita

Gelateria Santa Trinita in Santo Spirito is changing into my go-to gelato spot south of the Arno River. Since I noticed their gluten-free cones, I’ve advised this gelateria to my celiac mates. Whereas ice cream itself is free from gluten, discovering cones appropriate for celiacs might be tough.

What I really like about this specific gluten-free gelato hotspot is how spacious and ethereal it’s. With its excessive ceilings, wine-packed cabinets, and fridges stuffed with desserts, it’s bought a bit extra occurring than your common gelateria.

I’ve sampled each the usual and gluten-free cones, and there are hardly any variations between the 2. One factor I regularly battle with is deciding on a taste, however final time I used to be right here, I went for their signature mascarpone gelato.

The wheat-free cone was crispy and durable with a delicate, sugary style. As a lot as I used to be trying ahead to the mascarpone ice cream, I had no thought how indulgent and easy it will be. As a result of the flavors have been comparatively gentle, the Nutella added the correct amount of sweetness.

Gelateria Santa Trinita (€€) – Piazza de’ Frescobaldi, 11/pink, 50125 Firenze FI, Italy – Open 11:00 am to 12:00 am

Conclusion

Florence is extra appropriate than ever for wheatless guests with its devoted lineup of gluten-free institutions providing tasty non-gluten dishes.

You may see that the town’s gluten-free scene has exploded and is extra welcoming than ever to these with gluten intolerance or who’re merely following a eating regimen freed from gluten. In your subsequent go to to the Renaissance metropolis, don’t overlook to incorporate a couple of of those spots in your itinerary.