The low-carb foodie guide to Florence, Italy

Just the sheer mention of Italian cuisine conjures images of overflowing bowls of pasta and gigantic stone-baked pizzas, but all Italian food isn't heavy on the carbs. In fact, foodies who practice low-carb living will find plenty of authentic, high-quality, low-carb Tuscan eats when visiting Florence.

Contrary to popular belief, many of the city’s signature dishes have nothing to do with pasta. In fact, the area's most renowned menu item is bistecca alla fiorentina, an Italian-style T-bone steak that is high in protein and low in carbs.

In addition to steak, Caprese salad, organ meats, prosciutto and fresh veggies are staple menu items found at many traditional restaurants. The city is also overflowing with plenty of low-carb options too, and foodies will find some of the best dishes at the following hotspots: 
 

Ristorante Quinoa

Vicolo di Santa Maria Maggiore, 1, 50123, Firenze FI, Italy

This gluten-free restaurant is located between the Basilica Di San Lorenzo and the Piazza della Repubblica. The restaurant first opened its doors in 2014 and is the only restaurant in the city that is 100% gluten free.

Ristorante Quinoa is immersed in an urban vegetable garden, so courtyard dining is popular. Inside, the interior is chic and trendy and there are plenty of vegan and gluten-free options on the menu to choose from. Each dish is prepared with fresh ingredients and packed with plenty of flavor. However, the menu offering changes daily so be sure to check out the offerings in advance before you visit.

Il Santo Bevitore

Via Santo Spirito, 64r, 50125, Firenze FI, Italy
 

Another Florentine find that focuses on sourcing fresh, local ingredients is Il Santo Bevitore. Its much-loved menu presents low-carb lovers with a wide selection of Mediterranean fare such as fish, meats and vegetables

Located on the Arno River, the atmosphere is friendly and casual, and the interior boasts a contemporary decor that feels both warm and inviting. However, tables fill up quickly, so reservations are recommended.

I'Tuscani 2

Piazza di S. Pancrazio, 2r, 50125, Firenze FI, Italy

Located in a colorful dining room, I'Tuscani 2 is arguably one of the best places to enjoy a low-carb meal in Florence. This rustic style restaurant specializes in platters of steak and grilled vegetables. Meat lovers will appreciate the variety of cured meats on the menu, from beef tenderloin steak to mixed grilled meat and hamburgers.

A firm favorite among both tourists and locals, I'Tuscani 2 is the perfect place to enjoy low-carb Tuscan cuisine in a cozy and relaxed atmosphere. But, again due to the restaurant’s popularity, tables tend to fill up quickly, so reservations are recommended.  

Ristorante Del Fagioli

Corso dei Tintori, 47-red, 50122, Firenze FI, Italy
 

Food connoisseurs in search of traditional Tuscan fare head to Ristorante Del Fagioli, one of the oldest restaurants in Florence. Although the restaurant's name means ‘beans’, the carb-heavy legumes are far from the only thing on the menu. The eatery is a popular place to enjoy a traditional Florentine steak, fresh off the grill. The restaurant also serves up a tempting selection of fish dishes and bruschetta.

When you arrive, you’ll be greeted by the warm and friendly staff who will seat you to your table. Inside you’ll find wood-panelled dining rooms and daily specials hung above the restaurant on a blackboard. If you don’t have a reservation booked, you can still find a table, though it’s best to visit early before the restaurant fills up.

Osteria Tripperia Il Magazzino

Piazza della Passera, 2, 50125, Firenze FI, Italy
 

Osteria Tripperia Il Magazzino is another Tuscan classic, serving up a range of tripe dishes and homemade-style ragù. Each dish is freshly prepared and is served among a dining room featuring a rustic brick-style backdrop.  

Low carb organ meat is a staple here and the menu features signature dishes such as lampredotto (tripe boiled with carrots and herbs) and trippa alla fiorentina (a tripe and tomato dish). But don’t worry if you aren’t a fan of offal, you can opt for the menu's other protein-laden, low-carb options instead.

5ecinque

Piazza della Passera, 1, 50125, Firenze FI, Italy

Although meat dishes are some of the more popular low-carb options in Florence, vegetarian gourmands fear not. Head to 5ecinque, in Piazza della Passera, for lighter menu options that are also vegetarian. Because the menu leans to the vegetarian side, diners will find plenty of refined meat-free dishes from salads to veggie couscous, available for both lunch and dinner.

The restaurant also serves up a variety of Mediterranean dishes for those looking for something a little different. Just be aware that the menu changes daily, but all the ingredients are sourced from the local region.

Brac

Via dei Vagellai, 18/R, 50122, Firenze FI, Italy

Located in the heart of the historical center, just a three-minute walk from Museo Galileo, Brac is a hidden gem. In fact, you can walk right in front of the restaurant and not even notice it, so it may take a bit of searching to find. One of the unique draws about Brac is that not only is it a vegetarian restaurant, it’s also a bookshop, coffee shop and makes the perfection location for a solo dinner or a romantic meal for two.

As soon as you enter, you’ll be welcomed by a warm and friendly atmosphere and the staff will be on hand to take your order. Everything on the menu is vegetarian and each dish is prepared with only the freshest of ingredients, such as a calzone bursting with ricotta and oh-so-ripe tomatoes.
 

ORA

Via S. Zanobi, 126R, 50129, Firenze FI, Italy

This organic-style restaurant prides itself on healthy eating without sacrificing on the flavors of good food. Its menu features a selection of organic dishes, prepared with seasonal fruit and vegetables. ORA also serves as a safe space for those who want to eat alone, in a relaxed and casual environment.

This charming gem is located just a few minutes from the bustling tourist area and when you arrive the servers will be on hand to assist to your every need.

Do you have your own favorite Florence eateries for low-carb eating? Head to our Facebook page and let us know which Italian restaurants are on your must-visit list.