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Gluten-free schiacciata in Florence.

Gluten-free in Florence: some of the best restaurants and venues, combining tradition and innovation.

Eating gluten-free in Florence today is simple and, above all, safe. Alongside the great classics of Tuscan cuisine, the city offers 100% gluten-free restaurants, pizzerias with dedicated lines, pastry shops, and ice cream parlors that have made gluten-free care a true philosophy.

In this guide you will find a thoughtful selection of the best gluten-free restaurants and venues in Florence , from the most traditional to the most creative.

How to navigate the gluten-free world: the  AIC “Eating Out” program

In Italy, the quality of gluten-free options is supported by the Italian Celiac Association ( AIC) with the AFC – Eating Out program, which trains restaurant owners on procedures and contamination prevention. The official list of participating establishments is reserved for AIC members, but many Florentine restaurants advertise their membership and the practices they adopt on their websites. Always ask for confirmation and a gluten-free menu upon arrival.

 

100% gluten-free: from breakfast to dinner

Quinoa (Historic Center)
It was the first 100% gluten-free restaurant in the city (2014) and is a member of the AIC network. The menu combines Tuscan tradition with Eastern influences: ribollita, gluten-free burgers, bowls, and pizzas, all prepared in a dedicated space. Excellent for mixed groups: even non-celiacs will enjoy it.

Sgrano (Via dei Neri / Via dei Benci / street food)
A Florentine restaurant that's become a benchmark: gluten-free schiacciata , fresh handmade pasta , fried foods from the Aia, and Tuscan dishes reimagined with a GF twist. Osteria Sgrano on Via dei Benci is perfect for dinner; the Via dei Neri location is ideal for a quick lunch just steps from the Uffizi. The brand declares its participation in the AIC program.

Cortese Café (S. Maria Novella and Oltrarno)
Raw, vegan, organic, and 100% gluten-free pastries by chef Vito Cortese: raw croissants and desserts, single-serving treats, gelato, and light savory options in two scenic locations. Perfect for a gluten-free breakfast or an elegant afternoon snack.

Starbene Senza Glutine (bakery & market)
GF's historic store for bread, pastries, snacks, and packaged goods: a convenient stop for stocking up on gluten-free breakfasts and travel essentials . Check the official page for updates on locations and opening hours.

Artisan Taste Shop (Gavinana)
Outside the city center, a completely gluten-free bakery and café. Cakes made to order, savory leavened goods, and desserts are available from the counter. National Health Service vouchers are also available where applicable. Great for taking a safe supply back to your hotel.

Tradition marries modern protocols for “gluten-free”.

Trattoria da Garibardi (S. Lorenzo/Central Market)
A "substantial" trattoria with a gluten-free menu : ribollita, pappa al pomodoro, pasta, fried foods, and desserts available in GF versions, with procedures clearly communicated on the website. A perfect choice for those seeking gluten-free Tuscan cuisine in the city center.

Hostaria Il Desco (Old Bridge)
Since 1954, in the heart of Florence, it has offered regional cuisine with a wide selection of gluten-free options (including "important" first courses and gnocchi). An intimate atmosphere and a carefully curated wine list make for a traditional gluten-free dinner , just steps from the Arno River.

Lorenzo de' Medici Restaurant (S. Lorenzo)
A large restaurant and pizzeria, very convenient for groups and families. It offers a full menu , including gluten-free options, and clearly states its AIC membership on the official website. Plus, wood-fired pizza, including a GF version.

 

Gluten-Free Pizza: The Timeless Classics

Ciro & Sons (Via del Giglio)
A pizzeria and restaurant beloved by GF travelers: gluten-free dough , pasta, and desserts, with special attention to lactose and other dietary requirements. Historic dining room, expert service: a must for gluten-free pizza in Florence .

Mister Pizza (Duomo and other locations)
A local brand known for its gluten-free line and dedicated bakery advertising in its main locations: perfect for a last-minute pizza after museum visits, with alternative doughs and vegetarian options. Check the availability of the gluten-free line at your chosen location.

 

Ice cream (including a cone): the best places

Grom (Duomo – Via del Campanile)
The chain collaborates with the AIC (Italian Ice Cream Association) nationwide: gelato, cones, and toppings are gluten-free at participating gelato shops, with shared serving procedures. Ideal for a gluten-free gelato break in the city center.

 

One-day mini-itinerary: "Gluten-free Florence"

  • Lunch near the Uffizi: Sgrano (via dei Neri) for a GF schiacciata or fresh pasta; then a stroll toward the Duomo for a Grom ice cream cone.
  • Elegant snack: Cortese Café in Piazza S. Maria Novella for raw pastries and cappuccino.
  • Typical Tuscan dinner: Da Garibardi (traditional dishes in a gluten-free version) or Il Desco (regional cuisine with a wide selection of gluten-free options).
  • Pizza night (alternatively): Ciro & Sons or Mister Pizza for GF dough in the city center.

 

Practical tips for traveling and eating gluten-free in Florence

  1. Book the most popular places (Quinoa, Ciro & Sons, Garibardi) and immediately indicate your GF needs. Many restaurants have dedicated menus .
  2. Ask about fryers and separate lines for fried foods and pizzas: reputable establishments will tell you this spontaneously; in pizzerias, check if they have an oven or dedicated area .
  3. Trust the AIC : the AFC program is the Italian standard; if you're a member, use the updated list and the app to check memberships and updates.
  4. Stock up smart : a stop at Starbene or Bottega Artigiana del Gusto is the perfect solution for breakfast and snacks for day trips.

 

Florence is a top-notch celiac-friendly destination: you can sit down in a trattoria and order traditional Tuscan dishes in gluten-free versions, choose pizzerias with dedicated lines and ovens, have breakfast or a snack in 100% GF pastry shops, and indulge in a gluten-free gelato cone just steps from the Duomo. Create your itinerary by blending tradition and innovation: Quinoa e Sgrano for the "totally GF" soul; Garibardi, Il Desco, and Lorenzo de' Medici for classic Tuscan fare; Ciro & Sons and Mister Pizza for pizza; Cortese, Starbene, and Bottega Artigiana del Gusto for desserts and bread. With a focus on the best practices of the AIC – Alimentazione Fuori Casa (Food Outside the Home Association) and a few targeted reservations, your gourmet trip to Florence will be worry-free.

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